Comprehensive pricing analysis for every startup fundraising expense. Real cost data from 1,000+ fundraising rounds to help you budget effectively and avoid overpaying.
Total Series A Costs
$150K - $400K
Legal Fees (Biggest)
50-60% of total
Cost as % of Raise
1-3% typical
Potential Savings
20-40%
$150K - $400K
Complete breakdown of Series A expenses including legal fees ($75K-$200K), advisors, pitch decks, and more.
$2K - $200K
Stage-by-stage legal costs from incorporation ($2K-$5K) through Series A ($75K-$200K) and beyond.
$2K - $15K+
Detailed 409A valuation costs by provider and company stage, from early startups to pre-IPO.
$500 - $50K
Professional pitch deck pricing from DIY templates ($50-$200) to premium agencies ($10K-$50K).
3-8% success fee
Complete guide to fundraising advisor costs, success fees (3-8%), retainers, and ROI analysis.
Plan fundraising costs 6+ months in advance. Allocate 2-4% of target raise for all expenses including legal, advisory, and operational costs.
Use fixed-fee arrangements where possible, bundle services for discounts, and avoid rush premiums by planning ahead. Quality matters - don't just choose cheapest.
Professional services often pay for themselves through faster fundraising, better terms, and higher success rates. Calculate total cost of capital, not just fees.
| Service | Seed Stage | Series A | Series B+ | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Fees | $25K - $75K | $75K - $200K | $100K - $300K | Deal complexity, law firm tier |
| 409A Valuation | $2K - $5K | $5K - $10K | $10K - $15K+ | Company stage, complexity |
| Pitch Deck Design | $500 - $5K | $2K - $15K | $5K - $25K | Design quality, customization |
| Consultant Fees | 6-8% success | 4-6% success | 3-5% success | Network quality, track record |
Legal fees are typically 50-60% of total fundraising costs, ranging from $75K-$200K for Series A rounds. This includes term sheet negotiation, due diligence, and closing costs.
Start budgeting 6+ months before fundraising. Allocate 2-4% of your target raise for total costs, with legal fees being the largest component. Early planning prevents rush premiums.
Use standard terms and documents, prepare thoroughly in advance, negotiate fixed fees, bundle services, choose mid-tier providers, and avoid rush timelines. Can save 20-40%.
Yes, for raises $1M+. Professional services typically cost 1-3% of raise amount but can increase success rates 30-50% and reduce timeline 40-60%, generating 3-10x ROI.
Get detailed cost breakdowns and connect with cost-effective service providers