AUXLE

 When launching a startup, one of the first big questions every founder faces is: “How will I fund my business?” The choice between bootstrapping and venture capital (VC) funding can determine how your company grows, scales, and sustains itself in the long run. Both paths have built billion-dollar companies — but each comes with unique challenges, advantages, and implications. In this guide, we’ll break down what bootstrapping means , how venture capital funding works , and explain every type of startup funding stage in detail — from pre-seed to IPO . Whether you’re an early-stage founder or preparing to scale, this article will help you choose the right funding strategy for your startup’s success. What Is Bootstrapping? Bootstrapping a startup means building your business using personal savings, revenue, or help from friends and family instead of raising money from investors. It’s a method where you grow organically — reinvesting profits to expand instead of trading equit...