How to get “Investor Ready”

Getting Investor Ready means preparing your startup or business in a way that gives investors confidence in your vision, your team, and the opportunity. It's more than just having a pitch deck—it's about being operationally, financially, and strategically prepared to accept outside capital and put it to work effectively. This is sometimes easier said than done!

Here are some pointers:

• Know the problem you're solving and how you do it

• What is the size of the market you’re addressing

• Prepare a short pre-NDA pitch deck. This is often your first (and last) chance to get your foot in the door so ensure it grabs attention.

• Ensure your financials are up to scratch and that you can answer any questions that come your way.

• Ensure your IP is secured, either by trade secret or Patent.

• Show clear path to revenue (or growth if you’re post revenue)

• Secure and incentivise your key team members, through an ESOP or other tax efficient methods

• Why and how much are you raising, at what valuation and on what terms are you proposing.

• Get an online secure data room ready, with key financial and other documentation in an easy to find format.

Ensuring you follow the steps above means you’ve given yourself the best chance of success by getting “Investor Ready”. You have to be willing and prepared to accept external investment with all the changes that will undoubtedly result.