How to Build a Bankroll from Scratch

Welcome to Betting School by Bet Journal—your go-to series for smart, real-world strategies to improve your betting game.

In this lesson, we’re focusing on a question almost every bettor has asked:
"How do I build a bankroll when I’m starting with almost nothing?"

This guide breaks down exactly what to do if you're starting with just $100—and want to grow it.

🔐 1. Keep Your Bankroll Separate

Treat your betting bankroll like your gym membership or Netflix bill: it's part of your personal hobbies, not your living expenses. Keeping it separate helps you stay rational when the wins (and losses) hit.

💵 2. You Don’t Need a Big Stack to Start

Think you need $5,000 to make a dent? You don’t. The truth is:
Good habits > Big bankrolls.

A solid edge will scale over time. If you're winning at small stakes, your profits will naturally grow with your confidence.

🎯 3. Know When to Bet Big

Not all bets are created equal.
Pros bet small most of the time—and go big only when there's clear value.

That 1-in-30 bet where your edge is undeniable? That’s where the real money comes in. The rest of the time, it’s all about preservation and patience.

🧠 4. Market Resistance = Information

If it’s too easy to get your full stake down—maybe the market knows something you don’t.

But if your bet struggles to get matched? That could be where the value lies.
Resistance is a signal.

📈 5. Manage Your Stakes Like a Pro

Here's a basic framework:

• High-variance bets (like golf outrights): 1–2% of bankroll

• Lower-variance bets (like match betting): Up to 10%

• Adjust only after long-term growth, not one hot streak.

Whatever you do, don’t let emotion lead your bet sizing. Stick to your plan.