# $1.2M Without an MVP

Most founders believe you must have an MVP to raise funding.  
  
In reality? That’s a myth. Transparency Registry proved it with $1.2M raised in 9 months.  
  
When Chris LaFleur, CEO of Transparency Registry, faced development delays, the startup was running out of runway - and had no product to demo to investors.  
  
Instead of burning more budget on code, they partnered with [**Forcoda**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/forcoda/).  
  
👉 In weeks, we designed an interactive UX/UI prototype that looked and felt like the real platform.  
👉 We also created the visual identity - logo, landing page, and branding - giving the team a polished, investor-ready presence.  
👉 Chris pitched investors using this prototype - while many other founders showed “stick-figure” mockups.  
👉 Result: $1.2M Seed round closed in under 9 months.  
  
📊 Before Forcoda  
·  Pre-seed almost gone  
·  2+ years development timeline  
·  No demo-ready product  
  
📊 After Forcoda  
·  Prototype ready in weeks  
·  Clear investor + customer feedback early  
·  $1.2M raised in 9 months  
  
As Chris put it: “With Forcoda’s help, we were able to raise $1.2M in the seed round. Their wireframe development was impressive and didn’t lead to delays. Great communication and strong relationships are a top priority for them to make for a successful partnership.”  
  
✨Takeaway:  You don’t always need an MVP. You need clarity, validation - and the right partner.  
✨ Thought leadership: This story highlights a shift in how startups can approach funding - prioritizing validation and strategy over code, a mindset that smart founders are embracing today.  
✨ If you’re a founder looking to raise smarter (without wasting time and budget on code too early), let’s talk: [**https://lnkd.in/dxxsJfzv**](https://lnkd.in/dxxsJfzv).  
  
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