Jason Demant's gamified fundraising process for startup founders is a practical method for easily systematizing the fundraising journey, building motivation by accumulating points like a game. The key is using a simple CRM spreadsheet and repeatedly executing toward a weekly point target. This is a highly recommended approach for founders who want goal-oriented mindset and continuous improvement throughout their fundraising process.

1. Managing Fundraising Systematically, 'Game-Style'

Author Jason Demant, drawing on extensive experience coaching startups to successful fundraises, says he frequently gets asked: "What does a proper fundraising process look like?" While Twitter and VC blogs say 'run a process,' founders are often lost on how to actually do it. Demant created a gamified fundraising process that anyone can follow.

"Founders all ask the same question: 'How do I actually run a proper process?'"

The core of this process is to systematically organize investor conversation status, assign 'points' at each stage, and check progress like a game. The most important tool in this process is a simple spreadsheet CRM.

2. Start Simple! Introducing the CRM and 'Stages'

First, you need to manage all investors you're currently in conversations with in one place. Demant provides a free Investor CRM Template, where 'stage-based management' begins.

Each investor moves through the following stages, accumulating points along the way. In other words, every time there's progress with an investor, you immediately see a small win and stay motivated.

3. Stage-by-Stage Progression and Point Accumulation Guide

• Stage 0 (Research Stage) You're here if you're still researching investor information. Adding one investor earns 0.5 points.

• Stage 1 (First Contact or Intro Request) Once you determine an investor is a fit, reach out directly or request an introduction. Making one contact earns 0.5 points.

  "This stage is about what I can directly control — sending the email is what matters."

• Stage 2 (Response Received) When you get a reply from an investor — positive or negative — you earn 1 point.

  • If negative, move them to 'Monthly Update' or 'Pass' section.
  • If positive, you enter the stage of scheduling a meeting!

• Stage 3 (First Meeting Scheduled) Once an actual meeting is confirmed, earn 1 point. "The easiest way is to drag the entire row down in the spreadsheet." (Author's note)

• Stage 4 (First Meeting Completed) Completing the first meeting earns 1 point. If there's no progress after the meeting, move to 'Pass.' If things are moving forward, continue providing weekly updates.

• Stage 4.5 (Next Meeting Scheduled) When a follow-up meeting is set, move to this stage. No additional points.

• Stage 5 (Second Meeting Completed) Completing a second meeting earns 2 points. From this stage, you're getting closer to due diligence and investment decisions.

• Stage 6 (Investment Confirmed!) A confirmed investment earns a whopping 5 points!

  "The money hasn't hit the bank yet, but you're almost there. However, if the investor changes their mind, you need to move them back and deduct 5 points."

4. Execute Weekly! The 'Drip Drip' Philosophy and Action Targets

Demant emphasizes the power of consistency.

"I believe in the 'drip, drip, drip' philosophy. Do a little every day and it quickly adds up to big results."

Recommended Execution Approach

• Target: Aim to earn 20 points per week
• Time limit: An 8-week process is ideal. If you want to shorten it, raise the target score to 40+ points!

The biggest advantage of this approach is that it's 'small and specific' enough for anyone to follow. You can accumulate results while juggling fundraising alongside coding, sales, customer management, and other responsibilities.

5. Level Up! Building an Accountability Partner

It's important to review your progress each week, and having an 'accountability partner' is effective for increasing responsibility. A friend, colleague, or even author Demant himself can fill this role.

"Check three things at a set time each week: points earned in the last 7 days, who made the most progress and what's next, and goals for next week."

Checklist

1. How many points did you earn in the past week?
2. Who made the most progress and what's the next step?
3. What's on the to-do list for next week? (e.g., add top-of-funnel investors, send updates to Stage 2 investors, etc.)

Conclusion

Demant's gamified fundraising process is a method of starting small and growing steadily and gradually. A single spreadsheet and small weekly point accumulations ultimately become the foundation for fundraising success. Take on your fundraising challenge with this low-pressure, accountability-driven approach!

"Wishing you success!"