How to Find Investors for your Startup (2024)

Finding investors for your startup involves several steps.

Here’s a guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Funding Needs: Determine how much capital you need and what stage your startup is at. Investors look for specific stages (seed, early-stage, growth), so tailor your approach accordingly.
2. Create a Compelling Pitch: Craft a clear, concise, and compelling pitch deck that explains your startup's value proposition, market opportunity, business model, traction, team, and financial projections.
3. Identify Potential Investors: Look for investors who specialise in your industry or have shown interest in similar startups. Use online platforms like Crunchbase, AngelList, LinkedIn, or PitchBook to find potential investors.
4. Network: Attend startup events, pitch competitions, and industry conferences. Networking can help you connect with potential investors and get introductions to their networks. Make sure to also attend industry events focused on your particular market, where you will find industry experts who you might be able to convert into angel investors for your business.
5. Angel Investors: Seek out individual angel investors who are often willing to invest smaller amounts in exchange for equity. Angel investor networks or platforms can be a good resource.
6. Venture Capital Firms: Research VC firms that align with your startup’s stage and industry. Look at their investment focus, portfolio companies, and partners to ensure a good fit. These are the easiest groups to research, so don't be lazy on this one - read online, look at LinkedIn, if the meeting feels important enough speak to 1-2 founders they have invested in previously.
7. Crowdfunding & Syndicate Platforms: Consider using crowdfunding platforms like Crowdcube, Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or equity crowdfunding platforms where multiple investors contribute smaller amounts. You can also do a private crowdraise by using a platform like https://www.joinodin.com/.
8. Use Your Network: Leverage your existing network—friends, family, mentors, advisors—to find potential investors or get referrals to people who might be interested. The key here is to not just network linearly but to "Spiderweb" where you try to get at least 2 introductions from each person in your network and each new person you meet. This takes your game exponential - I may write a separate article just on this aspect, let me know in the comments if you'd like that!
9. Online Platforms and Forums: Engage in online startup communities, forums, and social media groups. Platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit, or startup-focused forums might connect you with interested investors.
10. Cold Emails, LinkedIn Connecting and Introductions: If you don’t have direct connections, craft personalised, concise, and compelling emails to reach out to potential investors. Also, seek warm introductions through mutual connections. www.linkedin.com is also a mega powerful tool for reaching out cold, especially if you have a decent number of solid industry connections - it's easier to get to 2nd degree connections. When you connect with someone on LinkedIn, I would suggest always adding the Personalise Your Invite by Adding a Note - this is essentially a free opportunity to get a short message into the inbox of anyone you want!

Remember, building relationships with investors takes time. Focus on establishing trust and demonstrating your startup’s potential to create value. Be prepared for rejections, as they're a part of the fundraising process. It's essential to keep refining your pitch based on feedback and learning from each interaction.

Please let me know in the comments if you want me to expand on any of the items above and drop any questions, comments or experiences related to the above!