Traction
Measurable evidence that customers want and use your product.
Traction is the proof that a startup is gaining momentum — users, revenue, growth rate, engagement, partnerships or waitlists. It de-risks the investment and is often the single most persuasive thing a pre-seed founder can show. Different stages call for different traction signals.
Examples
A pre-seed app shows 5,000 signups and 40% weekly retention. — A B2B startup signs three paying pilots as early traction.
How it relates to The Startup Foundry
Traction underpins the entire Investability Report. The Foundry’s Action Plan helps you build and present the traction investors look for.