DO I NEED TRACTION TO FUNDRAISE? HERE’S WHAT INVESTORS WANT TO SEE IN 2025

Yes, you need traction. But not necessarily revenue.

In 2025, investors want proof that your business has demand. That might be revenue, but it could also be strong early signals like waitlists, pre-orders, repeat customers, growing organic traffic, or improving CAC.

You need to show that people want what you’re building, and that you’re building it the right way.

What counts as traction

Demand signals
Early sales, repeat orders, a waitlist that’s growing, or a low CAC from paid ads. Something that shows product-market interest.

Customer insight
You’ve tested something. You’ve got feedback. You understand who your customer is and what they care about.

Clarity
You can clearly explain what your product is, who it’s for, how it’s different, and what’s working.

Data
It doesn’t need to be big. It needs to be real. Investors want to see how you think, what you’re tracking, and what you’ve learned so far.

What doesn’t count

• A pretty brand with no sales

• “We’re talking to X retailer” with nothing signed

• Press without traction

• “We’re raising to find product-market fit”

• A sexy market with no angle in

Final thoughts

You don’t need a perfect business. But you do need proof that it’s working.

If you can show evidence, a plan, and clear thinking, that’s enough at pre-seed.

I work with founders to build decks, shape the story, and show investors why now is the time to back you.