6 Ways to Find Investors for Your Startup

You’ve decided to speak your business idea into existence and make it successful. The plan is written and ready for the next step – presenting it to the right people. The good news is that you can now find investors for your startup in many different ways. Plus, a wide array of business tips are available online. You should remember that kickstart funds for a startup don’t come overnight. However, with patience and persistence, you can form excellent connections and get your business ready to take off.

Know what the investors look for and prepare accordingly

You have to remember that many aspiring entrepreneurs, like you, are also on the hunt for investments for their startup ideas. This is why you have to bring your A-game whenever you have a chance to pitch your business idea and form potentially valuable contacts. So, take your negotiating skills to the next level before the meeting, and have your project ready to showcase. Remember that investors look for the next big thing worth their attention. That being said, prepare to explain why your startup is worth the investment.

1 – Build your social media presence

Make sure to begin promoting your business idea online once it’s ready. Your online presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn will play an essential role in your future networking. As a future CEO,  you need to master the art of online presentation and networking. Besides rookie entrepreneurs like you, connect with those who’ve been in the game for a while. Even one valuable business connection among hundreds of them can open some new doors for you and the business ideas you strive to turn into reality.

2 – Network with private investors

There are two main types of investors you should know of:

• Angel investors – These are investors that offer enough funds for a company that gets their attention. That being said, you must learn to pitch your idea within the first 30 seconds and present a solid business case with confidence. Bear in mind that angel investors often expect high returns.

• Venture capitalists – Once your startup is launched and established, you can contact venture capitalists. They can be of great help when you decide to expand your business, which requires more effort, risk, and money.

3 – Post your project on crowdfunding platforms

Another way to accumulate enough funds to launch your startup is through crowdfunding platforms:

• Donation-based crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe generate the money you won’t have to return.
• Reward-based crowdfunding is more likely to get you the money you need. You get the money for your business, and your donors receive a small reward from your startup.
• Equity crowdfunding includes an investor who acquires partial ownership of your startup through profit shares.

Explain your project in detail to those who would gladly support it with donations. However, before you post it on either of these platforms, think carefully about which one works best for you.

4 – Apply for Small Business Administration Loan grant

As an agency established to help small businesses, the SBA offers loans with low-interest rates. Only companies that fulfill all requirements set by the SBA can apply. This is yet another way to get a legit fund for your startup, in addition to investors and crowdfunding. However, take time to read about the SBA’s conditions and get the necessary documentation ready on time. Double-check everything before you officially apply for the loan.

5 – Attend important events

Events like WebSummit or TechCrunch Disrupt attract both CEOs in the making and investors. This is where people make crucial connections for their companies. So, attend the next big business event or meet-up, and have your pitch and confidence ready!

6 – Make the most out of your personal contacts

Think of a friend or family member who could help you connect with the right people from the business world. Furthermore, you can contact former professors with whom you remained on good terms. Usually, they have professional contacts that would do wonders for your business idea. Or, they might know someone who knows a reliable investor.

If no one in your immediate circle would be able to help you, focus on your social media presence. As already mentioned, your online presentation of a project and the professional connections you establish are essential.

Things to do once you find investors for your startup

In addition to business ideas and funding, decent office space is necessary to launch your startup. Consider hiring an expert realtor who can guide you through the real estate market and help you find the best office space. Remember that you will also need a warehouse storage facility you can use for as long as you need. Therefore, make sure to look up the companies that provide storage services at modest pricing.

Measures of precaution to keep in mind

There is an unofficial rule when looking for moving and storage services, and that is to do your research on each company you come across. Make sure they are reputable movers with high service ratings and clear work history. Don’t settle for any company that doesn’t have licenses to prove the legality of its work.

Tips on choosing the best warehouse company

Search for registered companies that have plenty of experience. Nowadays, modern storage solutions are not only spacious and sanitized but also climate-controlled. Therefore, no matter how long a business relocation lasts, all items wait inside storage with 24/7 optimal temperature. Before you rent a storage unit, request to see it in person. Furthermore, make sure you can have all-day access to stored items. That way, you’ll know if the quality of storage space is actually worth the coin.

Practice patience

It takes time to find investors for your startup and a place where you will keep items for your future office. That’s why patience will help you go through all challenges easily. Remember that becoming an entrepreneur is a process during which you never stop learning.