Founder questions · Evidence

What metrics do investors look at?

Investors may examine customer demand, adoption, retention, revenue, costs, delivery capacity, and the assumptions behind growth. The relevant measures depend on the business model, stage, and investor's approach.

Prepare your funding conversation

Make each number understandable

For every measure, state the definition, period, source, and denominator where relevant. Separate paid customers from users, contracted amounts from received cash, and recurring activity from one-time events. Explain unusual conditions such as heavy founder support or a small sample.

Show the business question behind the metric

A number should help explain demand, repeatability, delivery, or the resource plan. Do not choose only the figures that look best. Include important uncertainties and be prepared to discuss changes over time. This is preparation guidance, not an investment recommendation or a guarantee that a particular metric will satisfy a funder.