How to value a pre-revenue SaaS startup and navigate early funding terms?

[Oliver_T]

I'm a technical co-founder of an early-stage SaaS startup, and we're preparing for our first serious round of startup funding. We have a working MVP and some pilot customers, but I'm struggling to navigate the landscape between angel investors, venture capital firms, and even grant opportunities. My main concern is giving away too much equity too early or accepting terms that could hinder our growth later. I'd appreciate advice on how to realistically value our company at this pre-revenue stage and what key terms to look out for in a first funding agreement.