Address Major Risks Before Fundraising and Learn to Read Investor Momentum

Are you ready to raise money? What advantages do you bring to meetings with investors? For an entrepreneur, the most important fundraising resource is usually enough cash runway: you do not yet need to raise, but the timing feels right. Does your ask make sense? Have you raised an appropriate amount for the company's stage? Do you have a strong team and an effective way to win the market? Investors will relentlessly pursue what they see as “major investment risks.” Those risks or weaknesses can overshadow the company's strengths, so resolving potential major issues before meeting can make a substantial difference. (Do you have a fully articulated winning strategy with sufficient evidence to support it?) After meeting investors, will you seriously consider their feedback and act on it? If you notice how they respond—for example, saying the idea is too early or asking many questions about the market and competitors—the priority is to address those issues and remember the feedback. Founders easily dismiss it: “The investor spent only 30 minutes with me; how could they fully understand what I am building?” But investors have seen many companies, understand markets, and know when a company is “investable.” If you have sufficient cash, sometimes pausing fundraising for a month or two to focus on the business and external communications can pay off considerably. Are you judging fundraising momentum accurately? Momentum is visible, and you should recognize when it is strong. Follow-up meetings do not necessarily mean momentum. Do investors show an inclination to invest? Do they proactively contact you about next steps? Are you always chasing them? Investing resembles dating: when an investor is very interested, they will overcome obstacles to invest, and progress will feel very fast. Start considering backup plans. Can you make tangible progress with the limited money on hand? Are there other potential investors, such as corporate VC groups or companies in your industry? They can bring substantial value and greater fundraising flexibility. Identify companies that might acquire yours and begin building contacts, even if that only helps create momentum while you engage investors. #經營最重要的事 (Jingying Zui Zhongyao de Shi) ---- Robin: “Consider asking an investor with extensive investment experience to advise and consult for you.”