Debt financing is a type of funding where an investor lends money to a startup, and the startup promises to repay the debt with interest. Debt financing can be an advantageous choice for startups that want to preserve equity. Debt financing allows a business to leverage a small amount of capital to create growth, and debt payments are generally tax-deductible. However, debt financing often requires the borrower to adhere to certain rules regarding financial performance, referred to as covenants. Debt financing can be risky for businesses with inconsistent cash flow, as payments on debt must be made regardless of business revenue.

On the other hand, funding rounds are separate fundraising events businesses use to raise capital. Each round is named for the series of stock being issued, and the most common rounds are Series A, B, and C. In each round, a new valuation is done, and various factors, including market size, company potential, current revenues, and management determine valuations. The initial investment, also known as seed funding, is followed by various rounds, known as Series A, B, and C. A new valuation is done at the time of each funding round. Debt financing can be used at any stage, unlike equity financing, which only happens in certain rounds.

In other words, debt financing and equity financing are two major ways for startups to raise capital. While debt financing involves borrowing money that must be repaid with interest, equity financing involves selling a portion of the company to investors in exchange for funding. Both options have their pros and cons, and startups must evaluate which option is best for their business. Debt financing can be advantageous for startups that want to preserve equity, while equity financing can provide additional operating capital. Debt financing can be easier to obtain than equity financing, but it requires the borrower to adhere to certain rules regarding financial performance. On the other hand, equity financing has no payback requirements, but it requires dilution of ownership. Startups must consider their objectives, risk tolerance, and control requirements before choosing the financing option that seems more suitable for them.