Skip to content
Sign in

Checklist · Supply Chain Finance

Supply Chain Finance fundraising checklist — Step by Step 2026

Fundraising for a Supply Chain Finance startup requires a strategic approach. This checklist provides a structured path to secure funding, addressing integration challenges, scalability concerns, and adoption hurdles specific to the industry.

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

Phase 01

Phase 1: Market Validation & Problem Definition

10 tasks
  • 1.1
    critical2 weeks

    Identify Target Market Segment

    Define your specific target market within Supply Chain Finance (e.g., SMEs, large enterprises) and their unique financing needs. Use platforms like Tradeshift to understand market trends.

  • 1.2
    critical3 weeks

    Validate Problem with Potential Customers

    Conduct interviews and surveys with potential customers to validate the pain points your solution addresses. Focus on integration issues, cost reduction, and adoption barriers.

  • 1.3
    high2 weeks

    Analyze Competitive Landscape

    Research existing solutions and identify your unique value proposition compared to competitors like the established players in this space. Focus on areas like automation and compliance.

  • 1.4
    high1 week

    Define Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

    Establish KPIs to measure the success of your solution, such as transaction volume, cost savings, and customer satisfaction. Consider incorporating analytics from platforms like Tableau.

  • 1.5
    critical4 weeks

    Develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

    Create a functional MVP that demonstrates the core value of your solution. Focus on core features like invoice discounting or reverse factoring.

  • 1.6
    high3 weeks

    Test MVP with Early Adopters

    Pilot your MVP with a small group of early adopters to gather feedback and iterate on your solution. Address concerns related to integration and support.

  • 1.7
    medium2 weeks

    Refine Business Model

    Determine your monetization strategy (e.g., subscription, usage-based, enterprise) and refine your pricing model based on market feedback. Explore API integrations.

  • 1.8
    medium1 week

    Document Key Assumptions

    Document all key assumptions about your market, solution, and business model. This will be crucial for investor conversations.

  • 1.9
    low0.5 week

    Prepare a Pitch Deck Outline

    Create an outline for your pitch deck, highlighting the problem, solution, market opportunity, and team. Tailor it to Supply Chain Finance investors.

  • 1.10
    lowOngoing

    Secure Initial Seed Funding (Optional)

    Consider securing initial seed funding from friends, family, or angel investors to support early development. Use platforms like AngelList.

Phase 02

Phase 2: Building a Strong Team & Network

10 tasks
  • 2.1
    criticalOngoing

    Recruit Key Team Members

    Build a team with expertise in Supply Chain Finance, technology, and business development. Look for talent with experience in platforms like another established player.

  • 2.2
    high1 month

    Establish Advisory Board

    Form an advisory board with experienced professionals in Supply Chain Finance and related fields. Seek advisors with connections to potential investors.

  • 2.3
    highOngoing

    Network with Industry Experts

    Attend industry events and conferences to network with potential investors, customers, and partners. Focus on events related to fintech and supply chain management.

  • 2.4
    criticalOngoing

    Connect with Relevant Investors

    Identify venture capital firms and angel investors who invest in Supply Chain Finance or related sectors. Research their investment thesis and portfolio companies.

  • 2.5
    highOngoing

    Build Relationships with Potential Customers

    Continue building relationships with potential customers to gather feedback and secure early commitments. Address their specific needs related to compliance and automation.

  • 2.6
    medium2 weeks

    Refine Product Roadmap

    Develop a detailed product roadmap based on customer feedback and market trends. Prioritize features that address integration challenges and scalability concerns.

  • 2.7
    medium1 month

    Secure Strategic Partnerships

    Explore strategic partnerships with complementary businesses to expand your reach and offer a more comprehensive solution. Consider partnerships with ERP providers.

  • 2.8
    medium2 weeks

    Develop a Marketing Strategy

    Create a marketing strategy to raise awareness of your solution and generate leads. Focus on online channels and industry-specific publications.

  • 2.9
    high2 weeks

    Prepare Financial Projections

    Develop detailed financial projections for the next 3-5 years, including revenue forecasts, expense budgets, and cash flow statements. Use realistic assumptions.

  • 2.10
    mediumOngoing

    Practice Your Pitch

    Practice your pitch deck and delivery to ensure a clear and compelling presentation. Focus on the key benefits of your solution for Supply Chain Finance customers.

Phase 03

Phase 3: Preparing the Pitch Deck & Materials

10 tasks
  • 3.1
    critical1 week

    Craft a Compelling Story

    Develop a compelling narrative that highlights the problem, solution, market opportunity, and team. Focus on the impact of your solution on Supply Chain Finance.

  • 3.2
    high1 week

    Design a Visually Appealing Deck

    Create a visually appealing pitch deck with clear and concise slides. Use professional design tools and templates.

  • 3.3
    high0.5 week

    Highlight Key Metrics

    Showcase key metrics such as customer growth, revenue, and profitability. Use charts and graphs to visualize your progress.

  • 3.4
    high1 week

    Demonstrate Product Traction

    Provide evidence of product traction, such as testimonials, case studies, and usage statistics. Focus on the benefits for Supply Chain Finance users.

  • 3.5
    medium0.5 week

    Address Potential Risks

    Acknowledge potential risks and challenges, and outline your mitigation strategies. Be transparent and realistic.

  • 3.6
    critical0.5 week

    Define Funding Requirements

    Clearly state your funding requirements and how you plan to use the funds. Justify your valuation and exit strategy.

  • 3.7
    medium1 week

    Create a Data Room

    Set up a data room with all relevant documents, such as financial statements, contracts, and legal agreements. Use secure cloud storage.

  • 3.8
    low0.5 week

    Prepare a One-Pager

    Create a concise one-pager that summarizes your business and investment opportunity. Use this as a leave-behind for potential investors.

  • 3.9
    high2 weeks

    Develop a Financial Model

    Create a detailed financial model that projects your revenue, expenses, and cash flow. Use sensitivity analysis to assess different scenarios.

  • 3.10
    highOngoing

    Practice Q&A

    Anticipate potential questions from investors and prepare thoughtful answers. Practice your Q&A with your team and advisors.

Phase 04

Phase 4: Approaching Investors & Pitching

10 tasks
  • 4.1
    critical1 week

    Identify Target Investors

    Research and identify investors who are a good fit for your business. Consider their investment stage, industry focus, and portfolio companies.

  • 4.2
    high1 week

    Send Initial Outreach Emails

    Craft personalized outreach emails to introduce your business and request a meeting. Highlight the key benefits for Supply Chain Finance customers.

  • 4.3
    mediumOngoing

    Follow Up with Investors

    Follow up with investors who have not responded to your initial outreach. Be persistent but respectful.

  • 4.4
    highOngoing

    Schedule Meetings

    Schedule meetings with interested investors to present your pitch deck and answer their questions. Use online scheduling tools.

  • 4.5
    criticalOngoing

    Deliver a Compelling Pitch

    Deliver a clear and concise pitch that highlights the problem, solution, market opportunity, and team. Focus on the key benefits for Supply Chain Finance.

  • 4.6
    highOngoing

    Answer Questions Thoughtfully

    Answer investor questions thoughtfully and honestly. Be prepared to address potential risks and challenges.

  • 4.7
    highOngoing

    Follow Up After Meetings

    Send thank-you notes to investors after meetings and follow up with any requested information. Maintain communication and build relationships.

  • 4.8
    mediumOngoing

    Manage Investor Relationships

    Manage investor relationships effectively, providing regular updates and answering their questions promptly. Build trust and transparency.

  • 4.9
    critical2 weeks

    Negotiate Term Sheets

    Negotiate term sheets with interested investors, seeking legal and financial advice. Understand the key terms and conditions.

  • 4.10
    critical2 weeks

    Close the Funding Round

    Close the funding round and finalize the legal agreements. Celebrate your success and prepare for the next stage of growth.

Phase 05

Phase 5: Post-Funding & Growth

10 tasks
  • 5.1
    criticalOngoing

    Execute on Your Business Plan

    Implement your business plan and execute on your key initiatives. Track your progress and make adjustments as needed.

  • 5.2
    highOngoing

    Build a Strong Team

    Continue to build a strong team with the skills and experience needed to execute your vision. Attract and retain top talent.

  • 5.3
    highOngoing

    Scale Your Operations

    Scale your operations to meet the growing demand for your solution. Invest in infrastructure and automation.

  • 5.4
    mediumOngoing

    Expand Your Market Reach

    Expand your market reach to new geographies and customer segments. Explore strategic partnerships and acquisitions.

  • 5.5
    highOngoing

    Monitor Key Metrics

    Monitor key metrics such as customer acquisition cost, churn rate, and revenue per customer. Use data to drive decision-making.

  • 5.6
    mediumOngoing

    Maintain Investor Relations

    Maintain strong relationships with your investors, providing regular updates and seeking their advice. Be transparent and communicative.

  • 5.7
    mediumOngoing

    Prepare for Future Funding Rounds

    Prepare for future funding rounds by building a strong track record and demonstrating continued growth. Refine your business plan and financial projections.

  • 5.8
    lowOngoing

    Explore Exit Opportunities

    Explore potential exit opportunities, such as an acquisition or IPO. Prepare for due diligence and valuation.

  • 5.9
    criticalOngoing

    Focus on Customer Success

    Prioritize customer success and build a loyal customer base. Provide excellent support and continuously improve your solution.

  • 5.10
    highOngoing

    Innovate and Adapt

    Continuously innovate and adapt to the changing market conditions. Stay ahead of the competition and maintain your competitive edge.

Pro tips

  • Focus on solving real pain points in Supply Chain Finance, such as integration challenges with existing ERP systems like SAP or Oracle.
  • Highlight your solution's ability to reduce costs and improve efficiency for both buyers and suppliers.
  • Emphasize the scalability of your platform to accommodate growing transaction volumes and expanding supply chains.
  • Showcase your commitment to compliance with industry regulations and standards, such as KYC and AML.
  • Seek out mentors and advisors with deep experience in Supply Chain Finance and fintech to guide your fundraising efforts.

Frequently asked questions

Keep building

More for Supply Chain Finance

Other Fundraising checklists