James Fuller is the co-founder and CEO of Hnry, the Wellington-born digital accounting service that has grown from a dining room table and a few spreadsheets into one of Australasia’s largest accountancies. Today, Hnry employs 150+ staff across three countries, processes over $3bn in annual transactions, and has raised NZD$65m across six venture rounds from investors in New Zealand, Australia, and the US.
This guide distills founder-tested insights for first-time NZ entrepreneurs on whether venture capital is the right path—and how to raise it in a way that truly benefits your business.
James Fuller | Hnry
From First Raise to Fully Funded: Lessons from a Founder Who’ll Help You Do It Too
A practical roadmap for founders — from deciding if VC is right, to raising your round, to thriving with investors after the close.
The Founder’s Guide to Venture Capital
James’ Best Practice Fundraising Toolkit
Best practice distilled into frameworks and templates so that you can raise like James.
James’ Best Practice Fundraising Toolkit
Most first-time founders are blindsided — building a pitch deck can drag on for weeks or months, with endless feedback loops that stall growth.
James built these tools after years as an analyst living in PowerPoint — and then used it himself to close 6 funding rounds and $65M.
- Built by a founder who’s been there — not a consultant guessing from the sidelines.
- Efficient — days instead of months, clarity instead of endless revisions.
- Battle-tested and proven across multiple raises, investors, and stages.
Part 1: Is VC Right for My Startup?
Decide if venture capital is the right path, weigh it against bootstrapping, and use a checklist to know when you’re ready.
Part 2: The Fundraising Process
Learn how a raise really works—from shaping your story to targeting investors and navigating term sheets.
Part 3: Preparing for the Fundraise
Get practical steps for engaging investors—networking, warm intros, updates, and first meetings done right.
🆕 Part 4: How to Raise a Successful Round
Craft standout pitch and investor decks, master your presentation, and avoid common fundraising pitfalls.
Part 5: How It Feels to Run a VC-backed Startup
What really changes after you raise, how to get the most from investors, and what to do when relationships get tough.
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Accounting and tax automation for sole traders
Hnry is a New Zealand-based digital accounting service built for sole traders, freelancers, and contractors. It automatically handles tax payments, invoicing, expense tracking, and end-of-year filings—so users never have to worry about tax again. With a simple 1% pay-as-you-earn model (capped annually), Hnry combines automation with expert accounting support. It’s a stress-free, all-in-one solution for self-employed professionals who want to save time, save money and stay compliant.
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