Fundraising in 2026 – VC insights on what founders must get right

As the market heads into 2026, both founders and investors are reassessing how fundraising really works in a more selective environment.

In this webinar, Michael McDowell (SeedLegals) speaks with Boyd Carson from Sapphire Capital to share an investor-led view on how venture capital is being deployed today, what has changed over the past year, and how VCs are thinking about risk, conviction, and long-term value as they look ahead.

Founders are often fundraising based on outdated assumptions – while investors are navigating slower decision-making, tighter sector focus, and greater scrutiny on fundamentals. This misalignment can lead to wasted conversations, stalled rounds, and missed opportunities on both sides.

By understanding how active VCs are actually approaching the 2026 landscape – from cheque sizes and pacing to sector conviction and relationship-building – founders can raise more strategically, and investors can benchmark their thinking against peers. The result is clearer expectations, better alignment, and more effective fundraising conversations.

Key takeaways

Fundraising in 2026 will reward realism and preparation

• Funds are still investing, but decisions are more considered and conviction-led than in previous cycles.
• Founders who understand current market dynamics – rather than pitching last year’s story – are more likely to progress.
• Clear traction, capital efficiency, and a credible plan matter more than hype.

Cheque sizes and syndicates matter more than ever

• Many rounds are being built through a mix of lead investors, follow-on funds, and syndicates.
• Founders should think early about who they want to invest alongside – not just who writes the first cheque.
• Knowing typical cheque sizes helps avoid misaligned conversations and stalled rounds.

Sector focus is sharper, but good companies still win

• Investors are being more selective by sector, backing areas where they have deep conviction.
• That said, strong teams with genuine momentum can still raise outside “hot” sectors.
• A clear explanation of why your business wins now is essential.

Start building investor relationships well before you raise

• Many investments come from relationships built months – or years – in advance.
• Regular, thoughtful updates help founders stay top of mind when capital becomes available.
• Fundraising in 2026 will favour founders who treat it as a process, not a last-minute push.