Got ideas buzzing about your business? Let's talk! Schedule a hassle-free, commitment-free consultation at your convenience. Whether it's a Zoom call, MS Teams meeting, or a good old-fashioned phone chat, we adapt to your style. In this initial conversation, share your business vision and queries. From there, we'll whip up a tailored proposal, open for your comments and revisions until it's just right. Give us a shout — let's see what we can achieve together!
For many nascent entrepreneurs, the greatest challenge is to secure adequate funding to take their venture from the kernel of an idea to a revenue-generating business.
This is particularly apropos for Tech Start Ups, where, in most instances, you are presenting an idea.
The good news is that there are investors out there that specialise in the critical early stage investment. However, it is a hugely competitive market, so it is vital that your pitch stands out from the crowd.
At the recent Richmond New Tech 2016, we had the chance to discuss with early stage investors and entrepreneurs the elements that increase the odds of a successful pitch.
For an investor in this space, they are invariably looking for new technology that is easily scalable. In the current market, innovation is the key.
Whilst not being a hard and fast rule, there seems to be a preference for a Business-to-Business proposition that has a recurring revenue element at the core.
There has been a Brexit effect which has made securing funding more difficult and, given the volatility in the currency markets, the Sterling investor is more comfortable with a proposal that shows income generated in Sterling.
At the end of the day, it is all about the pitch – your chance to make your idea stand out from the crowd. Gimmicks and gizmos do not cut it, the pitch must reflect the personality and belief system of the founders.
Practise makes perfect and it needs to be more than in front of a mirror or to friends and family. Reach out to experienced advisors who will critique and polish your presentation and with whom you can brainstorm why the investor might be inclined to say no and prepare answers accordingly.
The pitch must be backed by a tight business plan which shows that you have analysed the sector, have a clear vision for your idea, it’s competitive advantage and a strategy to get to market. All this supported by financial projections that are properly costed and realistic.
Like the pitch itself, the business plan needs a professional input either in crafting it or, at least, in reviewing it. As Dragon’s Den shows, a grasp of the numbers is essential to have a chance of success.
Finally, if you are in a situation where there are going to be multiple pitches in a day and you are given a choice, it can pay to pitch first. This allows you to set the agenda.
Assuming that the investor is in the United Kingdom, most likely they would want to utilise the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme or Enterprise Investment Scheme, dependent on the level of investment, which gives them an immediate tax break.
As a result, your company needs to be SEIS/EIS ready. Our ‘Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme – The Essential Guide’ is available to download for free here.
If you would like an initial call or meeting to discuss your circumstances, please email us at tech.hub@cooperfaure.co.uk to arrange a time. It is absolutely free and there is no obligation.
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