Resources for founders
Resources, guides and explainers to help founders move forward.
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Why Is A Cap Table Audit Essential for Your Startup?

Audits help startups prepare for investments, stay compliant, and make informed decisions, ensuring transparency and trust within the ecosystem.

Abiola Seriki
April 3, 2024
April 3, 2024
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Demystifying Equity: 48 Key Equity Terms Every Startup Stakeholder Should Know

Decode equity essentials for African startups with our simplified list of 48 common terms and relatable examples.

Abiola Seriki
March 27, 2024
March 27, 2024
Fundraising
All Posts

5 Tips to Raise Debt & Equity in Multiple Entities

In this post, we discuss the challenges of raising capital for companies structured with multiple entities and offer guidance on navigating such scenarios.

Abiola Seriki
March 21, 2024
March 21, 2024
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 8- A quick glance into Priced Rounds and SAFE Rounds

This article provides a brief overview of Priced Rounds and SAFE Rounds for fintech founders, outlining key elements in each funding method and underscoring the importance of open communication to align expectations.

Abiola Seriki
March 13, 2024
March 13, 2024
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

A Roadmap to Early-Stage Growth: Mastering Venture Debt for African Startups

In this guide, discover how venture debt preserves equity, offers flexible capital utilization, and extends the financial runway for seed and pre-seed startups.

Abiola Seriki
February 25, 2024
February 25, 2024
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingForBella: Part 7- Comprehensive Strategies for African Founders in the Face of Currency Volatility

Currency volatility poses challenges for African startups, prompting a need for comprehensive strategies. Integrating these approaches fortifies startups, fostering sustained growth in the dynamic African business landscape.

Abiola Seriki
February 25, 2024
February 25, 2024
Fundraising
All Posts

A Short Guide to Building Your Startup's Scenario Model!

Scenario modeling for startups isn't just number-crunching; it's a strategic compass for growth. By anticipating various scenarios – best-case, worst-case, and everything in between – founders gain insights that go beyond traditional forecasting.

Abiola Seriki
February 16, 2024
February 16, 2024
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Building to Scale: How Raise Equity Management Tools Propel Kenyan Startups in FinTech, Health Tech, and E-commerce

This article explores how such tools, designed for specific sectors, play a crucial role in navigating the unique equity managment challenges of the Kenyan market.

Abiola Seriki
February 16, 2024
February 16, 2024
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Scaling: Navigating South African Startup Success with Raise Equity Management Tools & Services

Navigate local landscapes effortlessly in Rand, ensure B-BBEE compliance, and gain insights for key industries.

Abiola Seriki
February 13, 2024
February 13, 2024
Stock Options and Vesting
All Posts

A Comprehensive Guide to Early Exercise Stock Options for African Startups

This guide explores stock options intricacies, emphasizing factors influencing African startups to permit early exercise

Abiola Seriki
February 5, 2024
February 5, 2024
Valuations
All Posts

A Deep Dive into Valuation 409A for Startups

Valuation 409A is vital for equity-based compensation. Originating in the U.S., it prevents undervalued stock options, crucial for tax transparency.

Abiola Seriki
February 1, 2024
February 1, 2024
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingForBella (Part 6): Laying the Foundation: Setting Up Your Company for Success

The sixth article centers on comprehending legal structures and regulations in Africa. It offers crucial guidance for building a solid foundation essential for long-term success in the startup ecosystem.

Abiola Seriki
January 22, 2024
January 22, 2024
Valuations
All Posts

🌍 A Short Guide on How Valuation Impacts Investor Relations

Launching your startup in Africa? Learn how to build a solid valuation with Raise's tools tailored for the African market.

Abiola Seriki
January 15, 2024
January 15, 2024
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 5- Innovating for Sustainable Impact.

In the latest installment of our series on Bella's entrepreneurial journey, we explore how she not only navigated challenges for business growth but also harnessed innovation to create a positive impact on society and the environment.

Abiola Seriki
December 1, 2023
December 1, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

Getting Ready for Fundraising in 2024: A Guide for African Startups

Get prepared for fundraising in 202. Focus on building a strong business plan and team, adhere to rules, and community impact, and adopt Raise's tailored Equity Clinic services for comprehensive legal and financial support.

Abiola Seriki
December 1, 2023
December 1, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

How We Stay Organized- Michelle Ruiz, IQPAY

In our fourth “How We Stay Organized” spotlight series, IQPAY's founder, Michelle Ruiz gives us an insight into the company and how Raise has helped them grow.

Abiola Seriki
October 27, 2023
October 27, 2023
Valuations
All Posts

A Guide to Valuations for Early-Stage African Startups

Understanding how much your African startup is worth is vital for attracting investors, making smart decisions, and preserving your ownership. Different valuation methods help early-stage founders find the right price tag for their businesses.

Abiola Seriki
October 26, 2023
October 26, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 4- Tackling Challenges & Opportunities for Growth

In the fourth part of the series, Bella grapples with challenges such as securing funding, market-specific strategies, talent retention, and technology adoption while seizing opportunities through collaborations to scale her African startup.

Abiola Seriki
October 23, 2023
October 23, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

How We Stay Organized- Adebayo Juwon, Finna Protocol

In our third “How We Stay Organized” spotlight series, Finna Protocol’s co-founder Adebayo Juwon discusses using Raise for Equity Management and Valuation services.

Abiola Seriki
October 10, 2023
October 10, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

How to navigate the 2023 funding landscape and prepare for your next round.

In this article, we discuss the 2023 funding challenges faced by African startups, highlighting the need for effective navigation of the funding landscape.

Abiola Seriki
October 10, 2023
October 10, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 3-Securing Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations to Fuel Growth.

In part three, Bella focuses on strategic partnerships to fuel her startup's growth. She recognizes the significance of quality partnerships, emphasizing trust, diversity, and starting small to achieve big dreams.

Abiola Seriki
September 15, 2023
September 15, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Introducing 'Calculator': Putting the Power of Forecasting in Your Hands

Raise introduces "Calculator," a scenario modeling tool for African startups, simplifying equity planning, offering insights into financing, and benefiting both startups and investors in key African markets.

Abiola Seriki
September 11, 2023
September 11, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

How We Stay Organized- Abiola Shogbeni, Shiga Digital

In our second “How We Stay Organized” spotlight series, Shiga Digital’s founder Abiola Shogbeni discusses using Raise for managing cap tables, providing Equity Clinic services, and streamlining corporate governance.

Abiola Seriki
August 30, 2023
August 30, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 2-Navigating the Equity Journey through Regulatory Compliance

Bella prioritized transparency for investor attraction and explored regulatory compliance's significance. Despite challenges, she sought legal guidance, tools to proactively embrace compliance for trust-building, investor appeal, & growth.

Abiola Seriki
August 16, 2023
August 16, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

#BuildingForBella: Part 1-Boosting Investor Confidence in African Startups through Transparent Ownership Structures

Bella tackles funding challenges for her startup due to transparency and governance concerns. Embracing openness, financial clarity & robust governance, she paves the way for her vision of transforming African financial services.

Abiola Seriki
August 8, 2023
August 8, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

How We Stay Organized- Eric Annan, Aya

In our "How We Stay Organized" spotlight series, Aya's founder Eric Annan discusses usingRaise for managing cap tables, providing Equity Clinic services, and streamlining corporate governance.

Abiola Seriki
August 2, 2023
August 2, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Dissecting the Role of an Equity Management Tool for African Startups

In this article, we provide a comprehensive understanding of how an equity management tool can empower African entrepreneurs to navigate their equity journey effectively.

Abiola Seriki
July 18, 2023
July 18, 2023
Valuations
All Posts

Importance of Global Benchmark Standards for African Startup Valuations

In this article, we will explore the importance of a global benchmark standard for African companies seeking to conduct valuations.

Abiola Seriki
July 14, 2023
July 14, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

9 Reasons why you should care about the Kenyan Finance Act 2023

A comprehensive exploration of the far-reaching implications of the Kenyan Finance Act, 2023. In this article, we delve into the implications and present nine compelling reasons why you should pay attention to the Kenyan Finance Act, 2023.

Leon Ndekei
July 14, 2023
July 14, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

6 Financial Modelling Tips for African Startup Founders

Below are six financial modeling tips for starting a new business.

Abiola Seriki
June 15, 2023
June 15, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

7 ways to navigate the African Startup Ecosystem as a first-time founder

Below are the seven ways to navigate the African Startup Ecosystem as a first-time founder.

Abiola Seriki
June 15, 2023
June 15, 2023
Stock Options and Vesting
All Posts

Equity Allocation and Vesting: Best Practices for African Startup Founders

By following best practices in equity management, African founders can attract top talent, promote ownership culture, and ensure sustainable growth.

Abiola Seriki
May 18, 2023
May 18, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Equity Compensation: How African Startups Can Attract and Keep Great Employees

In the competitive world of African startups, it's important to attract and retain talented employees for long-term success. By offering employees a share in the company, startups can align their interests and create a sense of ownership.

Abiola Seriki
May 18, 2023
May 18, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

4 Reasons Why African FinTech’s Need Effective Equity Structures

African Fintech industry is growing, but venture capital investment has declined in 2023. Proper equity structure is essential for fintech businesses in Africa for various reasons.

Lisa Illingworth
April 24, 2023
April 24, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

5 Reasons Why Compliance Is Important For Every Startup

Compliance helps startups operate smoothly and secure its future success. Here are five core reasons why compliance is imperative for every startup.

Abiola Seriki
April 17, 2023
April 17, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Unlocking Growth: Understanding Market Cap in the African Startup Ecosystem

Market cap can be an indicator of success and investor interest, but it's not the only metric that matters, especially as African markets are still underdeveloped and less formal.‍

Abiola Seriki
April 17, 2023
April 17, 2023
Fundraising
Valuations
All Posts

The Art Of Start-Up Valuation: Best Practices For Successful Outcomes

Valuation is an essential step in the fundraising process for any start-up, as it helps founders and investors to make informed decisions regarding investment and growth strategies. However, start-up valuation can be complex and may be problematic in the future if not done accurately and consistently.

Chinenye Nwigwe
March 20, 2023
March 20, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

Structuring the Perfect Pitch

The perfect pitch really does exist but don’t think that you are going to walk in front of potential partners or investors and sway them in your direction without putting in the time to craft something truly remarkable. Here are 5 tips when structuring what could be the key to your business success.

Lisa Illingworth
February 13, 2023
February 13, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

6 Reasons Why Equity Management Is Essential For Startups

Managing the ownership structure of a startup is known as equity management and it encompasses a range of activities such as raising capital, issuing shares, and determining the value of the company.

Abiola Seriki
February 8, 2023
February 8, 2023
Cap Tables and Equity
Stock Options & Vesting
All Posts

Managing share dilution as a first-time founder

A major concern for many first-time founders is share dilution, which is the reduction in the value of an individual's ownership stake in a company. Share dilution often occurs when a company raises capital through the issuance of new shares, which decreases the percentage of ownership that existing shareholders hold.

Abiola Seriki
January 30, 2023
January 30, 2023
Fundraising
All Posts

Fundraising 101 For First-Time Founders

As a first-time founder, fundraising can be demoralizing, however, the task becomes an easy one to face when you select an appropriate approach to tackle it. In this article, we have outlined some fundraising tips that first-time founders can implement when trying to secure funding for their businesses.

Abiola Seriki
January 16, 2023
January 16, 2023
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

What is Scenario Modeling?

Decision makers usually create hypothetical scenarios of events and then analyze the various outcomes of each scenario. Doing this helps the decision maker to have an overview of the likely impact of a course of action, the potential consequences, risks or rewards of taking an action and also help to plan for contingencies.

Abiola Seriki
December 13, 2022
December 13, 2022
Stock Options and Vesting
All Posts

5 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Issuing Stock Options

ESOPs are a great way to attract and retain the best talents in a startup at the earliest stages when the business is yet to be profitable or cannot effectively pay the talent standard rates. Though a great offer, it might become challenging in the long run if some costly mistakes aren't avoided.

Abiola Seriki
December 7, 2022
December 7, 2022
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

4 Tips for Raising Pre-Seed Funding

At the very early stage of a startup, funding is the most critical requirement for growth. Funding is needed to build, operate and scale the business from scratch. Without funding, the probability of a business moving from a product/service development phase to the market is highly unrealistic. In this article, we highlight four major tips every founder needs to know to raise pre-seed funding.

Abiola Seriki
November 21, 2022
November 21, 2022
Fundraising
Valuations
All Posts

Understanding Pre-Money Valuation

Investors want to know the value of a company before investing. In mature businesses, the valuation has hard facts and figures driven by the stream of revenue. The valuation of pre-revenue businesses is challenging as there are no figures or data.

Abiola Seriki
November 9, 2022
November 9, 2022
Fundraising
All Posts

How to Raise Funds in 4 Easy Steps

Once your startup is investment-ready, the next item is to begin fundraising. It’s often a challenging process and might yield positive or negative responses depending on the success of the strategy.

Abiola Seriki
October 27, 2022
October 27, 2022
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

How to draft an Investor Update

Investor updates are documents that help communicate key business growth needed to share to the investor to solidify your business relationship, gain more trust from the investors and also help you attract potential investors in your company.

Abiola Seriki
October 20, 2022
October 20, 2022
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
Stock Options & Vesting
All Posts

How to choose the right investor for your startup

A wrong investor at the early stage of the business is most likely to have adverse effects on the growth of the business. As a founder, it’s important to leverage solid relationships and networks when selecting an early-stage investor in your company.

Abiola Seriki
September 24, 2022
September 24, 2022
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
Stock Options & Vesting
All Posts

How To Sell Equity Responsibly

Startups can raise equity capital through investors/venture capitalists. Once raised, the ownership of the company becomes diluted. Founders need to understand how to sell equity so that they do not mistakenly sell their entire company.

Abiola Seriki
September 8, 2022
September 8, 2022
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

6 Strategies To Hire & Retain Top Talent At A Growing Startup‍

Retaining employees at early stages saves money and time that would have been spent on hiring. The inability to retain talents can often create a setback and also negatively affect the dynamic work relationship that already exists among the team.

Abiola Seriki
August 25, 2022
August 25, 2022
Fundraising
All Posts

Growth Tips For Early-Stage Startups

Investors are concerned about potential for rapid growth and high-future earnings. Before investing; gathering insights from consumer interactions and use data to build and develop a solid foundation for growth at this early stage.

Abiola Seriki
August 8, 2022
August 8, 2022
Fundraising
All Posts

What makes a startup investment-ready?

Investors are concerned about their return on investment. Identifying the right investors, telling a convincing narrative and getting an investor to commit are among the top things that help a business scale and can also boost a founder's confidence.

Abiola Seriki
July 25, 2022
July 25, 2022
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Why Is A Cap Table Audit Essential for Your Startup?

Audits help startups prepare for investments, stay compliant, and make informed decisions, ensuring transparency and trust within the ecosystem.

April 3, 2024
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Demystifying Equity: 48 Key Equity Terms Every Startup Stakeholder Should Know

Decode equity essentials for African startups with our simplified list of 48 common terms and relatable examples.

March 27, 2024
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

5 Tips to Raise Debt & Equity in Multiple Entities

In this post, we discuss the challenges of raising capital for companies structured with multiple entities and offer guidance on navigating such scenarios.

March 21, 2024
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 8- A quick glance into Priced Rounds and SAFE Rounds

This article provides a brief overview of Priced Rounds and SAFE Rounds for fintech founders, outlining key elements in each funding method and underscoring the importance of open communication to align expectations.

March 13, 2024
link to "current" page
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

A Roadmap to Early-Stage Growth: Mastering Venture Debt for African Startups

In this guide, discover how venture debt preserves equity, offers flexible capital utilization, and extends the financial runway for seed and pre-seed startups.

February 25, 2024
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingForBella: Part 7- Comprehensive Strategies for African Founders in the Face of Currency Volatility

Currency volatility poses challenges for African startups, prompting a need for comprehensive strategies. Integrating these approaches fortifies startups, fostering sustained growth in the dynamic African business landscape.

February 25, 2024
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

A Short Guide to Building Your Startup's Scenario Model!

Scenario modeling for startups isn't just number-crunching; it's a strategic compass for growth. By anticipating various scenarios – best-case, worst-case, and everything in between – founders gain insights that go beyond traditional forecasting.

February 16, 2024
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Building to Scale: How Raise Equity Management Tools Propel Kenyan Startups in FinTech, Health Tech, and E-commerce

This article explores how such tools, designed for specific sectors, play a crucial role in navigating the unique equity managment challenges of the Kenyan market.

February 16, 2024
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Scaling: Navigating South African Startup Success with Raise Equity Management Tools & Services

Navigate local landscapes effortlessly in Rand, ensure B-BBEE compliance, and gain insights for key industries.

February 13, 2024
link to "current" page
Stock Options and Vesting
All Posts

A Comprehensive Guide to Early Exercise Stock Options for African Startups

This guide explores stock options intricacies, emphasizing factors influencing African startups to permit early exercise

February 5, 2024
link to "current" page
Valuations
All Posts

A Deep Dive into Valuation 409A for Startups

Valuation 409A is vital for equity-based compensation. Originating in the U.S., it prevents undervalued stock options, crucial for tax transparency.

February 1, 2024
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingForBella (Part 6): Laying the Foundation: Setting Up Your Company for Success

The sixth article centers on comprehending legal structures and regulations in Africa. It offers crucial guidance for building a solid foundation essential for long-term success in the startup ecosystem.

January 22, 2024
link to "current" page
Valuations
All Posts

🌍 A Short Guide on How Valuation Impacts Investor Relations

Launching your startup in Africa? Learn how to build a solid valuation with Raise's tools tailored for the African market.

January 15, 2024
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 5- Innovating for Sustainable Impact.

In the latest installment of our series on Bella's entrepreneurial journey, we explore how she not only navigated challenges for business growth but also harnessed innovation to create a positive impact on society and the environment.

December 1, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

Getting Ready for Fundraising in 2024: A Guide for African Startups

Get prepared for fundraising in 202. Focus on building a strong business plan and team, adhere to rules, and community impact, and adopt Raise's tailored Equity Clinic services for comprehensive legal and financial support.

December 1, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

How We Stay Organized- Michelle Ruiz, IQPAY

In our fourth “How We Stay Organized” spotlight series, IQPAY's founder, Michelle Ruiz gives us an insight into the company and how Raise has helped them grow.

October 27, 2023
link to "current" page
Valuations
All Posts

A Guide to Valuations for Early-Stage African Startups

Understanding how much your African startup is worth is vital for attracting investors, making smart decisions, and preserving your ownership. Different valuation methods help early-stage founders find the right price tag for their businesses.

October 26, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 4- Tackling Challenges & Opportunities for Growth

In the fourth part of the series, Bella grapples with challenges such as securing funding, market-specific strategies, talent retention, and technology adoption while seizing opportunities through collaborations to scale her African startup.

October 23, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

How We Stay Organized- Adebayo Juwon, Finna Protocol

In our third “How We Stay Organized” spotlight series, Finna Protocol’s co-founder Adebayo Juwon discusses using Raise for Equity Management and Valuation services.

October 10, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

How to navigate the 2023 funding landscape and prepare for your next round.

In this article, we discuss the 2023 funding challenges faced by African startups, highlighting the need for effective navigation of the funding landscape.

October 10, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 3-Securing Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations to Fuel Growth.

In part three, Bella focuses on strategic partnerships to fuel her startup's growth. She recognizes the significance of quality partnerships, emphasizing trust, diversity, and starting small to achieve big dreams.

September 15, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Introducing 'Calculator': Putting the Power of Forecasting in Your Hands

Raise introduces "Calculator," a scenario modeling tool for African startups, simplifying equity planning, offering insights into financing, and benefiting both startups and investors in key African markets.

September 11, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

How We Stay Organized- Abiola Shogbeni, Shiga Digital

In our second “How We Stay Organized” spotlight series, Shiga Digital’s founder Abiola Shogbeni discusses using Raise for managing cap tables, providing Equity Clinic services, and streamlining corporate governance.

August 30, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

#BuildingforBella: Part 2-Navigating the Equity Journey through Regulatory Compliance

Bella prioritized transparency for investor attraction and explored regulatory compliance's significance. Despite challenges, she sought legal guidance, tools to proactively embrace compliance for trust-building, investor appeal, & growth.

August 16, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

#BuildingForBella: Part 1-Boosting Investor Confidence in African Startups through Transparent Ownership Structures

Bella tackles funding challenges for her startup due to transparency and governance concerns. Embracing openness, financial clarity & robust governance, she paves the way for her vision of transforming African financial services.

August 8, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

How We Stay Organized- Eric Annan, Aya

In our "How We Stay Organized" spotlight series, Aya's founder Eric Annan discusses usingRaise for managing cap tables, providing Equity Clinic services, and streamlining corporate governance.

August 2, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Dissecting the Role of an Equity Management Tool for African Startups

In this article, we provide a comprehensive understanding of how an equity management tool can empower African entrepreneurs to navigate their equity journey effectively.

July 18, 2023
link to "current" page
Valuations
All Posts

Importance of Global Benchmark Standards for African Startup Valuations

In this article, we will explore the importance of a global benchmark standard for African companies seeking to conduct valuations.

July 14, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

9 Reasons why you should care about the Kenyan Finance Act 2023

A comprehensive exploration of the far-reaching implications of the Kenyan Finance Act, 2023. In this article, we delve into the implications and present nine compelling reasons why you should pay attention to the Kenyan Finance Act, 2023.

July 14, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

6 Financial Modelling Tips for African Startup Founders

Below are six financial modeling tips for starting a new business.

June 15, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

7 ways to navigate the African Startup Ecosystem as a first-time founder

Below are the seven ways to navigate the African Startup Ecosystem as a first-time founder.

June 15, 2023
link to "current" page
Stock Options and Vesting
All Posts

Equity Allocation and Vesting: Best Practices for African Startup Founders

By following best practices in equity management, African founders can attract top talent, promote ownership culture, and ensure sustainable growth.

May 18, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Equity Compensation: How African Startups Can Attract and Keep Great Employees

In the competitive world of African startups, it's important to attract and retain talented employees for long-term success. By offering employees a share in the company, startups can align their interests and create a sense of ownership.

May 18, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

4 Reasons Why African FinTech’s Need Effective Equity Structures

African Fintech industry is growing, but venture capital investment has declined in 2023. Proper equity structure is essential for fintech businesses in Africa for various reasons.

April 24, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

5 Reasons Why Compliance Is Important For Every Startup

Compliance helps startups operate smoothly and secure its future success. Here are five core reasons why compliance is imperative for every startup.

April 17, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

Unlocking Growth: Understanding Market Cap in the African Startup Ecosystem

Market cap can be an indicator of success and investor interest, but it's not the only metric that matters, especially as African markets are still underdeveloped and less formal.‍

April 17, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
Valuations
All Posts

The Art Of Start-Up Valuation: Best Practices For Successful Outcomes

Valuation is an essential step in the fundraising process for any start-up, as it helps founders and investors to make informed decisions regarding investment and growth strategies. However, start-up valuation can be complex and may be problematic in the future if not done accurately and consistently.

March 20, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

Structuring the Perfect Pitch

The perfect pitch really does exist but don’t think that you are going to walk in front of potential partners or investors and sway them in your direction without putting in the time to craft something truly remarkable. Here are 5 tips when structuring what could be the key to your business success.

February 13, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
All Posts

6 Reasons Why Equity Management Is Essential For Startups

Managing the ownership structure of a startup is known as equity management and it encompasses a range of activities such as raising capital, issuing shares, and determining the value of the company.

February 8, 2023
link to "current" page
Cap Tables and Equity
Stock Options & Vesting
All Posts

Managing share dilution as a first-time founder

A major concern for many first-time founders is share dilution, which is the reduction in the value of an individual's ownership stake in a company. Share dilution often occurs when a company raises capital through the issuance of new shares, which decreases the percentage of ownership that existing shareholders hold.

January 30, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

Fundraising 101 For First-Time Founders

As a first-time founder, fundraising can be demoralizing, however, the task becomes an easy one to face when you select an appropriate approach to tackle it. In this article, we have outlined some fundraising tips that first-time founders can implement when trying to secure funding for their businesses.

January 16, 2023
link to "current" page
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

What is Scenario Modeling?

Decision makers usually create hypothetical scenarios of events and then analyze the various outcomes of each scenario. Doing this helps the decision maker to have an overview of the likely impact of a course of action, the potential consequences, risks or rewards of taking an action and also help to plan for contingencies.

December 13, 2022
link to "current" page
Stock Options and Vesting
All Posts

5 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Issuing Stock Options

ESOPs are a great way to attract and retain the best talents in a startup at the earliest stages when the business is yet to be profitable or cannot effectively pay the talent standard rates. Though a great offer, it might become challenging in the long run if some costly mistakes aren't avoided.

December 7, 2022
link to "current" page
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

4 Tips for Raising Pre-Seed Funding

At the very early stage of a startup, funding is the most critical requirement for growth. Funding is needed to build, operate and scale the business from scratch. Without funding, the probability of a business moving from a product/service development phase to the market is highly unrealistic. In this article, we highlight four major tips every founder needs to know to raise pre-seed funding.

November 21, 2022
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Fundraising
Valuations
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Understanding Pre-Money Valuation

Investors want to know the value of a company before investing. In mature businesses, the valuation has hard facts and figures driven by the stream of revenue. The valuation of pre-revenue businesses is challenging as there are no figures or data.

November 9, 2022
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Fundraising
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How to Raise Funds in 4 Easy Steps

Once your startup is investment-ready, the next item is to begin fundraising. It’s often a challenging process and might yield positive or negative responses depending on the success of the strategy.

October 27, 2022
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Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
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How to draft an Investor Update

Investor updates are documents that help communicate key business growth needed to share to the investor to solidify your business relationship, gain more trust from the investors and also help you attract potential investors in your company.

October 20, 2022
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Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
Stock Options & Vesting
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How to choose the right investor for your startup

A wrong investor at the early stage of the business is most likely to have adverse effects on the growth of the business. As a founder, it’s important to leverage solid relationships and networks when selecting an early-stage investor in your company.

September 24, 2022
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Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
Stock Options & Vesting
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How To Sell Equity Responsibly

Startups can raise equity capital through investors/venture capitalists. Once raised, the ownership of the company becomes diluted. Founders need to understand how to sell equity so that they do not mistakenly sell their entire company.

September 8, 2022
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Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

6 Strategies To Hire & Retain Top Talent At A Growing Startup‍

Retaining employees at early stages saves money and time that would have been spent on hiring. The inability to retain talents can often create a setback and also negatively affect the dynamic work relationship that already exists among the team.

August 25, 2022
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Fundraising
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Growth Tips For Early-Stage Startups

Investors are concerned about potential for rapid growth and high-future earnings. Before investing; gathering insights from consumer interactions and use data to build and develop a solid foundation for growth at this early stage.

August 8, 2022
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Fundraising
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What makes a startup investment-ready?

Investors are concerned about their return on investment. Identifying the right investors, telling a convincing narrative and getting an investor to commit are among the top things that help a business scale and can also boost a founder's confidence.

July 25, 2022
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Cap Tables and Equity
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Why Is A Cap Table Audit Essential for Your Startup?

Audits help startups prepare for investments, stay compliant, and make informed decisions, ensuring transparency and trust within the ecosystem.

April 3, 2024
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Demystifying Equity: 48 Key Equity Terms Every Startup Stakeholder Should Know

Decode equity essentials for African startups with our simplified list of 48 common terms and relatable examples.

March 27, 2024
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5 Tips to Raise Debt & Equity in Multiple Entities

In this post, we discuss the challenges of raising capital for companies structured with multiple entities and offer guidance on navigating such scenarios.

March 21, 2024
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#BuildingforBella: Part 8- A quick glance into Priced Rounds and SAFE Rounds

This article provides a brief overview of Priced Rounds and SAFE Rounds for fintech founders, outlining key elements in each funding method and underscoring the importance of open communication to align expectations.

March 13, 2024
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A Roadmap to Early-Stage Growth: Mastering Venture Debt for African Startups

In this guide, discover how venture debt preserves equity, offers flexible capital utilization, and extends the financial runway for seed and pre-seed startups.

February 25, 2024
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#BuildingForBella: Part 7- Comprehensive Strategies for African Founders in the Face of Currency Volatility

Currency volatility poses challenges for African startups, prompting a need for comprehensive strategies. Integrating these approaches fortifies startups, fostering sustained growth in the dynamic African business landscape.

February 25, 2024
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A Short Guide to Building Your Startup's Scenario Model!

Scenario modeling for startups isn't just number-crunching; it's a strategic compass for growth. By anticipating various scenarios – best-case, worst-case, and everything in between – founders gain insights that go beyond traditional forecasting.

February 16, 2024
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Building to Scale: How Raise Equity Management Tools Propel Kenyan Startups in FinTech, Health Tech, and E-commerce

This article explores how such tools, designed for specific sectors, play a crucial role in navigating the unique equity managment challenges of the Kenyan market.

February 16, 2024
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Scaling: Navigating South African Startup Success with Raise Equity Management Tools & Services

Navigate local landscapes effortlessly in Rand, ensure B-BBEE compliance, and gain insights for key industries.

February 13, 2024
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Stock Options and Vesting
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A Comprehensive Guide to Early Exercise Stock Options for African Startups

This guide explores stock options intricacies, emphasizing factors influencing African startups to permit early exercise

February 5, 2024
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Valuations
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A Deep Dive into Valuation 409A for Startups

Valuation 409A is vital for equity-based compensation. Originating in the U.S., it prevents undervalued stock options, crucial for tax transparency.

February 1, 2024
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#BuildingForBella (Part 6): Laying the Foundation: Setting Up Your Company for Success

The sixth article centers on comprehending legal structures and regulations in Africa. It offers crucial guidance for building a solid foundation essential for long-term success in the startup ecosystem.

January 22, 2024
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🌍 A Short Guide on How Valuation Impacts Investor Relations

Launching your startup in Africa? Learn how to build a solid valuation with Raise's tools tailored for the African market.

January 15, 2024
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#BuildingforBella: Part 5- Innovating for Sustainable Impact.

In the latest installment of our series on Bella's entrepreneurial journey, we explore how she not only navigated challenges for business growth but also harnessed innovation to create a positive impact on society and the environment.

December 1, 2023
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Getting Ready for Fundraising in 2024: A Guide for African Startups

Get prepared for fundraising in 202. Focus on building a strong business plan and team, adhere to rules, and community impact, and adopt Raise's tailored Equity Clinic services for comprehensive legal and financial support.

December 1, 2023
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How We Stay Organized- Michelle Ruiz, IQPAY

In our fourth “How We Stay Organized” spotlight series, IQPAY's founder, Michelle Ruiz gives us an insight into the company and how Raise has helped them grow.

October 27, 2023
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A Guide to Valuations for Early-Stage African Startups

Understanding how much your African startup is worth is vital for attracting investors, making smart decisions, and preserving your ownership. Different valuation methods help early-stage founders find the right price tag for their businesses.

October 26, 2023
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#BuildingforBella: Part 4- Tackling Challenges & Opportunities for Growth

In the fourth part of the series, Bella grapples with challenges such as securing funding, market-specific strategies, talent retention, and technology adoption while seizing opportunities through collaborations to scale her African startup.

October 23, 2023
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How We Stay Organized- Adebayo Juwon, Finna Protocol

In our third “How We Stay Organized” spotlight series, Finna Protocol’s co-founder Adebayo Juwon discusses using Raise for Equity Management and Valuation services.

October 10, 2023
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How to navigate the 2023 funding landscape and prepare for your next round.

In this article, we discuss the 2023 funding challenges faced by African startups, highlighting the need for effective navigation of the funding landscape.

October 10, 2023
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#BuildingforBella: Part 3-Securing Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations to Fuel Growth.

In part three, Bella focuses on strategic partnerships to fuel her startup's growth. She recognizes the significance of quality partnerships, emphasizing trust, diversity, and starting small to achieve big dreams.

September 15, 2023
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Introducing 'Calculator': Putting the Power of Forecasting in Your Hands

Raise introduces "Calculator," a scenario modeling tool for African startups, simplifying equity planning, offering insights into financing, and benefiting both startups and investors in key African markets.

September 11, 2023
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How We Stay Organized- Abiola Shogbeni, Shiga Digital

In our second “How We Stay Organized” spotlight series, Shiga Digital’s founder Abiola Shogbeni discusses using Raise for managing cap tables, providing Equity Clinic services, and streamlining corporate governance.

August 30, 2023
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#BuildingforBella: Part 2-Navigating the Equity Journey through Regulatory Compliance

Bella prioritized transparency for investor attraction and explored regulatory compliance's significance. Despite challenges, she sought legal guidance, tools to proactively embrace compliance for trust-building, investor appeal, & growth.

August 16, 2023
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#BuildingForBella: Part 1-Boosting Investor Confidence in African Startups through Transparent Ownership Structures

Bella tackles funding challenges for her startup due to transparency and governance concerns. Embracing openness, financial clarity & robust governance, she paves the way for her vision of transforming African financial services.

August 8, 2023
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How We Stay Organized- Eric Annan, Aya

In our "How We Stay Organized" spotlight series, Aya's founder Eric Annan discusses usingRaise for managing cap tables, providing Equity Clinic services, and streamlining corporate governance.

August 2, 2023
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Dissecting the Role of an Equity Management Tool for African Startups

In this article, we provide a comprehensive understanding of how an equity management tool can empower African entrepreneurs to navigate their equity journey effectively.

July 18, 2023
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Importance of Global Benchmark Standards for African Startup Valuations

In this article, we will explore the importance of a global benchmark standard for African companies seeking to conduct valuations.

July 14, 2023
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9 Reasons why you should care about the Kenyan Finance Act 2023

A comprehensive exploration of the far-reaching implications of the Kenyan Finance Act, 2023. In this article, we delve into the implications and present nine compelling reasons why you should pay attention to the Kenyan Finance Act, 2023.

July 14, 2023
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6 Financial Modelling Tips for African Startup Founders

Below are six financial modeling tips for starting a new business.

June 15, 2023
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7 ways to navigate the African Startup Ecosystem as a first-time founder

Below are the seven ways to navigate the African Startup Ecosystem as a first-time founder.

June 15, 2023
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Equity Allocation and Vesting: Best Practices for African Startup Founders

By following best practices in equity management, African founders can attract top talent, promote ownership culture, and ensure sustainable growth.

May 18, 2023
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Equity Compensation: How African Startups Can Attract and Keep Great Employees

In the competitive world of African startups, it's important to attract and retain talented employees for long-term success. By offering employees a share in the company, startups can align their interests and create a sense of ownership.

May 18, 2023
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4 Reasons Why African FinTech’s Need Effective Equity Structures

African Fintech industry is growing, but venture capital investment has declined in 2023. Proper equity structure is essential for fintech businesses in Africa for various reasons.

April 24, 2023
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5 Reasons Why Compliance Is Important For Every Startup

Compliance helps startups operate smoothly and secure its future success. Here are five core reasons why compliance is imperative for every startup.

April 17, 2023
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Unlocking Growth: Understanding Market Cap in the African Startup Ecosystem

Market cap can be an indicator of success and investor interest, but it's not the only metric that matters, especially as African markets are still underdeveloped and less formal.‍

April 17, 2023
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The Art Of Start-Up Valuation: Best Practices For Successful Outcomes

Valuation is an essential step in the fundraising process for any start-up, as it helps founders and investors to make informed decisions regarding investment and growth strategies. However, start-up valuation can be complex and may be problematic in the future if not done accurately and consistently.

March 20, 2023
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Structuring the Perfect Pitch

The perfect pitch really does exist but don’t think that you are going to walk in front of potential partners or investors and sway them in your direction without putting in the time to craft something truly remarkable. Here are 5 tips when structuring what could be the key to your business success.

February 13, 2023
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6 Reasons Why Equity Management Is Essential For Startups

Managing the ownership structure of a startup is known as equity management and it encompasses a range of activities such as raising capital, issuing shares, and determining the value of the company.

February 8, 2023
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Managing share dilution as a first-time founder

A major concern for many first-time founders is share dilution, which is the reduction in the value of an individual's ownership stake in a company. Share dilution often occurs when a company raises capital through the issuance of new shares, which decreases the percentage of ownership that existing shareholders hold.

January 30, 2023
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Fundraising 101 For First-Time Founders

As a first-time founder, fundraising can be demoralizing, however, the task becomes an easy one to face when you select an appropriate approach to tackle it. In this article, we have outlined some fundraising tips that first-time founders can implement when trying to secure funding for their businesses.

January 16, 2023
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What is Scenario Modeling?

Decision makers usually create hypothetical scenarios of events and then analyze the various outcomes of each scenario. Doing this helps the decision maker to have an overview of the likely impact of a course of action, the potential consequences, risks or rewards of taking an action and also help to plan for contingencies.

December 13, 2022
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5 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Issuing Stock Options

ESOPs are a great way to attract and retain the best talents in a startup at the earliest stages when the business is yet to be profitable or cannot effectively pay the talent standard rates. Though a great offer, it might become challenging in the long run if some costly mistakes aren't avoided.

December 7, 2022
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4 Tips for Raising Pre-Seed Funding

At the very early stage of a startup, funding is the most critical requirement for growth. Funding is needed to build, operate and scale the business from scratch. Without funding, the probability of a business moving from a product/service development phase to the market is highly unrealistic. In this article, we highlight four major tips every founder needs to know to raise pre-seed funding.

November 21, 2022
Read Article
link to "current" page
Fundraising
Valuations
All Posts

Understanding Pre-Money Valuation

Investors want to know the value of a company before investing. In mature businesses, the valuation has hard facts and figures driven by the stream of revenue. The valuation of pre-revenue businesses is challenging as there are no figures or data.

November 9, 2022
Read Article
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

How to Raise Funds in 4 Easy Steps

Once your startup is investment-ready, the next item is to begin fundraising. It’s often a challenging process and might yield positive or negative responses depending on the success of the strategy.

October 27, 2022
Read Article
link to "current" page
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

How to draft an Investor Update

Investor updates are documents that help communicate key business growth needed to share to the investor to solidify your business relationship, gain more trust from the investors and also help you attract potential investors in your company.

October 20, 2022
Read Article
link to "current" page
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
Stock Options & Vesting
All Posts

How to choose the right investor for your startup

A wrong investor at the early stage of the business is most likely to have adverse effects on the growth of the business. As a founder, it’s important to leverage solid relationships and networks when selecting an early-stage investor in your company.

September 24, 2022
Read Article
link to "current" page
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
Stock Options & Vesting
All Posts

How To Sell Equity Responsibly

Startups can raise equity capital through investors/venture capitalists. Once raised, the ownership of the company becomes diluted. Founders need to understand how to sell equity so that they do not mistakenly sell their entire company.

September 8, 2022
Read Article
link to "current" page
Fundraising
Cap Tables & Equities
All Posts

6 Strategies To Hire & Retain Top Talent At A Growing Startup‍

Retaining employees at early stages saves money and time that would have been spent on hiring. The inability to retain talents can often create a setback and also negatively affect the dynamic work relationship that already exists among the team.

August 25, 2022
Read Article
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

Growth Tips For Early-Stage Startups

Investors are concerned about potential for rapid growth and high-future earnings. Before investing; gathering insights from consumer interactions and use data to build and develop a solid foundation for growth at this early stage.

August 8, 2022
Read Article
link to "current" page
Fundraising
All Posts

What makes a startup investment-ready?

Investors are concerned about their return on investment. Identifying the right investors, telling a convincing narrative and getting an investor to commit are among the top things that help a business scale and can also boost a founder's confidence.

July 25, 2022
Read Article
link to "current" page