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Checklist · Revenue-Based Financing

Revenue-Based Financing fundraising checklist — Step by Step 2026

This checklist is designed to guide startups through the Revenue-Based Financing (RBF) process, addressing key challenges like integration with existing systems, scaling operations post-funding, and ensuring adoption across the team. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of securing RBF and using it effectively to fuel growth.

50 checklist items 7 min read
Reviewed by Roman Trotsko & Denis TrotskoLast reviewed April 2026

Phase 01

Preparation and Assessment

10 tasks
  • 1.1
    high1 week

    Evaluate RBF Suitability

    Determine if RBF aligns with your business model and growth trajectory. Consider your revenue predictability and potential for scalability. Tools like Monte Carlo simulators can help.

  • 1.2
    critical2 weeks

    Analyze Financial Metrics

    Thoroughly analyze your revenue, customer acquisition cost (CAC), and lifetime value (LTV) to understand your financial health. Use tools like Baremetrics to track these metrics.

  • 1.3
    medium1 week

    Identify Potential RBF Providers

    Research and identify RBF providers that specialize in your industry and business model. Consider providers such as Lighter Capital and Capchase. Check reviews on G2.

  • 1.4
    high2 weeks

    Prepare Financial Projections

    Develop detailed financial projections demonstrating your revenue growth potential and ability to repay the RBF. Use forecasting tools like PlanGuru.

  • 1.5
    critical1 week

    Legal Due Diligence

    Consult with legal counsel to understand the terms and conditions of RBF agreements. Ensure compliance with relevant regulations. Use a platform like LexCheck for contract review.

  • 1.6
    medium1 week

    Assess Integration Needs

    Evaluate the integration requirements for RBF platforms with your existing accounting and CRM systems. Platforms like Tray.io can assist with integration.

  • 1.7
    high1 week

    Define Use of Funds

    Clearly define how you will use the RBF funds to drive growth and achieve specific milestones. Focus on areas like marketing, sales, or product development.

  • 1.8
    high2 weeks

    Prepare a Pitch Deck

    Create a compelling pitch deck that highlights your business model, financial performance, and growth potential. Include key metrics and projections. Use tools like PitchBook for market data.

  • 1.9
    medium1 week

    Team Alignment

    Ensure your entire team understands the RBF process and their roles in achieving the repayment goals. Address any concerns about adoption or implementation.

  • 1.10
    medium1 week

    Document Processes

    Document all key processes related to revenue tracking and reporting to ensure accurate and timely repayment. Use a platform like Process Street for documentation.

Phase 02

Application and Negotiation

10 tasks
  • 2.1
    high1 week

    Submit Applications

    Submit applications to your selected RBF providers. Ensure all required documents and information are accurate and complete. Use a tracking spreadsheet to manage applications.

  • 2.2
    critical1 week

    Address Due Diligence Requests

    Respond promptly to any due diligence requests from the RBF providers. Provide clear and concise answers to their questions. Expect requests for bank statements and customer data.

  • 2.3
    critical1 week

    Negotiate Terms

    Negotiate the terms of the RBF agreement, including the revenue share percentage, repayment cap, and any associated fees. Consult with legal counsel during negotiations.

  • 2.4
    high1 week

    Compare Offers

    Carefully compare offers from different RBF providers to determine the best fit for your needs. Consider the overall cost of capital and the flexibility of the repayment terms.

  • 2.5
    medium1 week

    Secure Board Approval

    Obtain board approval for the RBF agreement. Present the terms and conditions to your board and address any concerns they may have.

  • 2.6
    critical1 week

    Finalize Legal Agreements

    Work with legal counsel to finalize the RBF agreement and ensure it accurately reflects the agreed-upon terms. Double-check all clauses and conditions.

  • 2.7
    medium0.5 week

    Establish Communication Channels

    Establish clear communication channels with the RBF provider to ensure smooth reporting and repayment. Designate a point of contact for ongoing communication.

  • 2.8
    high1 week

    Implement Tracking Systems

    Implement tracking systems to monitor your revenue and repayment progress. Integrate your accounting software with the RBF provider's platform. Use tools like ChartMogul.

  • 2.9
    medium0.5 week

    Prepare for Onboarding

    Prepare your team for the onboarding process with the RBF provider. Ensure they understand the reporting requirements and repayment procedures.

  • 2.10
    high0.5 week

    Review Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

    Reiterate KPI goals with your team to ensure alignment and focus on the metrics that drive revenue growth and repayment capacity.

Phase 03

Implementation and Growth

10 tasks
  • 3.1
    highOngoing

    Deploy Capital

    Deploy the RBF capital according to your defined use of funds. Track your spending and measure the impact on revenue growth. Use a platform like Ramp for expense management.

  • 3.2
    criticalOngoing

    Monitor Revenue Performance

    Continuously monitor your revenue performance and identify any trends or anomalies. Use analytics tools like Mixpanel to track key metrics. Report regularly to your RBF provider.

  • 3.3
    highOngoing

    Optimize Marketing Campaigns

    Optimize your marketing campaigns to maximize ROI and drive revenue growth. Use A/B testing and data-driven insights to improve campaign performance. Tools like HubSpot can help.

  • 3.4
    highOngoing

    Scale Sales Efforts

    Scale your sales efforts to accelerate revenue growth. Invest in sales training, automation tools, and lead generation strategies. Use platforms like Salesforce.

  • 3.5
    highOngoing

    Enhance Product Development

    Invest in product development to improve your product's features, functionality, and user experience. Gather customer feedback and prioritize feature requests. Use a platform like Jira for project management.

  • 3.6
    criticalOngoing

    Track Repayment Progress

    Closely track your repayment progress and ensure you are meeting your obligations. Monitor your revenue share payments and maintain open communication with the RBF provider.

  • 3.7
    mediumAs needed

    Address Integration Issues

    Address any integration issues that arise between your systems and the RBF provider's platform. Work with your IT team to resolve any technical challenges.

  • 3.8
    mediumOngoing

    Optimize Cost Structure

    Continuously optimize your cost structure to improve profitability and increase your ability to repay the RBF. Identify areas where you can reduce expenses without impacting revenue growth. Use a platform like Fathom for financial analysis.

  • 3.9
    mediumOngoing

    Monitor Customer Satisfaction

    Monitor customer satisfaction levels to ensure you are providing a positive customer experience. Use customer feedback to identify areas for improvement. Tools like Zendesk can help.

  • 3.10
    mediumOngoing

    Prepare for Future Funding

    Prepare for future funding rounds by maintaining strong financial performance and building a solid track record. Consider your options for future growth capital, including equity financing. Use Cap Table management tools like Carta.

Phase 04

Reporting and Compliance

10 tasks
  • 4.1
    critical1 day/month

    Prepare Monthly Reports

    Prepare monthly reports for the RBF provider, including revenue data, key performance indicators, and repayment progress. Ensure accuracy and timeliness. Use a platform like Databox for dashboarding.

  • 4.2
    criticalAs needed

    Comply with Reporting Requirements

    Comply with all reporting requirements outlined in the RBF agreement. Provide any additional information requested by the RBF provider. Use a checklist to ensure compliance.

  • 4.3
    highOngoing

    Maintain Accurate Records

    Maintain accurate records of all financial transactions and revenue data. Use accounting software like QuickBooks to ensure data integrity. Back up your data regularly.

  • 4.4
    mediumAs needed

    Address Compliance Issues

    Address any compliance issues that arise promptly and effectively. Consult with legal counsel if necessary. Implement corrective actions to prevent future issues.

  • 4.5
    mediumQuarterly

    Review Legal Agreements

    Periodically review the RBF agreement to ensure you are complying with all terms and conditions. Stay informed of any changes in regulations or laws. Use a platform like Ironclad for contract management.

  • 4.6
    mediumAs needed

    Prepare for Audits

    Prepare for potential audits by the RBF provider. Organize your financial records and ensure they are readily accessible. Conduct internal audits to identify any weaknesses.

  • 4.7
    highOngoing

    Communicate with RBF Provider

    Maintain open and transparent communication with the RBF provider. Proactively address any concerns or questions they may have. Build a strong relationship based on trust.

  • 4.8
    lowOngoing

    Document Communication

    Document all communication with the RBF provider, including emails, phone calls, and meetings. Maintain a log of all interactions. Use a CRM like Pipedrive to track communication.

  • 4.9
    lowAs needed

    Seek Expert Advice

    Seek expert advice from financial advisors or consultants if you have any questions or concerns about RBF compliance. Engage professionals with experience in revenue-based financing.

  • 4.10
    lowOngoing

    Stay Updated on Best Practices

    Stay updated on best practices for RBF reporting and compliance. Attend industry events and network with other companies that have used RBF. Follow industry leaders on LinkedIn.

Phase 05

Repayment and Exit

10 tasks
  • 5.1
    highOngoing

    Monitor Repayment Schedule

    Continuously monitor your repayment schedule and ensure you are on track to repay the RBF within the agreed-upon timeframe. Use a calendar or project management tool to track deadlines.

  • 5.2
    criticalOngoing

    Manage Cash Flow

    Carefully manage your cash flow to ensure you have sufficient funds to meet your repayment obligations. Forecast your cash flow and identify potential shortfalls. Use a platform like Float for cash flow forecasting.

  • 5.3
    mediumAs needed

    Accelerate Repayment (Optional)

    Consider accelerating your repayment if you have excess cash flow. This can reduce your overall cost of capital. Discuss options with your RBF provider.

  • 5.4
    mediumAs needed

    Negotiate Repayment Terms (If Needed)

    Negotiate repayment terms with the RBF provider if you are facing financial difficulties. Be transparent and proactive in your communication. Explore options such as deferral or restructuring.

  • 5.5
    criticalFinal month

    Complete Repayment

    Complete the repayment of the RBF according to the agreed-upon terms. Obtain confirmation from the RBF provider that the obligation has been satisfied. Double check all amounts and dates.

  • 5.6
    high1 week

    Obtain Release Documentation

    Obtain release documentation from the RBF provider confirming that the RBF agreement is terminated and that you are no longer subject to any obligations. Store this documentation securely.

  • 5.7
    medium1 week

    Update Financial Records

    Update your financial records to reflect the completion of the RBF repayment. Remove any related liabilities from your balance sheet. Use accounting software to update records.

  • 5.8
    low1 week

    Evaluate RBF Experience

    Evaluate your overall experience with RBF. Identify what worked well and what could be improved. Document your lessons learned for future funding rounds. Conduct a post-mortem analysis.

  • 5.9
    low1 week

    Consider Future Funding Options

    Consider your future funding options. Evaluate whether RBF is still the best fit for your needs or if other forms of financing, such as equity, are more appropriate. Consult with financial advisors.

  • 5.10
    lowOngoing

    Maintain Relationships

    Maintain relationships with your RBF provider. They may be a valuable source of advice and support in the future. Express gratitude for their partnership. Send a thank you note.

Pro tips

  • Prioritize clear communication with your RBF provider to build trust and ensure a smooth repayment process.
  • Invest in robust analytics to track revenue performance and identify areas for improvement.
  • Ensure your team is aligned on the goals of RBF and their roles in achieving them.
  • Proactively address any compliance issues to avoid penalties and maintain a positive relationship with the provider.
  • Negotiate flexible repayment terms that align with your business's revenue cycle and growth trajectory.

Frequently asked questions

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