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Most businesses are funded at least partially through bootstrapping methods, especially in the beginning stages. While many entrepreneurs can figure out how to launch and grow a company using their own funds and creatively cutting costs, many business owners find themselves in need of additional funds to promote future growth. There are plenty of ways that entrepreneurs can obtain more funds, from traditional bank loans to borrowing money from family members or friends, but trying to attract investors is often a good strategy. Finding the right investor is extremely important, as an investor who is a good fit can help a company grow and thrive, while the wrong one may have a negative impact on operations. Researching the available options, reaching out to others in the industry, and crafting the perfect pitch can all help an entrepreneur attract the right investor.
1. Research Investment Types
There are different types of investors and investment types available for business owners. Before trying to pitch investors, it is crucial to determine exactly what the company needs and what they can offer in the deal. Working with an individual investor will be a much different experience than working with a large investment company. Angel investors are usually more flexible about the requirements that must be met before a loan is given, while a large venture capital firm may be more stringent. The industry can also play a role in what type of investor is most suitable, as many investors stick to one specific niche. For example, someone like Patrick Chung of Xfund specializes in helping companies funded by alumni of leading universities, while other investors may prefer to work with small business owners in rural communities.
There are plenty of ways that entrepreneurs can obtain more funds, from traditional bank loans to borrowing money from family members or friends, but trying to attract investors is often a good strategy.Click To Tweet2. Determine Investor’s Role
Investors can provide more than just money. The right investor will have industry experience and connections that can help the company grow. They will also be able to offer valuable advice about how to spend the investment. While some investors may want to have a seat on the board and be involved with the daily operations of the business, others may prefer to simply lend the money and act as a silent partner. Research the personality and preferred operating methods of each individual investor or venture capital company and figure out which style most preferred.
3. Utilize Networking Opportunities
Whether an entrepreneur realizes it or not, they have a network in place that can be utilized to grow their business. Reaching out to family members, friends, and other people in the industry can be a great way to obtain recommendations. If those avenues do not yield great results, then attending industry events can be a great way to meet people. While some business owners may dread attending conferences or shows where they will be forced to make small talk for hours, these events can actually be valuable opportunities to connect with others and gather information about investors.
4. Meet With Multiple Potential Investors
Searching for an investor willing to take a risk on a new venture can be daunting, and it may be tempting to accept the first offer that comes up in order to get started immediately. However, as long as the company is able to continue operating at a steady pace, it is ok to hold out and wait for the right investor if the first one or two options do not mesh with the company’s values or culture. As exciting as it is to receive an offer, it is a good idea to wait a few days to approach the deal with a clear head. Meeting with multiple investors can help an entrepreneur understand how to negotiate and establish realistic expectations.
5. Craft the Perfect Pitch
A sloppy, unprofessional pitch can result in investors passing over the opportunity without a second thought. The business plan and marketing plan should both be polished, updated, and professionally presented to make the best impression possible. The text and graphs should be checked by at least one other person for clarity and errors.
Laying everything on the table and asking for a loan from a stranger can be a nerve-racking experience for some business owners. It may be a good idea to practice the pitch multiple times in front of others and obtain feedback before going to the first meeting. The pitch should convey all the relevant information about the business, including financial projections, expected growth, industry trends, and the company culture. It should also highlight exactly how and when the investment will lead to growth and increased profits. Besides that, the entrepreneur should be prepared to ask plenty of questions about the investor’s experience and expectations. Failing to ask questions may leave the entrepreneur looking unprepared or inexperienced.
Meeting with potential investors is an exciting opportunity for many entrepreneurs. As long as the business owners have conducted enough research beforehand, have a solid plan in place, and found the right investor, they can increase their chances of success.
