Fundraising & MVP Development Without a Technical Co-Founder? – Sebastian Wengryn, Contracthero

About this episode

Sebastian Wengryn and his co-founder have proven it's possible: they founded Contracthero, a digital contract management software, without a technical co-founder on the team. In doing so, they challenge the widespread assumption that fundraising is impossible without a technical co-founder.

Digital Contract Management as a Business Idea

Contracthero develops software solutions for digital contract management. The idea emerged from practical experience – Sebastian and his co-founder recognized the problems and inefficiencies in traditional contract management and saw an opportunity for a digital solution.

Despite the obvious need, they deliberately started without a technical co-founder. This decision is often viewed critically in the startup scene, as technical expertise is considered indispensable.

The Path Without a Technical Co-Founder

The crucial question was: When is the right time to know that the idea is viable and needs technical support? Sebastian and his team approached this strategically:

• –Initial drafts and prototypes: Without a technical background, they developed initial concepts and designs
• –Feedback loops: Through continuous optimization based on user feedback, they refined their concept
• –Market validation: They quickly positioned their product in an already existing market

The key was proving market relevance before investing in technical development.

Convincing Investors Without a Technical Co-Founder

The biggest challenge was convincing VCs and angel investors without a technical co-founder. Sebastian's approach was to focus on other strengths:

Market understanding: Deep understanding of the problem and target audience Business focus: Clear vision of how the business model works Execution strategy: Concrete plans for how technical development would be implemented

Instead of viewing the lack of technical expertise as a weakness, they presented their strengths in market understanding and business development.

From Idea to Funding Round

After successful prototype development and collected feedback, the next logical step was the funding round. Sebastian shares the concrete details of their financing and shows how they managed to win over investors despite initial skepticism.

An important factor was transparency with investors: they openly communicated their plans for technical implementation and demonstrated how they would compensate for the missing technical expertise through strategic partnerships or hiring.

Current Market Changes as a Challenge

Like many startups, Sebastian and his team are also dealing with current market changes. The funding landscape has shifted, and investors have become more selective. This makes it even more important to have a compelling story and clearly communicate your strengths.

Conclusion: Courage for the Unconventional Path

Sebastian Wengryn and Contracthero demonstrate that it's possible to successfully found a company and secure funding even without a technical co-founder. The key lies in:

• –First understanding the problem and the market
• –Developing and validating prototypes
• –Transparent communication with investors
• –Focusing on your strengths rather than weaknesses

The story of Contracthero encourages founders who find themselves in a similar situation: a missing technical founding member doesn't have to be a knockout criterion if you master the other aspects of the business and have a clear vision for technical implementation.