The go-to guide for Czech and Slovak founders: How to raise capital in the US

For many first-time founders, raising funds in the US can be a game-changer. You’ll find access to larger capital pools, a bigger network of strategic investors, and countless opportunities to scale worldwide. But it’s important to know that the fundraising process in the US can feel quite different from what you’re used to in Czechia or Slovakia.

In our last guide, we covered visa options for expanding your business to the US. This time, let’s dive into what it takes to succeed in the US fundraising landscape—how to secure your first round of funding and set yourself up for exponential growth.

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1. Prepare your business for US investors

Preparation is everything. US investors want to see that you’re committed to the expansion and ready to grow. Here’s how to get started:

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Prepare for a US flip

Most US investors prefer putting their money into Delaware C-Corps. Why? They’re tax-efficient and legally straightforward. If you’re operating as an s.r.o. or a.s. in Czechia or Slovakia, you’ll need to convert your company into a US-based holding company—a process known as a “US flip.” This structure is familiar to US investors and aligns you with US market standards.

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In contrast, many Czech or Slovak investors are comfortable with local structures, so if you’re staying local, a flip might not be necessary. But if you’re aiming for US capital, a Delaware C-Corp is practically standard.

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Polish your pitch deck

Your pitch deck is your startup’s first impression, so make it count. Here’s what to focus on:

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• Market size and growth: Show investors the total addressable market (TAM) and why your product fits right in.

• Scalability and long-term vision: Prove your business can grow over time, not just today. Show investors that you have a clear roadmap.

• Key metrics and growth rates: Investors want numbers that show how your business is progressing. Highlight numbers like CAC (customer acquisition cost), LTV (lifetime value), and your current growth rate.

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Czech or Slovak investors might put more emphasis on early traction and product-market fit. In the US, investors expect that plus a solid plan for scaling.

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Plan a temporary relocation

Fundraising in the US is relationship-driven. Face-to-face meetings can make all the difference when building trust and showing commitment. Consider spending a few weeks or months in hotspots like San Francisco or New York during your fundraising. You’ll connect with investors, network with industry leaders, and get a closer look at the market. Being on the ground signals you’re serious about the US and can boost investor confidence.

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2. Master the US fundraising process

The US fundraising scene moves fast. Investors expect you to stay organized, communicate clearly, and keep the momentum going. Here’s how to meet those expectations:

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Go with SAFEs for simplicity

SAFEs (Simple Agreements for Future Equity) are popular in the US for a reason: they’re quick, founder-friendly, and don’t involve repayment or interest like convertible notes do. Using a standard SAFE template for all investors can speed up the entire round and minimize legal obstacles.

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In Czechia or Slovakia, early-stage rounds often lean on convertible notes or equity deals, which can be more complex. SAFEs cut through a lot of the back-and-forth, making them a go-to choice for US investors.

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Create FOMO with your investor meetings

Here’s a simple trick: schedule as many of your investor meetings as possible within a tight one- or two-week window. This tight schedule creates urgency and FOMO (fear of missing out). When investors see others are interested, they’re more likely to move quickly. It also shows you’re in high demand, which is an advantage in a competitive market like the US.

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Dream big and plan big

US investors tend to write big checks, but they also expect a clear plan for how that money will be used. Aim for 12–18 months of runway and show how you’ll spend the funds on growth—like customer acquisition, product development, or hiring. Having a concrete plan for that next year or so gives investors confidence in your roadmap and your ability to scale.

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Set clear expectations about what you need

Be upfront about your valuation, your expected timeline, and what you’ll do with the money. Don’t make unrealistic promises. If something is still in flux, say so. Investors value transparency over hype. Clear, honest communication keeps everyone aligned and avoids headaches later.

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3. Build relationships with US investors

In the US, it’s not just about showing a great product—it’s about showing you, the founder, are worth betting on. Strong relationships are key:

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Connect with Czech and Slovak networks

Look up founders who’ve successfully raised in the US. They’ve been in your shoes and can make warm introductions or share valuable insights. Communities around Slovak PRO or CzechInvest in San Francisco are great places to start. They’ll connect you with others who’ve already navigated the US fundraising journey.

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Join US startup events

Nothing beats meeting people face-to-face. Events like SF Tech Week or SXSW let you network with investors, peers, and potential mentors in one place. You can pitch your business, gain direct feedback, and strengthen relationships much faster than you would online.

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Target strategic angel investors

Look for angel investors who offer more than just cash—those who can help you with their industry knowledge, advice, or connections. The right angel investor can open doors to new customers, partners, and even more funding down the line.

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4. Legal and financial considerations

Raising capital isn’t just about the pitch—it’s about making sure your business can handle growth. Show investors you’re serious by covering these bases:

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Prepare your data room

Investors will want to dig into your company’s details before signing a check. Get a data room ready with key documents like your cap table, financials, IP ownership, and contracts. Make sure your employee and contractor agreements assign IP rights to the company. This level of organization tells investors you have your house in order.

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Protect your intellectual property

Your startup’s IP is one of its biggest assets, so secure it early. That means trademarks, patents (if relevant), and NDAs for sensitive info. If you have a tech-heavy product or any unique innovation, documented IP protection is a major plus for US investors. They’ll appreciate that you’re safeguarding the core of your business.

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Understand US tax implications

If you’ve done the US flip, get professional advice on tax matters right away. Poor planning can lead to unwelcome surprises and tax liabilities, and you don’t want that. Investors want to see you’re handling the finance side responsibly. Plus, a tax-efficient structure means you’ll have more resources to put back into growth.

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In a nutshell

Raising capital in the US can give Czech and Slovak startups a major edge: bigger funding rounds, higher valuations, and faster global scaling. To make the most of it, start by aligning with US investor expectations—flip into a Delaware C-Corp, sharpen your pitch deck with strong market data and growth metrics, and plan a temporary relocation to build real, in-person connections. Use founder-friendly tools like SAFEs, cluster your investor meetings for maximum FOMO, and map out exactly how you’ll spend the new funds over the next 12–18 months. Then, look beyond the money—target angels and VCs who can offer strategic advice, industry expertise, or valuable introductions. Finally, make sure your legal and financial house is in order: set up a data room, secure your IP, and handle tax implications early. With the right preparation, transparency, and local network, you’ll be well on your way to landing your first US round.

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Need help with fundraising in the US? We’ve got your back every step of the way. Explore our US packages to make your startup's journey smoother.

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