How to Find Pre-Seed Startups Before They Raise

A proven framework for discovering pre-seed startups using public data signals before funding announcements.

The best pre-seed deals are found before the company has a TechCrunch announcement. By the time a startup appears in a funding database, the round is often already oversubscribed. Here is how to find them earlier.

Step 1: Monitor GitHub Activity

GitHub is the highest-signal data source for pre-seed startups. A repository that gains stars rapidly, has consistent commit activity, and uses modern tech stacks signals a team building seriously. GitDealFlow tracks this automatically.

Step 2: Track Hiring Patterns

When a pre-seed startup posts its first job listing, it usually means they have raised or are about to raise. Job postings on company websites, LinkedIn, and AngelList are early indicators.

Step 3: Watch Patent Filings

For deep-tech startups, patent filings appear 12-18 months before products launch. The USPTO and EPO databases are free to search.

Step 4: Monitor Accelerator Cohorts

YC, Techstars, and sector-specific accelerators publish their cohort lists. Demo days are a concentrated deal flow moment, but the best deals are often found before the cohort is announced.

Frequently Asked Questions