VP Tools

Burn Rate & Runway Calculator

How many months until you run out of cash? Know exactly when to start fundraising.

15.2
months of runway
At your current burn, you run out of cash on June 14, 2027. Start fundraising by December 2026.
Net Burn
$33,000/mo
Zero-Cash Date
Jun 2027
Start Raising By
Dec 2026
Scenario Modeling
Cash Balance Over Time
When to Start Fundraising
COMFORTABLE 18+ mo Optional to raise. Build leverage.
PLANNING 12-18 Start networking, warm intros.
RAISING NOW 9-12 Active outreach. You need a lead.
URGENT 6-9 Bridge or extend. Cut discretionary.
CRITICAL <6 mo Cut burn hard. Bridge financing or wind down.
You are in: PLANNING WINDOW (15.2 months)
Methodology

Runway = Cash / (Expenses - Revenue). Fundraise-by date assumes 6 months to close a round. Revenue growth scenarios compound monthly. Hire cost assumes $8K/person/month fully loaded.

Framework adapted from YC Startup School, First Round Capital, and common VC guidance.

Companion Essay
When Runway Becomes a Weapon
→