MVP cost calculator

MVP cost is the spend needed to reach first real user learning.

Fill four cost buckets and a contingency percent.

MVP cost calculator

Inputs

Results

Base total —
Budget with contingency —

Budget the MVP in buckets

What is it?

MVP cost is the spend needed to reach first real user learning.

Why it matters

Keeps Must-scope aligned with budget and runway.

How it works

Fill four cost buckets and a contingency percent.

Formula Total = (design + engineering + infra + GTM) × (1 + contingency%)

Why you’ll love this

Bucket the spend needed for first real learning so Must-scope fits the budget.

How to jump in

  1. Fill the buckets

    Design, engineering, infra, GTM.

  2. Set contingency

    Budget buffer for risk.

  3. Read totals

    Base and total with contingency.

What you walk away with

  • Clear buckets
  • Built-in contingency
  • Links to MVP Scope
  • IRR/USD

Where it shines

Before build

Lock budget after MVP Scope.

Seed fundraising

Defendable use-of-funds number.

Path comparison

Pair with Development Cost and Break-Even.

Quick answers

What is GTM?

Go-to-market costs like launch, content, and early acquisition.

Replace Development Cost?

No — this is total MVP budget; Development Cost is people × time.

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