Funding Goal Calculator
Work out how much to raise from your actual cost base, planned hires and runway target — with a use-of-funds breakdown.
Your result
Estimates for educational purposes, not financial or legal advice.
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How it works
Each monthly cost category is multiplied by your runway target. New hires are added on a simple ramp (they join over the first third of the runway). A buffer covers slower sales and slower fundraising next time.
Formula
Each cost category × runway monthsNew hires × cost per hire × months employed (hires ramp in over the first third of the runway)Round size = (sum of the above) × (1 + buffer)
Frequently asked questions
How much runway should a round buy?
18–24 months. That gives you about 12–15 months to hit milestones and 6–9 months to raise the next round.
Is it better to raise more than I need?
Somewhat more, yes — the buffer exists for a reason. But raising far more than your plan needs means more dilution and a higher bar at the next round.
How should I present use of funds?
As 3–5 categories tied to milestones, not a line-by-line budget. Investors want to see what the money buys, not every invoice.
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