Checklist · RPA
RPA fundraising checklist — Step by Step 2026
Raising capital for your RPA startup requires a strategic approach. This checklist guides you through each phase, addressing critical pain points like integration with UiPath, scaling automations built with Automation Anywhere, and ensuring compliance while using Blue Prism.
Phase 01
Preparation & Positioning
- prep-1critical1 week
Define your RPA solution's core value proposition
Clearly articulate how your RPA solution solves a specific problem better than alternatives, focusing on ROI and efficiency gains compared to manual processes.
- prep-2critical1 week
Identify your target market and ideal customer profile
Specify the industries and company sizes that benefit most from your RPA solution, considering factors like process complexity and data volume. Focus on verticals underserved by incumbents.
- prep-3critical2 weeks
Develop a compelling pitch deck highlighting key metrics
Create a visually appealing pitch deck that showcases your RPA solution's impact through metrics like automation rate, error reduction, and cost savings. Include customer testimonials or case studies.
- prep-4high1 week
Research potential investors specializing in automation
Identify venture capital firms and angel investors with a track record of investing in RPA, AI, and enterprise software. Prioritize those with experience in your target industry.
- prep-5high2 weeks
Prepare a detailed financial model projecting growth and profitability
Develop a realistic financial model that forecasts revenue, expenses, and cash flow for the next 3-5 years. Account for factors like subscription pricing, customer acquisition cost, and operating expenses.
- prep-6mediumOngoing
Establish a strong online presence and thought leadership
Create a professional website and social media profiles that showcase your RPA solution and team expertise. Share valuable content through blog posts, articles, and webinars.
- prep-7high4 weeks
Build a prototype or MVP of your RPA solution
Develop a working prototype or minimum viable product (MVP) that demonstrates the core functionality of your RPA solution. Use low-code platforms like Microsoft Power Automate to accelerate development.
- prep-8highOngoing
Secure early customer validation and testimonials
Pilot your RPA solution with early adopters and gather feedback to refine your product. Obtain testimonials and case studies to showcase your solution's value proposition.
- prep-9criticalOngoing
Assemble a skilled team with expertise in RPA and relevant industries
Recruit talented individuals with experience in RPA development, implementation, and sales. Prioritize candidates with domain expertise in your target industries.
- prep-10mediumOngoing
Define clear metrics for measuring fundraising progress
Track key metrics like the number of investor meetings, pitch deck views, and term sheet offers. Use a CRM system to manage investor relationships and track progress.
Phase 02
Outreach & Networking
- outreach-1highOngoing
Leverage your network to secure introductions to investors
Reach out to your existing network of contacts, including advisors, mentors, and alumni, to request introductions to potential investors. Use LinkedIn to identify mutual connections.
- outreach-2mediumOngoing
Attend industry events and conferences to meet investors
Participate in RPA and automation conferences, such as UiPath Forward and Automation Anywhere Imagine, to network with investors and industry experts. Prepare a concise elevator pitch.
- outreach-3mediumOngoing
Submit your startup to online pitch competitions and accelerators
Apply to participate in pitch competitions and accelerator programs focused on automation and enterprise software. Prepare a compelling pitch and be ready to answer questions from judges.
- outreach-4mediumOngoing
Use online platforms to connect with investors
Utilize platforms like AngelList and Crunchbase to identify and connect with investors interested in RPA and AI startups. Craft personalized messages highlighting your solution's value proposition.
- outreach-5highOngoing
Craft personalized emails to targeted investors
Research each investor and tailor your email to their specific interests and investment thesis. Highlight how your RPA solution aligns with their portfolio and investment strategy.
- outreach-6highOngoing
Follow up with investors promptly and persistently
Send follow-up emails and schedule calls with investors who express interest in your RPA solution. Be persistent but respectful, and avoid spamming investors.
- outreach-7mediumOngoing
Track your outreach efforts and investor interactions
Use a CRM system to track your outreach efforts and investor interactions. Monitor key metrics like response rates, meeting requests, and due diligence progress.
- outreach-8high1 week
Prepare for investor meetings by practicing your pitch
Rehearse your pitch and anticipate common questions from investors. Be prepared to discuss your RPA solution's market opportunity, competitive landscape, and financial projections.
- outreach-9medium1 week
Seek feedback on your pitch deck from experienced entrepreneurs
Share your pitch deck with experienced entrepreneurs and advisors for feedback. Incorporate their suggestions to improve your messaging and storytelling.
- outreach-10highOngoing
Refine your pitch based on investor feedback
Continuously refine your pitch based on feedback from investors. Address their concerns and incorporate their suggestions to improve your chances of securing funding.
Phase 03
Due Diligence & Negotiation
- due-1critical1 week
Prepare a comprehensive data room for due diligence
Organize all relevant documents and information, including financial statements, customer contracts, intellectual property, and legal agreements, in a secure online data room. Ensure easy access for investors.
- due-2criticalOngoing
Respond promptly and accurately to investor requests
Answer investor questions and provide additional information as needed during the due diligence process. Be transparent and honest in your responses.
- due-3criticalOngoing
Engage legal counsel to review term sheets and agreements
Hire an experienced attorney specializing in venture capital to review term sheets and investment agreements. Ensure that the terms are fair and protect your interests.
- due-4highOngoing
Negotiate key terms of the investment agreement
Negotiate key terms of the investment agreement, such as valuation, ownership percentage, board representation, and liquidation preferences. Seek advice from your legal counsel.
- due-5medium1 week
Conduct background checks on potential investors
Research the reputation and track record of potential investors before accepting their funding. Verify their investment history and any potential conflicts of interest.
- due-6highOngoing
Address any concerns raised by investors during due diligence
Address any concerns raised by investors regarding your RPA solution, market opportunity, or financial projections. Provide additional data or explanations to alleviate their concerns.
- due-7medium2 weeks
Obtain independent validation of your technology and market
Engage third-party experts to validate your RPA solution's technology and market potential. Obtain reports or testimonials from industry analysts or consultants.
- due-8high1 week
Prepare for potential legal and financial audits
Ensure that your company's legal and financial records are in order and ready for potential audits by investors. Comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
- due-9criticalOngoing
Maintain open communication with investors throughout the process
Keep investors informed of your progress and any significant developments during the due diligence process. Build trust and maintain a positive relationship.
- due-10highN/A
Be prepared to walk away if the terms are not favorable
Be prepared to walk away from the deal if the terms are not favorable or if you have concerns about the investor's reputation or intentions. Protect your company's interests.
Phase 04
Closing & Onboarding
- closing-1critical1 week
Finalize all legal documents and agreements
Ensure that all legal documents and agreements are finalized and signed by all parties. Review the documents carefully with your legal counsel.
- closing-2critical1 week
Transfer funds and issue equity to investors
Transfer funds from investors to your company's bank account and issue equity shares or warrants as agreed upon in the investment agreement.
- closing-3critical1 day
Update your cap table to reflect the new investment
Update your cap table to reflect the new investment and ownership structure. Ensure that the cap table is accurate and up-to-date.
- closing-4high1 week
Onboard new investors to your company
Introduce new investors to your team, company culture, and strategic goals. Provide them with access to relevant information and resources.
- closing-5high2 weeks
Establish a board of directors and advisory board
Establish a board of directors and advisory board with experienced individuals who can provide guidance and support to your company. Include investor representatives on the board.
- closing-6medium1 week
Communicate the funding announcement to your stakeholders
Announce the funding to your employees, customers, partners, and the media. Highlight the benefits of the funding for your company and its stakeholders.
- closing-7critical2 weeks
Develop a detailed plan for utilizing the funds
Create a detailed plan for how you will utilize the funds to achieve your company's strategic goals. Allocate resources to key areas such as product development, sales, and marketing.
- closing-8high1 week
Set clear milestones and KPIs for tracking progress
Set clear milestones and key performance indicators (KPIs) for tracking progress towards your strategic goals. Monitor your performance regularly and make adjustments as needed.
- closing-9criticalOngoing
Establish regular communication with investors
Establish regular communication with investors through board meetings, progress reports, and informal updates. Keep them informed of your company's progress and challenges.
- closing-10criticalOngoing
Maintain a strong relationship with your investors
Maintain a strong relationship with your investors by being transparent, responsive, and proactive. Seek their advice and support as needed.
Phase 05
Post-Funding Growth & Scaling
- post-1criticalOngoing
Execute your plan for utilizing the funds
Execute your plan for utilizing the funds to achieve your company's strategic goals. Focus on key areas such as product development, sales, and marketing, addressing integration challenges with platforms like Workato.
- post-2highOngoing
Monitor your progress against milestones and KPIs
Monitor your progress against milestones and KPIs regularly. Track your performance and make adjustments as needed to stay on track.
- post-3highOngoing
Expand your team and infrastructure
Expand your team and infrastructure to support your growing business. Hire talented individuals in key areas such as engineering, sales, and marketing. Ensure your infrastructure supports automation scaling.
- post-4highOngoing
Scale your sales and marketing efforts
Scale your sales and marketing efforts to reach a wider audience and generate more leads. Invest in marketing automation tools and sales enablement platforms.
- post-5highOngoing
Enhance your product and technology
Continuously enhance your product and technology to meet the evolving needs of your customers. Invest in research and development to stay ahead of the competition. Improve analytics using tools like Celonis.
- post-6mediumOngoing
Build strategic partnerships and alliances
Build strategic partnerships and alliances with other companies to expand your reach and offer complementary products and services. Partner with RPA vendors like UiPath or Automation Anywhere.
- post-7highOngoing
Track customer satisfaction and retention
Track customer satisfaction and retention rates to ensure that your customers are happy with your RPA solution. Address any issues or concerns promptly. Monitor usage and identify adoption hurdles.
- post-8mediumOngoing
Prepare for future funding rounds
Prepare for future funding rounds by building a strong track record of growth and profitability. Maintain a positive relationship with your investors and keep them informed of your progress.
- post-9lowOngoing
Explore potential exit strategies
Explore potential exit strategies, such as an acquisition by a larger company or an initial public offering (IPO). Consult with your investors and advisors to determine the best path forward.
- post-10highOngoing
Maintain a strong company culture
Maintain a strong company culture that attracts and retains talented employees. Foster a collaborative and innovative environment where employees can thrive. Focus on continuous learning related to technologies from vendors such as Blue Prism.
Pro tips
- Prioritize integrations with existing enterprise systems to demonstrate immediate value and reduce adoption friction.
- Focus on showcasing ROI through quantifiable metrics like cost savings and efficiency gains to attract investors.
- Build a strong team with expertise in both RPA technology and the specific industry you are targeting.
- Address concerns about security and compliance early on to build trust with investors and customers.
- Continuously monitor and optimize your RPA solutions to ensure they deliver maximum value and adapt to changing business needs.