Recently a good friend ask me for some tips on business strategy for raising angle equity or early round equity money for his successful young business. My answer:
What I would say without knowing a lot of details – assuming the money would really help you but you do not “have” to have it –
- Take money from someone who can do more than give money. Particularly if they can provide contacts into highly valuable areas that will take you a long time to access on your own. There is a lot of “business acumen” out there. If it is the right person that counts but not as much as sales growth/access (at least to me).
- You should do a cash flow of what your growth will be with the money. Discount it back and then you have something to start a “value” conversation with. Often that figure will be discounted 50-75% so a little “doable, pie in the sky” is a fair starting point for your projections.
- Have a divorce in the marriage agreement if possible. Know how you will get rid of the person/money if you need another round of financing, you don’t enjoy them, or if they do not provide the other things they were supposed to provide.
Certainly not complete, but a good starting point for thoughts on raising equity.
Gregory R. Caruso, JD, CPA, CVAHarvest Business Advisors
Business Brokers, Business Valuations, Business Transactions Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia
609-664-7955
gcaruso@harvestbusiness.com
www.harvestbusiness.com