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Do You Really Need Funding and Are You Ready?
Businesses need money to succeed, and it doesn’t appear out of thin air.
Some businesses have angel investors, while others seek loans or the support of an investment group. However, each business and situation is unique.
Not all businesses can thrive off a few individuals’ investment, nor do all businesses align with loan eligibility. Fortunately, there are other fundraising opportunities available, with more emerging daily. It’s important to have a basic grasp of what to do, what not to do, and what’s available.
1. Start with a clear idea
Many fundraisers and businesses fail due to lack of a clear plan or goal. Before fundraising, address the basic building blocks:
- Who are you?
- What is your purpose?
- What specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely goals do you have? (e.g., "raise $10,000 by December 1")
- What are your values?
- What is your company worth?
- What growth can you expect in the next year?
- What are your needs?
If you can’t answer these questions, you’re not ready to start fundraising. Investors need a clear sense of your identity, purpose, status, needs, and plans.
2. Explore your options
Familiarize yourself with all available fundraising options. Classic options like targeted mailings and product-based fundraisers are still strong today. Targeted mailings involve sending physical introductions and investment requests, while product-based fundraising involves partnering with another company to sell a product and receiving a portion of the profit.
For businesses serving a small or close-knit community, personal options like offering a service or hosting an event may be more beneficial. Car washes, social events, and crowdfunding through platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo are also popular choices.
3. Avoid pitfalls
Learn from previous fundraising mistakes. Understand the law and restrictions for product sales, mailings, and other options. Read the fine print before starting, especially if your goal might not be met. Ensure you’re selling a desired product that isn’t already saturated in the market.
4. Perfect your pitch
Craft a pitch that fits your company’s goals, strengths, and needs. Ensure it is engaging, succinct, and matches your business’s personality. Explain how the funding will be used and use real people and stories to generate interest. Consider creating a video to explain your mission and why you’re raising funds.
Social media is a powerful tool for disseminating information and creating relationships. Maintain a well-designed website and active social media accounts to inform and engage prospective investors and clients. Be present online, be informative, and be engaging. Use social media to draw attention to your fundraiser and give updates on its progress. Use visuals to show how the investors’ money is being used.
Above all, be honest. Be honest about your reality, needs, and intentions. A clear focus and well-articulated needs are essential for fundraising success.
Hello!
I’m Andrew Brooks, a seasoned finance consultant from the USA and the mind behind phonenumber247.com.
My career is built on a foundation of helping individuals and businesses thrive financially in an ever-changing economic landscape. At phonenumber247.com, my aim is to demystify the complex world of finance, providing clear, actionable advice that can help you navigate your financial journey with confidence. Whether it’s personal finance management, investment strategies, or understanding the nuances of market dynamics, I’m here to share insights and tools that can propel you towards your financial goals.
Welcome to my digital space, where every piece of advice is a step closer to financial clarity and success!