How to pitch to investors, Shark Tank style: your ask, equity and valuation

Your ask sets your valuation

Divide the amount by the percentage. $100,000 for 10% values the company at $1,000,000 after the investment (the post-money valuation). Before the money arrives, it's worth $900,000 (pre-money).

Ask for too high a valuation and investors walk away; ask too low and you give away too much of your company early.

Valuation calculator →What is post-money valuation? →

How much equity to give

Early rounds usually sell 5% to 25% of the company. Selling more than about 30% in one round leaves little for later rounds and for your team. Founders should keep a clear majority after the first rounds.

See how dilution adds up →

What valuation fits your stage

These ranges vary a lot by country and sector. Traction (users, revenue, growth) is what moves you up.

• Just an idea: often $50k–$1M, mostly based on the team
• Validating with real interest: $200k–$3M
• Working product (MVP) with users: $500k–$6M
• Launched with revenue: $1M and up, often based on a multiple of revenue

Structure your pitch

• The problem, told through one real customer
• Your solution and why now
• Traction: numbers, not adjectives
• The market: who pays and how many of them
• Business model: how you make money
• The team and what you still need
• The ask: amount, equity, and what the money will achieve

Handle offers and counters

Investors may offer less money, ask for more equity, or both. Compare each offer's implied valuation with your ask. A counter-offer is normal; explain your reasoning with traction and plans, not emotion. Think about what each investor brings beyond money.

Pitch on UnbuiltHub

Add a funding ask to your idea and members with an investor profile can make offers on your deal board. As you type your ask, you'll see the valuation and a hint if it looks high or low for your stage. Offers are non-binding; agree the final deal directly, with legal advice.

See ideas raising money →Post your pitch →