How To Get An Investor

Raising capital is one of the most critical steps for growing your business, but it’s also one of the most challenging. As an Original Shark from Shark Tank, I’ve heard thousands of pitches, invested in hundreds of businesses, and raised millions of dollars throughout my career. If you’re looking for an investor, whether it’s an angel investor or a venture capital firm, here’s some guidance.

When you’re beginning your fundraising journey, the best place to start is often closer than you think: your friends, family, and business connections. It’s not about asking them for money directly, it’s about seeking advice.

For example, years ago I approached a wealthy uncle for his insights on raising capital. I wasn’t expecting anything more than guidance, but after hearing my idea, he was ready to write a check for $100,000. The lesson? Position your conversations around seeking advice rather than making a hard ask. People are often more willing to help than you might realize.

You can’t raise money sitting at home. You need to get out into the world and connect with the right people. Attend events, join meetups, and participate in masterminds. Organizations like EO (Entrepreneurs’ Organization) and YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization) are fantastic for meeting like-minded entrepreneurs and potential investors.

At masterminds, I’ve seen countless partnerships and deals come to life. Whether virtual or in-person, these events create an environment where investors are actively looking for promising opportunities. The more you network, the more you’ll refine your pitch and the closer you’ll get to securing capital.

Investors don’t just bet on ideas, they bet on people. Surround yourself with a powerful team to elevate your credibility. Imagine pitching with a board of advisors that includes the former president of a recognizable company, a founder who’s had a massive exit, and an expert with a stellar track record. That’s the dream team.

Having these experts by your side not only boosts your chances of securing funding but also shows investors that your business has the leadership to succeed. Sometimes, your dream team members will invest their own capital as well.

As you grow, your fundraising efforts should become more professional. This might include working with investment bankers, creating a private placement memorandum (PPM), or exploring public offerings. These professionals specialize in helping businesses raise capital, though they’ll often charge fees or take a percentage of the funds they help secure.

While this route can be more complex, it opens the door to larger sums of capital and a broader pool of investors. If you’re aiming to scale quickly, these formal methods can provide the resources you need.

Raising capital is a journey, but with the right strategy and persistence, you’ll find the partners you need to take your business to the next level!

Best,

Kevin Harrington

Co-Founder of Big Brand Ventures