#947 · Startup Tool

Pre Seed Funding Calculator

Estimate the funding amount needed to reach a target runway after current cash, burn, hiring cost, and safety buffer. Use it to size a pre-seed round with fewer cash surprises.

Calculator

Funding need inputs
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mo
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How to use this calculator

  1. Enter current monthly net burn.
  2. Choose the target runway in months.
  3. Enter current cash available.
  4. Add a safety buffer for hiring delays, revenue misses, or fundraising timing.

What the result means

The required funding amount shows how much cash is needed to cover your runway target after current cash. A buffer is important because fundraising and hiring rarely follow the exact plan.

Funding need = (Monthly burn × Target runway − Current cash) × (1 + Safety buffer).

If the result is negative, current cash already covers the selected runway before buffer. Recheck burn if major hires are planned.

Example calculation

With $75,000 monthly burn, 18 months target runway, $250,000 cash, and 15% buffer, required funding is $1,265,000.

Tips for better results

  • Raise for a milestone, not just a calendar period.
  • Include hiring and infrastructure step-ups in burn planning.
  • Keep at least three months of fundraising buffer.
  • Model conservative revenue separately from committed revenue.

FAQ

How much pre-seed funding should my startup raise?

Raise enough to reach the next fundable milestone with 12 to 18 months of runway plus a realistic buffer.

How do I calculate funding needed from monthly burn rate?

Multiply monthly burn by target runway, subtract current cash, then add a safety buffer.

Is 12 months of runway enough for a pre-seed startup?

It may be enough for a focused milestone, but 18 months is often safer when fundraising markets are slower.

Should hiring costs be included in pre-seed funding plans?

Yes. Future hires increase burn and should be reflected in the runway calculation before deciding round size.

What happens if I raise too little at pre-seed?

You may need to fundraise before reaching meaningful traction, which can weaken valuation and negotiation leverage.

Startup decision table

MetricMeaning
Required FundingCapital needed for target runway
Runway From CashMonths covered by current cash
Safety BufferExtra capital for uncertainty

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