Startup Cost Calculator

Don't let hidden costs stall your launch. Map out your setup capital and runway needs with professional precision.

One-Time Capital

$7,000

Initial setup & equipment

Monthly Burn Rate

$3,700

Running costs per month

Total Funding Needed

$29,200

Capital for 6 months runway

Add Expense Item

Description

Amount ($)

One-Time Setup Costs$7,000

Incorporation & LicensesLegal & Admin

$1,500

Computers & SoftwareEquipment & tech

$3,000

Branding & WebsiteMarketing & Sales

$2,500

Monthly Recurring$3,700

Rent & UtilitiesOffice & Rent

$1,200

Founder SalarySalaries

$2,000

Ads & Social MediaMarketing & Sales

$500

Runway Strategy

Cash Reserve6 Months

How many months should you survive without any revenue? Standard approach is 6-12 months.

Base Setup$7,000

Runway Fund$22,200

Final Target$29,200

Startup Tip

Don't forget a 10-15% Contingency Fund. Unexpected permits, delay in equipment, or higher marketing costs often bite new founders.

Planning Your Launch

Most startups fail not because of a bad idea, but because they run out of cash. Understanding your Burn Rate and Setup Capital is the first step toward building a sustainable venture.

Capital Categories

Asset Acquisition: Computers, specialized tools, and initial inventory.
Admin & Legal: Company registration, trademarking, and first permits.
Marketing Launch: Brand identity, landing pages, and initial ad spend.

Runway Strategy

Working Capital: Buffer for rent, utilities, and payroll before revenue starts.
The 6-Month Rule: Professional investors recommend having at least 6 months of runway.
Contingency: Always add 10-20% for the unexpected.

Strategic Advice

"A common mistake for first-time founders is overspending on furniture and office space. In the early days, prioritize capital for product development and customer acquisition."

Entrepreneur FAQ

What are one-time vs recurring costs?

One-time costs are setup expenses (incorporation, logo design). Recurring costs are monthly bills (rent, software, salaries) that repeat regardless of sales.

How much runway do I really need?

While 6 months is standard, businesses with long sales cycles (B2B SaaS) often need 12-18 months of runway to reach profitability.

should I include my own salary?

Yes! A common mistake is working for free during launch. Even if you don't take it immediately, track what the business owes you or what you need to survive.