How do I raise funds effectively?

Most companies need an injection of cash at some time. Starting up, acquiring new plant or premises, growing through mergers and acquisitions, or expanding into new markets – they can all benefit from additional funding.

But potential investors will need to know where their money is going. And, more importantly, how much they’ll get back, and when. You need to provide a clear, well thought-out and detailed business plan.

Making a convincing case

A good presentation to investors can make the difference between success and failure. The key is thorough preparation. As the 18th century American philosopher, Wayne Burgraff, is credited with saying: “It takes one hour of preparation for each minute of presentation time.” While this is possibly a useful guide, the actual content and format of the presentation are more important than the time taken.

The objective is to provide detailed, but digestible, information that helps potential investors make an informed judgement as to whether their investment will bring them the returns they need. Key factors to consider include:

• What are the sector/industry drivers?
• What are the growth prospects for your business?
• What is your business’s USP?
• How strong is your management infrastructure?
• How well are your company’s brand assets being promoted, protected and, if necessary, enhanced?

Whatever your motivation for seeking funds, we can help and guide you through the entire process from start to finish, acting as the link between you and the investor.

Our role will be to:

• project manage the confidential release of documents to potential investors
• carry out due diligence as part of the pre-investment process
• obtain High Net Worth Individual (HNWI) and Sophisticated Investor certification
• maintain compliance with the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) guidelines
• ensure interested parties sign non-disclosure agreements
• negotiate the terms of the investment on your behalf
• advise on relevant tax-planning areas, including SEIS, VCT and EIS.

You’ll benefit from our many years’ experience working closely with owner-managed businesses and small to medium-sized companies, helping with growth aspirations, strategic planning, funding, mergers and acquisitions, and exit strategies.