Research Study

Founder Seed to Series A

sm_researchstudy_bg.png
 

Improving the Journey from Seed to Series A

We’re researching real obstacles and testing new solutions. Your input will shape a model that creates more investable companies.

 
sm_cta_bg2.png


PROBLEM

 

Many strong teams build early traction but don't make it to institutional rounds.

 
sm_bg.png
 

SOLUTION

Phase 1: Obtain Input

Our goal is simple: build an evidence-based understanding of what comes after Demo Day and what would genuinely improve Series A outcomes for Canadian companies.

How is your input used:

  • Identify the most critical barriers

  • Design solutions that create real impact

  • Build a better model than Demo Day

  • Help more founders reach institutional investment

 
sm_focus_bg.png
 

What happens after Demo Day? We’re looking for your perspective.

Over the past few months, we’ve been speaking with founders, investors, accelerators and ecosystem leaders about one question: what most limits accelerator graduates from progressing from Seed-stage traction to institutional investment?

  • We’re not promoting a new program or solution.

  • We’re trying to understand the problem before proposing one.

Accelerators across North America and Europe have helped thousands of founders build stronger companies. Many graduates secure customers, generate revenue and even raise Seed capital. Yet relatively few ultimately attract institutional investment and successfully scale.

Why?

  • Is it founder capability?

  • Customer evidence?

  • Investor-grade financial metrics?

  • Governance?

  • Due diligence readiness?

Or is the challenge that investors need to observe execution over time rather than make decisions based on a single Demo Day presentation?

We don't know the answer yet. That's why we’re asking.

Over the coming weeks, Stuart Morley be interviewing accelerator leaders, founders, lead angels, venture capital partners, economic development organizations and corporate partners to identify the biggest barriers—and, just as importantly, the practices that are already working.

Our goal to build an evidence-based understanding of what comes after Demo Day and what would genuinely improve Series A outcomes for founders, investors and the ecosystem.

If you work with founders, invest in startups, or lead an accelerator, we value 10 minutes of your time to take the questionnaire below.

What do you believe is the single biggest barrier preventing more Seed-stage companies from successfully raising institutional capital?

 
sm_bg.png
 

The best solutions begin by asking better questions.

 
sm_cta_bg2.png