When it comes to securing funding for your startup, many founders focus heavily on crafting the perfect pitch, writing strong grant applications, and networking with investors.
But what happens after you hit submit that grant app or finish that meeting?
The reality is, securing funding isn’t just about applying—it’s about following up.
IYKYK
Investors, grant funders, and accelerator program managers receive hundreds, sometimes thousands, of applications. If you’re not actively keeping yourself on their radar, you could easily get overlooked.
If you’re serious about securing capital, strategic follow-up can be the difference between a yes and a missed opportunity.
Here’s how to do it right:
1. Don’t Just Apply—Follow Up.
Most founders submit an application and wait. Big mistake.
If you haven’t heard back from a funding opportunity, sending a polite and professional follow-up can keep your application from getting lost. This is especially important for grants, accelerators, and pitch competitions where the selection process takes time.
Example Follow-Up Message for a Grant:
Subject: Follow-Up on [Grant Name] Application
Hi [Grant Coordinator's Name],
I hope you're doing well! I recently submitted my application for [Grant Name] and wanted to check if there are any updates on the review process. I’m excited about the opportunity to be a part of this program and would love to know if there’s anything else you need from me to support my application.
Looking forward to your response!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Startup Name]
💡 Pro Tip: Follow up 7-10 days after applying, especially if there’s no set notification date.
2. Turn a "Not Right Now" into a Future Yes.
Hearing "no" from an investor or funder doesn’t mean the door is closed forever—it often means "not right now."
If an investor declines to fund your startup, don’t just walk away and assume it's a complete loss. Instead, ask for feedback and keep them updated on your progress. Many investors reconsider founders who show persistence and execute on their plans.
Note: even if the funder says they can't provide feedback (because that happens), still stay connected with them and keep them updated on your company's progress.
Example Follow-Up After an Investor Declines:
Subject: Appreciate Your Time – Keeping You Updated
Hi [Investor's Name],
Thank you again for taking the time to chat last week. I really appreciate your insights, especially your advice on [specific point they mentioned].
I understand that now may not be the right time, but I’d love to keep you updated as we continue to grow. Since we last spoke, we’ve [mention a key milestone—landed a big customer, hit a revenue goal, improved the product, etc.].
I’d love to reconnect in the future when the timing makes more sense. Let me know if it would be okay to check in again in a few months!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Startup Name]
💡 Pro Tip: If you can, send updates on your startup’s progress every 2-3 months. Investors love to see traction and execution.
3. Keep Funders in the Loop.
Think of investors and funders as potential long-term partners, not just people who can write you a check. If you’ve built a relationship with an investor or grant program, keep them updated on your progress—even if they haven’t funded you yet.
This builds credibility and keeps you top of mind for future opportunities.
Mogul Millennial team
Example Monthly Update to Investors:
Subject: Monthly Update from [Your Startup Name] 🚀
Hi [Investor's Name],
I wanted to send over a quick update on what we’ve been working on at [Startup Name] this month:
📈 Growth: We just crossed [X revenue/users/major milestone].
🤝 Partnerships: We secured a partnership with [Notable Brand or Organization].
🚀 Next Steps: We’re gearing up for [Big Upcoming Event, Launch, or Fundraising Round].
We’re making great progress and would love to stay in touch as we continue to scale. Let me know if you’d be open to a quick chat next month!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Startup Name]
💡 Pro Tip: Even if an investor hasn’t funded you yet, keeping them in the loop can lead to a future yes—or even a valuable introduction.
Final Thoughts: Follow-Up = 💰💰💰
Many founders assume that if someone is interested, they’ll reach out. But in reality, investors and funders are busy, overloaded with pitches, and often juggling multiple deals at once.
If you want to secure funding, you have to stay persistent, stay visible, and follow up strategically.
✅ Apply for funding—but don’t stop there. Follow up and check on your status.
✅ If you get a no, turn it into a future yes. Ask for feedback, stay in touch, and update them on your progress.
✅ Keep funders in the loop. A simple update can be the difference between getting overlooked and getting funded.
Money doesn’t just go to the best startups—it goes to the founders who stay persistent and who also believe that a "no" also can mean "not right now."
Now, take action: Follow up on that grant, check in with that funder, and keep building those relationships. Your next big win could be one message away.
