Raising money for your startup can feel daunting – especially if it’s your first time.
The good news is that countless founders have walked this path, and we can learn from their experiences. In this friendly but analytical guide, we’ll break down how to fundraise as a first-time founder, drawing on insights from legendary entrepreneurs/investors like Marc Andreessen, Sam Altman, and Peter Thiel.
We’ll also cover modern strategies (from SAFE notes to accelerators) and how the 2024–2025 funding climate has changed compared to a decade ago. Let’s dive in!



