What investors really want: how to raise smarter in the Philippines

Learning goal

Fundraising isn’t about flashy decks or perfect products.
It’s about showing that your startup is real, that you’re serious, and that you’re already building something that matters.

When you know what investors care about, you’ll stop guessing, and start focusing on what actually moves the needle.

Why it matters

1. Most founders raise too early
   They pitch ideas before proving demand. That’s a fast way to burn bridges.

2. Investors don’t expect perfection
   They expect signs of momentum, focus, and grit. You can show that even in the early days.

3. Money follows clarity
   If you know your users, your numbers, and your next steps, you’re 10x more fundable.

What Filipino investors really want to see

1. They bet on people, not just products
   Great ideas change. Strong founders adapt.
   Investors ask: is this a team that can figure things out?

   They’re looking for:

   • Commitment to the mission

   • Openness to feedback

   • A clear understanding of the user and problem

2. They want proof, not potential
   You don’t need revenue to raise. But you do need real-world validation.

   Show:

   • Problem interviews with quotes

   • Early users or LOIs (letters of intent)

   • Usage, retention, or signups, even if small

   Traction beats theory every time.

3. They want to know where the money goes
   “We’re raising ₱2M” means nothing without a plan.

   Example breakdown:

   • ₱500K for team

   • ₱800K for product

   • ₱700K for marketing + growth

   Show how each peso moves you forward.

4. They want a clear market, not just a dream
   Your market doesn’t need to be huge yet, but it needs to be real.

   Ask yourself:

   • Is this a real problem, for enough people?

   • Can we grow into a bigger market over time?

   • Do we understand how users behave, pay, and switch?

5. They want to feel your momentum
   Are you building fast? Learning fast? Shipping small versions?

   Even before funding, momentum builds confidence.

Quick checklist

You’re more ready to raise if:

• You’ve validated a real problem with real users

• You’ve built a working prototype or MVP

• You’ve shown traction—even if scrappy

• You know how much you’re raising and why

• You and your team are coachable, committed, and clear

StellarPH tip

Before chasing investors, talk to users.
Build something small. Track what matters.

When you show progress, the right investors will notice.

Raising money isn’t about selling an idea.
It’s about proving that you and your team are worth betting on.