
Exciting news: more startups are getting over the hump between Seed and Series A.
More specifically, I mean recent seed cohorts are graduating to Series A at a higher clip.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝘁:
First column is when the startup raised its seed round
Black dot = percent of the cohort that had gotten to Series A within 12 months (fast)
Orange dot = percent of the cohort that had gotten to Series A within 24 months
Startups who raised seed in 2020 had really strong tailwinds from the macro environment to fly through early stage rounds.
Startups who raised seed in 2022 had no help from any tailwind.
More recently, seed startups have started to graduate to A at increased pace. I'd bet the 2025 cohorts look even better than the 2024 ones, which were already the best in 3 years.
Venture investors - how does your portfolio compare? LPs do enjoy hearing about strong markup rates, although some argue that you should also have a decently high loss ratio (which indicates you're taking enough wild bets to find the startup outliers).
DISCLOSURE: This communication is on behalf of eShares, Inc. dba Carta, Inc. ("Carta"). This communication is for informational purposes only, and contains general information only. Carta is not, by means of this communication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business or interests. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business or interests, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. This communication is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Carta does not assume any liability for reliance on the information provided herein. © 2026 Carta. All rights reserved. Reproduction prohibited.



