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Reviewing Your Business Plan
Too few business owners find time to sit back and simply think. Make some time now and assess what changes you would like to make over the next twelve months.
How do Investors assess an investment opportunity?
This depends on the type of investors. Ask a VC and they will say ‘management team, management team, management team!’ A Business Angel may take more interest in the type of business, as they may have experience and contacts that could strengthen the management team. Nevertheless, there are certain key components that all investors will want to see…
Who are Business Angels?
Business Angels are, by definition, individuals and it is unwise to try to categorise them. But in a sweeping generalisation, they could be described as falling into two camps…
Is selling shares in my company instead of taking out a loan the best thing to do?
If you really want what we term – “sunk” – long term capital in your business that you don’t have to worry about paying back in the same way you would a loan, then selling shares in return for funding may be right for you but that is too simple an answer when there is alot more involved in that simple transaction.
Is equity finance just for start-ups?
No, it can be appropriate for start-ups and established businesses alike.
Must I give away a slice of my business?
You don’t give anything away. An incoming investor would buy shares in your company at a price that you both agree. If you don’t agree on price, you don’t proceed.
Do Minerva’s business angels only invest locally ?
No – but it’s true to say that most business angels like to think the company they invest into is near enough to visit although in truth they rarely ever do that. Most of our Angels are based in and around the Midlands but at least 25% are dotted around the UK.
How long does it take to get an investment agreed?
For the business seeking funds …the usual advice is to start looking for your investors well before you need the money ..6-12 months is not out of line with the time it takes to actually complete an equity deal. It can of course be a lot quicker but that will depend on the information available, evidence, clarity and validation of the key facts. Being well prepared beforehand so there are no surprises and you know what you are likely to be asked will always speed the process.
Is investment with Minerva very high risk?
Investing in unquoted companies is inherently more risky than investing in shares traded on public markets, and advice should always be taken from a suitably qualified independent adviser before making any commitment.
Do Minerva angels only see high tech & pre-revenue companies?
No – although we are part of the University of Warwick Science Park we receive enquiries from companies around the UK and sometimes beyond. We have no specific sectors nor stages of maturity that we concentrate on. See the range of companies we have already invested into …