A six-step guide to strategic cost-cutting

The journey of a founder is filled with both exhilarating highs and tough decisions. One of the hardest yet necessary exercises a startup may face is cost-cutting. In a post-VC bubble landscape, where cash efficiency is paramount, founders must adapt their financial strategies to ensure sustainability. In this episode of Sidekick, David (with the help of Mattheus) outlines a structured approach to reducing operational costs to extend runway and survive.

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TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Intro: Why cost-cutting is crucial for founders

(1:00) Common mistakes: The impact of high burn rates and weak product-market fit

(1:41) Six-step cost-cutting process

(3:36) Practical cost-cutting strategies

(4:49) Final takeaways

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Key takeaways:

1. A systematic approach to cost-cutting

Many founders mistakenly associate growth with immediate team expansion and increased operational spending. However, without a strong product-market fit (PMF), this can lead to unsustainable burn rates.

The six-step cost-cutting process involves:

• Analysing and reviewing every cost item over the last 12-18 months

• Categorising expenses into "nice-to-have" and essential costs

• Identifying opportunities to optimise recurring costs, such as consolidating software subscriptions

• Evaluating the timing of cost reductions to mitigate impact

• Making informed decisions on what to retain or eliminate

• Executing cost cuts strategically to minimise disruption

2. Practical Ways to Cut Costs

Cost-cutting isn’t just about reducing salaries or eliminating office space; it’s about being resourceful.

Some effective strategies include:

• Fractional roles & flexible work models: Instead of full-time hires, consider fractional leadership or a four-day workweek.

• Office space optimisation: Transition to remote work, share office spaces with startups, or switch to co-working spaces.

• Renegotiating contracts & payment terms: Vendors and suppliers are often more flexible than expected—transparent conversations can lead to better terms.

• Reducing marketing spend: Focus on leveraging existing pipeline and customers rather than investing heavily in new acquisition.

• Leveraging tax relief & grants: Many companies overlook government incentives and tax benefits that can extend their financial runway.

• Securing credit lines & factoring agreements: A strong financial safety net ensures better cash flow management.

• Using SaaS discounts & packages: Platforms like NachoNacho.com offer significant savings on essential SaaS tools.

3. The importance of financial discipline

Even if a startup has recently secured funding, maintaining a lean and efficient operation should remain a priority. Cash efficiency isn't just about surviving downturns: it’s a long-term strategy for sustainable success. Smart spending decisions from the outset ensure founders don’t find themselves in a reactionary cost-cutting mode later on.

Conclusion

Cost-cutting is an inevitable phase for many startups, but it doesn’t have to hinder growth. By following a structured approach and adopting resourceful financial strategies, founders can navigate this challenge while ensuring their businesses remain competitive. As always, keeping a lean mindset is crucial; regardless of how much funding you’ve raised.

Listen to the full Sidekick podcast episode here!