10 Points to Evaluate before Raising Funds for Startup

Most of the time it becomes challenging for startups to define a starting point due to the financial constraints involved. The business always reaches a point where you need a venture capital. Sometimes, people indulge in the wrong avenue which to some extent is a waste of time and have a negative impact on their ideas. The following are some of the key highlights to bear in mind while raising funds for startup.

10 Keynote to take before raising funds for startup

1. Type of business

Some business ideas can form a sort of investment but these are not worth venture investment. Business potentials do vary and capital that leads to investing also varies. Some business might require bank loans when compared to the business returns. Understand the market size before raising funds for startup.

"I have learned to respect ideas, wherever they come from. Often they come from clients. Account executives often have big creative ideas, regardless of what some writers think" – Leo Burnett, founder of Leo Burnett Company

Also Read: 4 Practical Tips to Attract Investors- How to get Investors

2. Know the parties involved

Nobody would want to lose money. Before committing funds for investment, progress must be tangible. Venture investors will have several meetings so as to reduce the risks in the transaction. The risks are always minimal if you have ever worked with them before as they would know you. Of course, not all people you partner with are equal, but they assess mutual benefits in the deal before investing funds for startup.

Also Read: How to Do Market Research For Your Startup

3. Process of funding

Understand the dynamics involved in each funding aspect. Different venture firms have different processes and procedures for releasing funds. Approval of funds varies but mostly through meetings with partners. Cash requested will determine the number of meetings a venture will hold. Your presence sometimes is needed before funds get approved for your startup.

Read Also: List of 11 Best Crowdfunding Platforms for Startups

4. Self-start up funding

Venturing into a business with self-funding is very common. This gives a positive impression to the investors of your capability and seriousness to manage the business. People trust your ideas and are also willing to take risks. With self-funding, you get to take full control of the business unlike when you get venture capital where they are the ones who have managed it. This always develops a negative effect on your business which decreases potential sometimes.

"You don't lead by pointing and telling people some places to go. You lead by going to that place and making a case" - Ken Kessy, American novelist

Also Read: How to Raise Fund for Startup in India

5. Family and friends

Family and friends are people who know you and your strengths better. They chip-in to support your startup, although, with pros and cons attached. They might believe in your abilities but lack experience to bring on board. They might not be willing to lose money and relationships with them might become haphazard. Choose wisely who to go for support especially those who have knowledge about business as they understand the risks.

Also Read: Top Funded Startups India 2019

6. Execute right decision

Be clear about your business aspirations otherwise you can fail terribly. Understand what you really want (are you a small or big business entrepreneur) or become a boss on your own.

"Sometimes you make the right decision, sometimes you make the decision right" - Phil McGraw, American television personality

Top Startup Funding of this Year

7. Investor’s terms

When investors are interested and convinced, they offer the startup with the term sheet. This outlines the terms and conditions of the investment. This defines the company’s valuation and rights of the investor. All the terms accompanying the business are highlighted. This process will help them understand who you are. Startups should understand well what they are getting into.

Also read: List of Startups funded by Ratan Tata

8. Failure is part of learning

If you want to succeed you must work hard. Doing business should be fun. Challenges are there but how you handle them is what matters. Sometimes we fail and learn from our mistakes.

“Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker. Failure is delay, not defeat. It is a temporary detour, not a dead end. Failure is something we can avoid only by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing.” - Denis Waitley, American motivational speaker

Read Also: How to Make Money Online?

9. Engage with other entrepreneurs

Develop a relationship with other entrepreneurs. Be part of their discussions even if you don’t contribute anything. Even if you lack experience don’t develop any fear. You will get something positive to help your startup. Expose yourself, attend their conferences and practice what you learn.

Also read: Top Entrepreneurs of India

10. Organize your team

For your startup to function effectively, you must bring a lot of focus to your team. Most startups fail because of lack of reliable and up to the mark people. An organized and well-planned team functions efficiently.

Conclusion

In any startup, a key player is a mentor. They have enough experience to share, train and give relevant advise beneficial to the business.