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7 signals investors look for in startups in 2026

Capital is still available for startups, but the criteria have changed.

In Seven signals shaping access to capital in 2026, voices from across the funding ecosystem – VCs, angel investors, a grant specialist, a crowdfunding expert and a public market advisor – share how they now evaluate startups and where they see real opportunity.

For founders who want to understand how capital is evaluated, this article brings useful perspective on the funding landscape in 2026.

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Legal & accounting

Discipline owner: NJORD Law Form & Grant Thornton

Purpose

Ensure that all necessary business documents are in place, comply with legal requirements, and prepare the company for potential future investments.

To ensure that the startup can create reliable and accurate financial reporting and manage its liquidity, essential for conducting business and reporting to investors.

How?
  • 1:1 coaching on using accounting systems, reporting VAT/taxes, and setting up P&L budgets and liquidity budgets.
  • 1:1 coaching on how to use the tools and processes to be ready to attract, hire, and train new employees.
  • You will have access to templates that you can use as inspiration for employment contracts, director agreements, confidentiality agreements, etc.
Outcome
  • Budgets
  • P&L structure (Profit and Loss)
  • Tax including company structure
  • Financial reporting