Since launching ThatRound’s beta in March, we’ve seen how early-stage fundraising really works in the UK. Not the polished version, but the reality founders face when they start a raise. The biggest lesson? Speed doesn’t come from more outreach or louder hustle. It comes from clarity, fit, and feedback. This post shares what we’ve learned in our first year building the infrastructure for early-stage funding — and what it means for founders and investors heading into 2026.