If you are looking to raise money for your business venture, you will probably have to approach finance and investors. This can be quite a daunting prospect because most people do not like approaching investors for funding. We must remember that in order for investors to provide capital, they need to be convinced that your business has the ability to generate profits. In other words, if your business idea lacks sufficient market potential then there is no need for an investor. It’s much better to focus on generating customers and sales. After all, this is what funding and investors are primarily interested in.
Before you approach any funding sources, it is crucial to know what type of business you are. Do you have products that are not well received by retail stores? Or are you into a niche market where you may need funding for your start-up? There are certain funding sources that are geared towards specific types of businesses and industries. If your business is not into something that is readily available, then you can certainly obtain the funding you need through various sources.
You should know the type of business you are dealing with before you even approach investors. Are you dealing with a franchise? Is your company selling a product? Maybe it is a service such as accounting or teaching.
Whatever your industry is, you should make a good impression right from the beginning, no matter how good your business might be. The worst thing you can do is appear too eager to raise capital. Businesses that have too much on their shoulders can easily distract investors from their real objective – which is to provide capital to companies that need them. Present your company as being lean and very capable so that investors can see the potential of your company.
Another important thing you should bear in mind is that you need to look like a good business owner. You can easily attract financing through attractive brochures and business cards. But what impression do you want to give? How do you want people to view you? You definitely do not want to appear as someone who is more interested in raising money than in developing your business.
Before you start raising capital, you should discuss your plans with your banker, attorney, and other financial experts. This is a very important step. Be absolutely clear about what you intend to do. This will give the investors a clear idea of how much to lend you and how quickly you need the funds.
