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Funding approach

Context​

We have not started raising money. Before we do, we want a clear intended mix and order, even though nothing is committed.

Options considered​

The pathways in funding/pathways: crowdfunding, friends and family, small grants, major grants, founder capital.

Decision​

When we begin, lead with crowdfunding and friends and family for the setup capital, run small grants in parallel, and keep founder capital as the backstop. Hold major grants until we have an entity and a site. Treat a grants-hunting tool as a later aid, not a first step.

Why​

This fits a bootstrap with a modest network and no entity yet. It spreads risk and starts with the sources we can actually reach now.

Constraints​

  • No entity and no site yet, which rules out most grants for now.
  • Modest budget; founder capacity is real but limited.

Revisit when​

  • We decide to launch fundraising in earnest.
  • An entity and site exist, opening up grants.