Mastering Fundraising

Speaker: Ms. Pocket Sun

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Fundraising with a Growth Mindset

Preparing for a Raise

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Understanding the Investor’s Mindset

• Investors Tend to Procrastinate

  • They often wait to act; your role is to maintain momentum.

• Push for Engagement

  • Investors appreciate being challenged and want to learn something new from you.

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Choosing the Right Moment to Raise Funds

• Optimal Timing
  • The best time to raise funds is when you don’t necessarily need the money. Focus on value creation.

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Setting Up a Winning Round

1. Star Soft: Initiate connections subtly.
2. Clarify Your Goals: Know why, how much, and for how long you need funding.
3. Identify Ideal Investors: Create a targeted list of potential investors.
4. Leverage Introductions: Get your network to facilitate introductions.
5. Set Rules for Waitlisted Investors: Establish guidelines for those waiting for opportunities.

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How to Show Up Effectively

• Cultivate Curiosity: Approach the process with a mindset of learning and discovery.

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The Importance of Following Up

• Rejection as a Learning Tool
  • View rejection as an opportunity. A "no" doesn’t mean the end; it means not with you at this moment.

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Navigating Term Sheets

• Key Considerations:
  • Compare term sheets carefully.
  • Seek trusted advice.
  • Conduct due diligence on investors.
  • Understand valuation and dilution.
  • Assess chemistry with potential partners.
  • Be aware of unwritten terms.

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Closing the Loop

• Express Gratitude:

  • Thank those who supported you.
  • Consider sending a card or gift to your lead investor.

• Celebrate Your Success:

  • Host a small celebration to acknowledge your achievement.

• Communicate and Collaborate:

  • Set up a meeting with your lead investor to discuss expectations and milestones.

• Recharge:

  • Take a few days off to refresh before diving back into your work.