Startup Postmortem Database
Searchable database of startup failures, what killed them and the lesson.
Building a startup? Study why famous companies failed and the lessons behind them so you can avoid the same expensive mistakes.
About Startup Postmortem Database
The fastest way to avoid an expensive mistake is to study the ones others already made. This searchable database collects notable startup failures, what killed them, and the lesson founders take away.
How to use Startup Postmortem Database
- 1Search or use the filters to narrow the startup-postmortem database.
- 2Click any column heading to sort and rank the entries.
- 3Export the results to CSV for your own analysis.
- 4Spot something missing? Add an entry β it stays in your browser.
Why use Startup Postmortem Database?
- βA curated, searchable startup-postmortem database you can filter and sort in seconds.
- βExport the results to CSV for your own spreadsheets and reports.
- βAdd entries we're missing β your additions stay private in your browser.
- βCompletely free, with no account or download required.
Frequently asked questions
Why do most startups fail?+
The most common reasons are no real market need, running out of cash, weak unit economics and being out-competed. The database tags each failure by its primary cause.
Can I learn from startup postmortems?+
Yes β recurring patterns are visible across failures and are far cheaper to learn from second-hand than first-hand.
Is the startup postmortem database free to use?+
Yes. It is completely free, runs in your browser and needs no sign-up. Any data point you add stays on your device β nothing is uploaded.
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