Raising money can be one of the most difficult processes for an early-stage company. Thankfully, there are alternative ways to gain investment. Here is an overview of the unlikely places to raise money

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Unlikely Places to
Raise Money

2. You need to raise money for your company.
But the common paths of either (a) banks,
(b) investors, or (c) VCs, are not working out.
While these are the popular ways to raise
capital, they are not the only ways.

3. Raising money can be one of the most
difficult processes for an early-stage
company.
Thankfully, there are alternative ways
to gain investment.

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NEED HELP RAISING
CAPITAL ?

5. 1. Participate in pitch
competitions
Universities, business schools, and other
organizations regularly host events for
entrepreneurs.
Winning one of these competitions can
provide much-needed capital without
diluting equity and can also attract other
angel or institutional investors.

6. 2. Crowdfunding
With the SEC adopting new rules,
you can now attract an entirely new
pool of potential investors.
Know exactly how you would like to
crowdfund – through equity or
through perks.

7. 3. Gather Early Adopters
The first customer is the only validation
you need. An early adopter that
believes in your mission can pay to
cover the initial costs of your business.
Just make sure that this buyer does not
take up all your resources and time.

8. 4. Government grants
There is a considerable amount of
public venture capital. Many states run
entrepreneurship programs that are
more agile than their federal
counterparts.
Many of these are involved in socially
responsible companies, as well as
advanced technology startups.

9. 5. Create a side business to
fund your main business
The Airbnb founder story is a popular
example. When they were first getting their
start, they had maxed out their credit cards
and could not get any more funding.
In response, they created a cereal brand
based on the 2008 presidential election:
“Obama O’s” and “Captain McCain”. Selling
this ad-hoc cereal was enough to hold the
company over. The rest is history.

10. 6. Family and friends
Talk to those closest to you about your business. Friends and family may
have more confidence in your ability to work on the idea when compared
to an investor.
Remember: this is not your money. So make sure to monitor this as you
would any professional investment.

11. 7. Talk to professionals –
bankers, accountants, or
financial advisers
The nature of their jobs could help
provide you with a straight path to raising
money.
Pitch your company and how much
money you would need to get
started/continue working. They may have
clients or connections that could help.

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