Build an early-stage startup
This learning path is for early-stage startup founders, and anyone working on an idea for a startup. It acts as a guide to the core business concepts you need to know to launch a successful startup.
The modules are based on industry best practices. The content also draws from the deep experience of the Microsoft for Startups team and from the knowledge of thought leaders such as Eric Ries, Steve Blank, Ash Maurya, Paul Graham, David Bland, and Cindy Alvarez.
By completing this learning path, you'll acquire an understanding of:
- Startup fundamentals.
- Validating your startup idea with customers.
- Getting to revenue.
- Naming and branding.
- Building your team.
- Fundraising for your startup.
- How to pitch your company.
You'll also learn what actions are likely to increase the chances of your startup being successful, and what common pitfalls you should avoid.
Prerequisites
None
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Modules in this learning path
This module gives an overview of startup fundamentals and core business concepts you'll need to launch a successful startup.
This module shows you how to test and validate your startup idea by interviewing customers and running experiments.
This module explains the most common startup revenue models and gives practical tips on how to generate your first customer revenues in your startup.
This module covers practical tips for naming your startup, creating a strong brand, and avoiding the most common branding mistakes.
This module gives practical advice on how to build your startup team, including how to find cofounders and recruit your first employees and contractors.
This module describes the process of raising money from early-stage investors and gives practical advice on how and when to approach different types of investors, such as angel investors and venture capital funds.
In this module, you'll learn how to deliver compelling pitches to investors and other key audiences, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.