Bootstrapping to $45K MRR: Why We're Still Saying 'No' to VC Money

I’m often asked the same question: When will you raise money?

My honest answer: hopefully never.

Choosing to bootstrap isn’t just a preference; it’s a strategic decision. Today, I’ll explain why staying independent is the best choice for us, and possibly for you too.

Real costs of venture capital

VC funding looks appealing—with big checks and rapid growth—but there’s a hidden cost:

• Losing significant control over your company

• Facing pressures to grow at unsustainable rates

• Experiencing dilution of your ownership through multiple funding rounds

The numbers often tell a harsh story: most founders end up owning only a fraction of the business they built.

Why bootstrapping makes sense

Bootstrapping is about playing the infinite game—focusing on long-term sustainability rather than short-term growth. It offers:

• Complete control over your decisions

• Healthy, organic growth without the stress of unrealistic expectations

• The freedom to prioritize customer satisfaction and product quality over immediate profit

At SavvyNomad, this freedom allows us to make choices based on what’s genuinely best for our customers and our business.

Why do we refuse VC money?

Our growth is steady, sustainable, and profitable. Bootstrapping aligns perfectly with our desired lifestyle:

• We grow at our own pace, driven by customer value, rather than investor mandates

• Our profits are reinvested into the business instead of being paid back to investors

• Our focus remains on quality and user satisfaction, rather than endless growth cycles

How to decide: bootstrap or raise?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Consider the following questions:

• Do I want rapid growth at the cost of control?

• Is my business model well-suited for rapid scaling?

• Am I comfortable with the pressures that come from investors?

Your responses will help you determine the best path for your unique situation.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences—are you bootstrapping, considering raising funds, or somewhere in between?