Bootstrap Startup Runway: $100K Cash, $20K Burn, No Revenue
A bootstrapped startup with $100K in savings and $20K monthly expenses has exactly 5 months of runway before funds run out.
How to use this tool
- Enter cash on hand, monthly revenue and monthly total expenses in the fields above.
- Results update instantly as you type — or click Calculate.
- Read your cash runway and the full breakdown beneath it.
Bootstrapped founders often operate on personal savings; this scenario models a solo founder or small team with 5 months to reach revenue or profitability.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between gross burn and net burn?
- Gross burn is total monthly cash spent. Net burn subtracts revenue, showing the actual cash consumed per month. Net burn is what determines runway — it tells you how long your current cash will last at the current spending pace.
- How can I extend my runway?
- Cut non-essential expenses, accelerate revenue growth, raise additional capital, or offer discounts for annual prepayments. A common rule of thumb: if runway drops below 6 months, take immediate action.
- What is a healthy runway?
- Most VCs advise maintaining 18–24 months of runway at all times to allow time for fundraising (which typically takes 6–12 months) without operating under distress.