4 Essential Strategies for Early-Stage Startup Growth w/ Ellen LoBiondo, Bowery Capital
Sometimes you need to slow down to speed up
One of the top reasons startups struggle to raise their Series A is failing to meet revenue milestones. At Bowery Capital, the focus is clear: early success comes down to driving revenue and customer growth. To support this, their Acceleration Team offers a suite of tools and resources tailored to help startups scale effectively.
Ellen LoBiondo, Director of Growth at Bowery Capital, works hands-on with founders to sharpen their strategies and achieve sustainable growth.
Here are her 4 essential tips for early-stage founders aiming to hit their revenue goals:
1. Build a Go-to-Market Playbook
Start documenting your processes early, including:
Ideal Customer Profile (ICP): Clearly define your target audience.
Sales Process: Outline how you’ll engage prospects and qualify leads.
Iterative Testing: Regularly refine your approach for better results.
Why it matters: A detailed playbook simplifies founder-led sales and becomes valuable training material for your first sales hires.
2. Focus on Your First 10 Customers
Your first customers shape your story. Be selective and ensure they:
Align with your long-term vision.
Are accessible through network introductions or focused outbound efforts.
Pro tip: Avoid spreading yourself thin with random outreach—focus on meaningful connections.
3. Use Tools Strategically
A robust tech stack is helpful, but Ellen warns against overcomplicating things early on. Essentials include:
CRM Systems: Foundational for organizing and tracking sales efforts.
AI Tools: Use technology to enhance efficiency, not replace authenticity. Tools like Clay or Ocean help with ICP research and account building but avoid AI that impersonates your voice or brand.
Takeaway: Use tools strategically to save time and maintain a personal touch in your outreach.
4. Build a Strong Advisory Network
A diverse advisory group can bridge skill gaps and unlock new opportunities. Include:
Experts and Leaders: Industry specialists who complement your team.
Network-Driven Advisors: Those who can generate leads and introductions.
Takeaway: Structured agreements with advisors can lead to tangible outcomes.
Slow Down to Speed Up
Ellen emphasizes intentionality—rushing early stages leads to inefficiency. By investing in detailed processes, tools, and relationships, founders can scale smarter and prepare for long-term success.
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