Capital Stack 101

Capital Stack 101: A Guide for Aspiring Developers Build a funder-ready capital strategy — before you ever make the ask.

Most aspiring developers don't lose deals because they lack a great project. They lose them because they can't clearly communicate how it gets funded.

The Capital Stack 101 Guide gives you the foundation, framework, and language to show up to any funder conversation with clarity and confidence — even if you're just getting started.

What's Inside:

• A plain-language breakdown of what a capital stack is and how it works
• The three types of capital every developer needs to understand (debt, grants, equity)
• A step-by-step framework for building your capital strategy from scratch
• Real examples of strong vs. weak funding narratives — and what makes the difference
• A pre-submission checklist to review before sending your strategy to any funder
• Guidance on aligning your ask with CDFIs, philanthropic funders, city programs, and equity partners

💡 Perfect for aspiring and emerging developers who want to walk into funder meetings prepared — not just hopeful.