A well thought-out financing strategy is the key to the growth, scaling and sustainability of a start-up. It secures the resources you need to realize your vision and achieve long-term impact.
You’ve come to the right place if …
- you want to found an impact startup or are already in the middle of it with your team.
- you can clearly identify your target group as well as the problem, solution and impact.
- you have developed a validated prototype.
- you have received initial evidence of the impact of your offer at outcome level.
- you have identified a market for your offering and developed an initial business model.
- you have developed and tested a Minimal Viable Product (MVP).
- you can ensure the impact measurement of your offer at the output and outcome levels.
- you have an idea of how your solution is scalable.

Not quite ready yet?
Then select the appropriate chapter here
This chapter helps to …
- develop a financing plan.
- identify suitable investors and funding opportunities.
- create a convincing pitch deck that combines impact and business model.
This is about the development and implementation of your business model and the financial aspects of your solution.
We deal with the impact-oriented area here.
Finding the right sources of financing
From traditional options such as equity and impact investors to innovative models such as revenue-based financing — there are numerous options that you can tailor to your needs. In this chapter, you will learn how to evaluate and combine financing options to achieve maximum flexibility, stability and scalability.
1. get an overview of the financing options
Think about which sources of funding suit your business model and your impact approach. Possible options are
- Equity
- Impact investors, business angels and specialized venture capital funds
- Foundations and philanthropists
- Incubators / Accelerators
- Bank loans
- State funding programs for sustainable companies
- Crowdfunding with a focus on social or ecological projects
2. examines alternative financing models
Not every source of funding will suit the needs of your impact startup. Alternatives such as revenue-based financing, venture debt or peer-to-peer lending could give you more flexibility without losing control of your solution.
- Revenue-based financing: In this form of financing, a company receives capital from investors and repays this through a percentage of its future sales.
- Venture debt: This is a loan granted by specialized banks or debt funds to high-growth, venture capital-financed start-ups. Lenders accept a higher risk here compared to traditional banks.
- Peer-to-peer loans: P2P loans are a form of direct lending between private individuals or companies, without the involvement of traditional financial institutions such as banks.
3. evaluates the options
To make the best choice, evaluate each option based on availability, cost, leverage and flexibility. Hybrid financing is often the key, where you combine equity, debt and grants with innovative instruments such as social impact bonds. This is how you lay the financial foundation for growth and long-term success.
Adapt financing strategy
To successfully guide your impact startup through the various development phases, you should adapt your financing to phases, milestones and possible scenarios .
- Phase-based planning: Assign the appropriate financing options to the respective development stages of your startup and decide which form makes the most sense and when.
- Milestone-based planning: linking your financing strategy then with clear milestones, such as the completion of an MVP test or proof of your first impact. This way, you can keep an eye on your goals.
- Scenario planning: Supplement this with scenario planning in which you develop best-case, worst-case and probability scenarios in order to be able to react flexibly to changes.
Well prepared for investors
1. gather your important documents together
Transparency is crucial when preparing for investors. Make sure that your documents are complete. Must not be missing:
- your business model
- all key financial figures and
- your measurable impact KPIs.
2.structure your pitch deck
A convincing pitch shows potential investors why your startup is unique and why it is worth investing in. Divide your presentation into clear sections.
Problem
Solution
Market potential
Business model
Team
Impact
Focus on the added value and show how your startup combines social or ecological impact with financial sustainability. Use data and storytelling to support your arguments with numbers and tell a compelling story that makes your vision tangible.
3. practise, practise, practise
Try out different approaches, test your pitch in front of friends, colleagues or mentors and adapt it. Practice giving the presentation. A confident appearance and timing are crucial to convince investors.
Networking and becoming visible
Networking is equally important for the success of your startup: Attend events such as conferences, pitches and meetups, and join networks and communities for social enterprises. Use platforms such as LinkedIn and startup portals to increase your visibility and make contacts with investors and partners. Actively maintain existing connections and keep your supporters up to date with regular updates. Competitions and tenders can also help to secure funding and strengthen your presence in the industry.
Next chapter: Test strategy
The development of your funding strategy is in full swing and you have prepared a pitch for potential sponsors and investors.
In the next chapter it’s time to test your strategy — by pitching it to potential donors and getting feedback.