 When you talk to different financial and business advisors about getting access to finance, you’ll get similar but varied advice. It all depends on the business’ particular circumstances. RBSS Consulting, a business advice and consultancy firm, has helped raise funds for hundreds of small and medium size investors. The tricky, yet simple, ones are the Angel Investors. So I put the question to a panel of professionals and these were the answers given by the panel. Similar but still different. When you talk to different financial and business advisors about getting access to finance, you’ll get similar but varied advice. It all depends on the business’ particular circumstances. RBSS Consulting, a business advice and consultancy firm, has helped raise funds for hundreds of small and medium size investors. The tricky, yet simple, ones are the Angel Investors. So I put the question to a panel of professionals and these were the answers given by the panel. Similar but still different. Answer 1 The most powerful thing you can do is show operating profits. If you are in the early stages, show a compelling plan, prototype and comparable companies who are already in your market. Demonstrate how much and when cash flow begins. Remember that Angel Investors invest in people, just as much as the product or service. They are evaluating if the person who is raising the money has his/her heart and soul in the concept. Are they committed? If not, then they may turn you down. Being ‘all-in’ is the only way to be when building a company, particularly when it involves other’s money. Assuming you are totally dedicated to making this a success, and depending on what your product is, start selling as soon as you can. There’s nothing that inspires investors more than a sales ramp. If selling you’re not good at selling, invest some money in someone who can. And finally, don’t give up. It is likely that you will be making many presentations to angel groups before you find the right one. Don’t give up! Answer 2 When approaching an Angel Investor network, I recommend that you enter the opportunity seeking to build a relationship above all. Plan your first meeting as an introduction only and follow up with a second meeting when you pitch your offer. As much as you need the investment, don’t act desperate. If you have a partner in your business, then perhaps use them to make the pitch with you. Two people sometimes appeal more to a group of investors. Make sure you have practiced your pitch thoroughly so that you are both on the same page. Try to connect through social media networks. Answer 3 Angel investors look for high quality business cases supported by financials with scenario planning – optimistic, realistic and pessimistic. They need to understand the promoters understanding of business and ability to read the unfolding environment and marketplace. Some investors are keen to see what personal wealth has been put behind the idea and the passion displayed to go for the concept over long term. Answer 4 Have a great idea. Know your numbers inside and out. Appeal to their generosity and how the business will benefit from their support. Show them why it is a great investment and why you are worth it. Answer 5 The biggest mistake that businesses make when approaching investor is to spend 90% of the time talking about the product and 10% of the time on the financials. You need to reverse the percentages if you want to engage investors. If you want to talk it through with a professional business adviser first, contact RBSS Consulting. We offer you real business advice and solutions. For more information contact RBSS Consulting at [email protected] or 0333 355 1696. Business Consultants Romford | Business Consultants Hornchurch | Business Consultants Upminster | Business Consultants Brentwood | Business Consultants Barking | Business Consultants Dagenham | Business Consultants Ilford | Business Consultants Stratford | Business Consultants London
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