The lowdown: Preparing for investment

There are a number of steps SMEs and start-ups must take before they approach either a venture capital firm or angel investor. They need to focus on five key areas if they are to be successful in receiving investment. These include:

■ developing a business plan,

■ qualifying the investor,

■ understanding investors’ expectations of returns,

■ understanding term sheet expectations, and

■ reaching investor readiness levels.

Your business plan is your opportunity ...