SETsquared workshop: Exploring Bootstrapping and Alternative Funding Paths

Workshop overview

Not every Founder is built for the investor track — and not every startup idea aligns with the expectations of VCs or angel investors. If you’re looking to retain control, move at your own pace, and grow sustainably, bootstrapping might be your best path forward.

In this workshop, we’ll explore the benefits and challenges of bootstrapping, share real-world founder stories, and dive into alternative funding options you can leverage to build and scale without giving up equity or vision.

Speaker

Stewart Noakes, Entrepreneur in Residence

Participants

This workshop is designed for first-time founders — including those launching startups or spinouts — who are exploring alternatives to traditional funding routes like venture capital or angel investment.

Agenda

Getting started

Overview of startup funding options: bootstrapping vs. traditional funding

Why some ideas and founders are better suited to alternative paths

Why startups fail and how to beat the odds

What Bootstrapping Really Looks Like

• Realistic expectations: time, growth, and resource management

• Mindset and skillset needed for bootstrapped growth

Alternative Sources of Funding

• Grants (local, national, EU-level if applicable)

• Revenue-based financing

• Crowdfunding (rewards-based, equity, donation)

• Accelerators and incubators with non-dilutive support

• Soft loans and government schemes

Practical Strategies and Tools

• Building lean: MVPs, customer validation, and early revenue

• Monetisation strategies from day one

• Tools for managing operations on a tight budget

Community & Support Networks

• Finding co-founders or collaborators

• Leveraging founder communities and networks

• Free or low-cost mentorship opportunities

• Free or low-cost advice opportunities

Learning objectives

• Clarity on whether bootstrapping is right for them

• Knowledge of viable alternative funding options

• Practical Tools to start and grow an idea without external investment

• A personalized funding roadmap

Connections to Like-Minded Founders, Advisors and Support Networks

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