This study aims to address a gap in existing literature by focusing on human resource (HR) management practices in seed and early-stage startups. The central research question explores the strategies founders utilize to manage three key HR activities: hiring, development, and retention. Employing a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with startup founders. The study found that hiring often relies on affiliations, with some exceptions. Onboarding is typically informal or inexistent, and employee development occurs in unstructured settings. Retention hinges on cultural fit, cohesion and mainly non-monetary incentives such as skill development. The results indicate that HR activities in early stage startups are often interlinked.