In this study we test whether the same types of experiences that shape initial expectations also impact persistence during the startup phase of nascent ventures. Against the theoretical backdrop of expectancy theory we develop testable hypotheses about the relative impact of different types of experience on expectations for and persistence with a nascent venture. OLS regressions and competing risk analyses on data drawn from the combined US Panel Study of Entrepreneurial Dynamics support our predictions: Not all types of experiences impact expectations and persistence alike. We show that additional industry experience and managerial experience both increase income expectations and persistence with nascent ventures, but start-up experience inflates long-term income expectations while bearing little impact on persisting through the venture development process.