New Economy Review

Early Stage Funding

2 articles

Editorial illustration for SAFE or Convertible Note? A Founder's Decision Framework for Early-Stage Funding
Venture & Growth

SAFE or Convertible Note? A Founder's Decision Framework for Early-Stage Funding

Founders deciding between SAFEs and Convertible Notes for early-stage funding can use a decision framework based on speed, investor preference, round size, and debt tolerance. While SAFEs offer simplicity and speed, Convertible Notes provide structure preferred by some investors or for larger rounds.

Mina Kim·October 26, 2026
Editorial illustration for Choosing a Startup Valuation Method: Match the Method to Your Stage and Your Data
Startup Playbook

Choosing a Startup Valuation Method: Match the Method to Your Stage and Your Data

Early-stage founders should select startup valuation methods that align with their company's current stage and the quality of available data. This guide explains the Berkus, Scorecard, and Venture Capital methods, offering a decision matrix to help choose the most appropriate approach for pre-seed to Series A companies.

Mina Kim·October 24, 2026