In-Person Event

Why You Shouldn’t Raise VC (Yet): How to bootstrap with Carolyn Katz

How founders build traction before raising venture capital

Date
Feb 17, 2026
Time
05:30 pm - 07:00 pm
Address
Wiggin & Dana, 437 Madison Ave, 35th Floor, New York, , NY
Event Banner Image
Raising venture capital is not the only path to building a successful startup, and many founders need to grow their business to a meaningful stage before outside capital is even an option. Join Founder Institute for an in-person session focused on bootstrapping and seedstrapping as practical strategies for early-stage companies. Carolyn will share real-world lessons on funding your growth at the earliest stages, and how these approaches can strengthen your position whether you continue to bootstrap or eventually raise venture capital. Founders will also have the opportunity to share what they're building and receive concrete, practical ideas for funding their business. After the event there will be informal networking.

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Additional Resources:
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About Founder Institute:
The Founder Institute is the world’s most proven network to turn ideas into fundable startups, and startups into global businesses. Since 2009, our structured accelerator programs have helped over 7,000 entrepreneurs raise over $1.75BN in funding. Based in Silicon Valley and with chapters across 100 countries, our mission is to empower communities of talented and motivated people to build impactful technology companies worldwide.

Speakers

Carolyn

Carolyn Katz

Public Company Director @ Multiple Companies

Platinum Partners

Local Partners

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The Founder Institute is the world’s most proven network to turn ideas into fundable startups, and startups into global businesses. Since 2009, our structured accelerator programs have helped over 8,900 entrepreneurs raise over 2BN in funding. Based in Silicon Valley and with chapters across 100 countries, our mission is to empower communities of talented and motivated people to build impactful technology companies worldwide.


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