The full answer
Phasing starts in discovery, where Creuto helps separate what must exist at launch from what can wait. The first phase is usually an MVP that proves the core journey in 4 to 8 weeks. Each later phase, such as a second platform, payments, AI features or a partner portal, is scoped and priced when you are ready for it.
Milestone-based payments mean you pay as work is delivered and demonstrated, not all up front. Every two-week sprint ends with a demo of working software, so you can see what the money has produced before the next milestone is due and adjust priorities through the written change request process.
For founders before funding, lighter options exist: a product strategy workshop, an AI-assisted prototype or an investor demo built to a pitch date. These produce something tangible to raise against, and the design and code carry forward into the MVP rather than being discarded.
Creuto has delivered 150+ products that are live with real users, and its startup product engineering track covers strategy, prototyping, MVP, architecture, investor demos and post-launch iteration. Share your runway and goals on a discovery call and the team will propose a phase plan that fits.