Send Updates Consistently

Monthly is the standard. Investors remember who keeps them informed — and who goes silent. Regular updates build trust and make it easier to ask for help when you need it.

Always Include Asks

Investors want to help, but only if you tell them how. Every update should include specific asks: intros you need, roles you’re hiring, advice on a specific problem, or just “let me know if you’re interested in following on.”

Use Portal Links Over Single-Update Links

Give each investor their portal link once. They’ll have access to all historical updates without you sending a new link every month. Less friction for everyone.

Think Fully Diluted

When negotiating or thinking about ownership, always use fully diluted numbers. That’s how investors think about it. Outstanding shares show voting power today; fully diluted shows economic ownership including the option pool.

Run Simulations Before Term Sheets

Understand dilution before you’re in the room. Model different valuations, ESOP expansions, and SAFE conversions so you know exactly what you’re agreeing to. Surprises in cap table math erode trust.

Keep Your Cap Table Current

Outdated cap tables create problems during due diligence. Every round, every grant, every conversion should be recorded when it happens — not reconstructed months later when an investor asks for a cap table export.