It's really easy to find information about raising money from angel investors or VCs, but many people don't think about another important way to fund your startup: raising money from family and friends.
We asked members of the Young Entrepreneur Council what they wish they knew when they sought funding that they know now. Here are their suggestions, including finding the right investors, understanding legalities, and more.
When you are starting a business the first--and perhaps most important--question is whether it is the right time to raise capital. This is a good starting point for doing the analysis with your company.
The revenue stage is an exciting time, for both the entrepreneur and the investor. It's great for the entrepreneur since revenues can be applied toward operating costs. It is even greater for the investor since he now does not have to second guess if there are customers who are willing to fork over their money to buy your company's offering.
Instead of focusing on how much investment they get, startups should make something that solves problems. If they do, they'll get loyal customers, and that's more important than investors.
We asked members of the Young Entrepreneur Council what the worst VC meeting they had was and what they learned from it. From angry dinners to annoying yawns, here are their answers.
What if you didn't send your money to a faceless investment bank, but instead gave it to a local business? We spoke to author Amy Cortese about local investing, where people keep their capital within 50 miles of where they live.
William Shatner had an easier time battling Klingons than getting money for his film, "The Captains." Now that he's got a hit documentary on his hands, he's game to make more.
Before you start raising capital, there are five questions you need to answer to ensure success, and any proper "show me the money" checklist should include them.
