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11
AI digital marketing startup NexMind raises seed funding from 500 Global


NexMind, an AI-powered multilingual digital marketing platform, announced yesterday that it had secured seed funding from Silicon Valley-based venture capital firm 500 Global. NexMind empowers professionals across industries with advanced SEO tools to create search-optimized content in 17 languages through its proprietary AI framework which eliminate the need for technical SEO expertise from the user. Its customers are from leading global and regional companies across multiple industries, including banking, insurance, electronics, security, IT, telecom and more.

Founded in 2019, NexMind has been self-funded and said it has been operating profitably since 2021. The undisclosed funding amount will be used to expand product offerings and accelerate customer acquisition worldwide.

NexMind simplifies and streamlines how brands create multilingual search-optimized content that ranks on search engines like Google and Bing, as well as eCommerce marketplaces like Amazon, Lazada, and Shopee, allowing brands to boost organic traffic to their website and online stores to reach a global audience.

“Our focus is to help business teams generate more leads, increase brand awareness, and enhance their productivity through advanced yet intuitive AI tools. We are proud to have the support of 500 Global in our mission to be a world-class AI solutions provider,” said Francis Lui, CEO and founder of NexMind.

“There are 5 billion internet users in the world, and 3 billion more are projected to come online by 2040. To reach them you’ll need to speak their languages. We believe NexMind’s multilingual AI solutions will propel the growth of today’s online businesses, accelerate the exchange of goods and services for the next wave of internet users, and have a positive impact on the future of our global economy,” said Khailee Ng, Managing Partner, 500 Global.

Additionally, NexMind also launched Text2Social, a new feature that increases user efficiency by allowing them to generate engaging social media posts across multiple channels with one click. The startup describes this as a significant development that allows users to create social media posts in any of the 17 languages, ensuring their message is localized and relevant to garner higher engagement.

The tool conducts in-depth audience research to identify multiple data points useful for generating effective social media content, enabling marketers to spend less time on data analysis, and more time implementing data-driven decisions that support their marketing and communication goals.

Among the languages supported currently are Bahasa Indonesia, Bahasa Malaysia, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Thai, and Vietnamese.

NexMind was co-founded by Francis, Bernie Law (Chief Product Officer), and Pattrine Hong (Chief Financial Officer). Francis previously founded Nexus Mediaworks International an SEO company and a Google Premier Partner agency. He launched NexMind to build a platform that makes the digital marketing skills he acquired over a decade accessible to everyone - in seconds.

Source: https://www.digitalnewsasia.com/startups/ai-digital-marketing-startup-nexmind-raises-seed-funding-500-global
12
Startup / Bangladesh Startup Investment Report 2023
« Last post by Rasel Bhuyan on September 12, 2023, 11:34:19 AM »








































































































































©Startup Bangladesh
13
How to Raise Angel Investment for Startups in Bangladesh


Angel investors are those who invest seed money into a business to kick start its operation. This investment usually comes in exchange for convertible debt or equity in the ownership of the company. From a startup perspective, angel investments are a great way to secure funds as well as mentorship from the investors working in the relevant industry. Here is how a business can raise angel investment, especially if they are from Bangladesh.

The Angel Investment Landscape of Bangladesh
Bangladesh is still in the early stages of angel investment. There were not many investors a few years back in the startup ecosystem. However, the pace is picking up. Bangladesh Startup Investment Report of 2022 shows that Bangladeshi startups were able to raise $112 million in 2022. A total of 47 startups were able to secure funds, among whom 39 brought unique service propositions. The largest funding was received by ShopUp who were able to raise $65 million from Valar Ventures and Flourish Ventures.

About 8% of the total funding came from local investors. On average, the angel investment size for early-stage startups was around $588K. Bangladesh is in the lower tier when it comes to securing venture funds.

How to Get Angel Investment in Bangladesh
Getting an angel investor to invest is neither straightforward nor easy. A startup will need to put in the work, especially in Bangladesh where the investment ratio is low. There are several key things to consider when it comes to securing angel investment. Here are some of them.

Clear Business Idea and Plan
A startup should have a clear business idea backed up by a strong and detailed plan to secure angel investment. The plan should outline the startup's mission, market opportunity, revenue model, target audience, competition analysis, marketing strategy, and financial projections. A solid business plan is crucial for gaining investor confidence.

Market Validation
Investors look for product or service confidence while investing. As a result, it is important to create a market validation of the startup product or service before making the initial approach for funds.

Market validation can be done by developing a market-viable product. This product or service can be channeled to early adopters and customers. Based on their experience, a positive narrative for the product can be developed. This will play a crucial role in securing early-stage angel investment.

Assess the Pros and Cons of Early-Stage Investment
Many startups make the mistake of raising money just for the sake of it. This is where many startups get embroiled in the process. Before attracting investment in the early stage, assess whether the funds are actually needed or not.

The stakes for early-stage investments are quite high. Investors might demand higher equity or convertible debt just because of the risk involved in investing. Try and understand whether foregoing equity at an early stage aligns with the long-term plan of the startup or not.

Understand the Legal Intricacies
The concept of angel investment is still relatively new in Bangladesh. The nature of the operation of angel investment makes it important for founders to understand the legal bindings of investment contracts.

Angel investment comes in at a very early stage of a startup. Most founders fail to properly grasp the legal bindings or get carried away with the investment itself. The rule is simple in this regard, be intelligent and understand all the legal formalities before entering into a contract no matter how lucrative the investment might be.

Invest Time
Unlike a few years ago,  there are now organizations in Bangladesh that actively help startups to raise investments. There is Bangladesh Angels network specifically for angel investment which connects the angels and founders.

Depending on the process of valuation, securing an investment and closing the deal might take time. The key here is to persevere and invest time and effort into securing the funds.

Research Potential Angel Investors
Identify the angel investors who have previously invested in a similar industry and niche. Attend startup events, join entrepreneurship communities, and leverage the existing network to make connections.

Bangladesh Angels network can be a great starting point as they have a diverse portfolio of investors under a single platform.

Creating and Practicing a Pitch Deck
A pitch deck is essentially like a presentation slide. It should showcase important information like value proposition, market opportunity, competitive advantage, team, financials, and funding requirements. A pitch should be concise and visually appealing. Also, practice the delivery of the pitch deck. The idea here is to convince the investors in a limited time. Being clear and eloquent will help to visualize the value more easily to the potential investors.

Legal and Financial Due Diligence
Before approaching potential investors, it is important to conduct proper financial and legal due diligence. It is like cleaning the home before inviting someone over. The first thing that the investors would look into right before or right after the investment is the startup's legal, financial, and operational aspects.

If these aspects are not sorted properly, it might create a negative impression and the investor might pull out altogether.

Networking and Connection
It is important to utilize the platform created by different investment and venture capital firms in Bangladesh. Attend events, workshops, and networking sessions to establish connections with potential investors.

Even if it is not possible to secure funds in the early stage, building the network and connection would definitely help out in the long run.

Final Words
From the perspective of Bangladesh, raising angel investment is not an easy task, more often than not, there would be failure instead of success. Rather than giving up, it is important to persevere and identify the lacking that might deter a potential investor.

Another pro tip is not to attract too many angel investors. Keeping the number low can help to maintain the control and direction of the startup as well as get valuable industry insights. The angel investment platform in Bangladesh is growing and it will continue to add value to the startup ecosystem.


Source: https://unb.com.bd/category/Business/how-to-raise-angel-investment-for-startups-in-bangladesh/119600
14
Startup / How to raise funds for your startup: A guide
« Last post by Rasel Bhuyan on July 19, 2023, 12:23:13 PM »
How to raise funds for your startup: A guide


Launching a startup is an exhilarating journey, but one of the greatest challenges lies in securing the necessary funding to turn your vision into a reality. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the strategies and steps that aspiring entrepreneurs can undertake to raise funding for their startups. From crafting a compelling business plan to attracting investors, this article serves as your roadmap to financial success.


Crafting a compelling business plan

The first step in raising funds for your startup is to create a compelling business plan that outlines your company's vision, mission, and value proposition. This document acts as a roadmap, helping potential investors understand your business model and growth potential.

Executive summary: Begin with a concise overview that highlights your startup's unique selling points, market analysis, and competitive advantage. Keep it succinct, yet compelling, to grab the attention of investors.

Market analysis: Thoroughly research your target market, identifying its size, growth potential, and key trends. Highlight your understanding of market dynamics and how your startup will address unmet needs or gaps.

Unique value proposition: Clearly articulate the problem your startup solves and the value it brings to customers. Emphasize how your product or service is different from existing offerings and the potential for disruption.

Financial projections: Develop realistic financial projections, including revenue forecasts, expenses, and cash flow analysis. Back your projections with solid research and assumptions, demonstrating your startup's growth potential and profitability.


Seeking funding sources

Now that you have a compelling business plan in hand, it's time to explore different funding sources that can help turn your vision into reality.

Bootstrapping: Many entrepreneurs start by self-funding their startups through personal savings, credit cards, or loans. While bootstrapping may require personal sacrifices, it allows you to maintain control and attract investors with a proof-of-concept.

Friends and family: Approach close contacts who believe in your idea and may be willing to invest in your venture. Clearly outline the risks involved and provide a formal agreement to protect relationships and interests.

Angel investors: Seek out angel investors, high-net-worth individuals or groups who provide early-stage funding in exchange for equity. Tap into angel networks, pitch events, or online platforms to connect with potential investors aligned with your industry.

Venture capital: Venture capital firms specialise in providing funding to high-growth startups. Develop a targeted list of venture capital firms that have a track record in your industry and reach out to them with a well-crafted pitch deck and business plan.

Crowdfunding: Leverage crowdfunding platforms to raise capital from a large pool of individuals who believe in your idea. Create a compelling campaign, highlighting the value proposition and rewards for supporters.

Grants and competitions: Research government grants, non-profit organisations, and startup competitions that offer financial support to innovative ventures. Be prepared to demonstrate the societal impact and scalability of your startup.


Attracting investors

Once you have identified potential funding sources, it's essential to present your startup in a compelling manner that resonates with investors.

Pitch deck: Develop a concise and visually appealing pitch deck that effectively communicates your startup's value proposition, market potential, competitive advantage, and financial projections. Keep it focused, engaging, and tailored to the investor's preferences.

Networking: Build a strong network within your industry by attending conferences, events, and startup communities. Actively seek opportunities to connect with potential investors and industry influencers who can provide guidance and introductions.

Demonstrating traction: Show investors that your startup has achieved significant milestones or customer traction, such as revenue growth, user acquisition, or strategic partnerships. Highlighting proof-of-concept instills confidence in potential investors.

Due diligence: Be prepared for the investor's due diligence process. Anticipate and address questions about your business model, competition, intellectual property, team composition, and legal and financial aspects of your startup.


©https://www.thedailystar.net/
15
With shorter cash runways, here’s how startup founders can get to profitability faster

In today’s competitive startup landscape, founders are facing more challenges than ever. Venture capitalists have become more cautious with their investments, demanding greater returns, and expecting founders to do more with fewer resources.

Many of my startup clients are talking about the challenges of getting funding and exploring alternative ways to succeed with VC funding no longer guaranteed. Most are looking at ways to be self-sustaining earlier, and that means they need clients — fast.

Let’s explore how to narrow in on your perfect customer to ensure the work you do is profitable and on a shorter runway.

Revenue Generating Activity

With VC funding in short supply, it is in your best interest to focus on sales so your organization can be self-sustaining earlier. For many founders, salesmanship wasn’t their primary motivation when starting their business. Their passion lies in their product or service, but the reality is that successful selling is crucial for sustained growth. It requires wearing multiple hats and investing considerable effort into developing a plan. However, there are a few steps that can make the process of finding and warming up prospects more manageable.

Identifying the Ideal Customer

Understanding your target market is paramount. It goes beyond a broad demographic and requires a comprehensive grasp of the specific individuals most likely to buy from you, with minimal barriers to a sale. Creating an ideal buyer persona is essential, encompassing factors such as industry, title, decision-making capacity, company size, and income. Crucially, it’s vital to identify the challenges these ideal customers face and position your product as the solution.

Crafting a Compelling Value Proposition

A clearly articulated value proposition is fundamental to capturing customer attention. You must convey what makes your product or service unique in the market, highlighting key benefits and outcomes while directly addressing the pain points you’ve identified. This ensures that your value proposition resonates with your target audience and compels them to choose your offering over competitors.

Harnessing the Power of Referrals

Networking and leveraging personal connections are excellent starting points for gaining referrals in the marketplace. When it comes to referrals, word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied customers can be incredibly powerful. You can organically amplify your reach through positive testimonials and recommendations. Encouraging satisfied customers to refer your product or service to their peers and networks can significantly expand your customer base. Additionally, implementing referral programs can provide incentives for customers to actively refer to your business.

Prioritizing Sales

It is essential to emphasize the significance of sales as a primary focus. While marketing plays a crucial role in attracting potential customers, it is important to strike a balance and ensure that sales efforts take precedence over elaborate marketing campaigns, particularly in the current landscape. All you really need is an effective website and strategically placed social media; the rest of your efforts should be focused on sales and prospecting.

Embracing a Consultative Approach

Transactional sales may get you short-term gains, but true success lies in building lasting relationships with your customers. This applies to both B2B and B2C models. Customers want to be heard and feel valued. Implementing a consultative approach involves actively engaging with them, seeking their feedback through surveys, and providing regular updates that demonstrate you’ve listened to their needs. Additionally, explore opportunities for upselling and cross-selling to maximize the value you offer.

Investing in Sales Enablement Tools

While it may not be the most exciting prospect, investing in a customer relationship management (CRM) tool can significantly enhance your ability to track customers and sales. This eliminates the need to rely on cumbersome spreadsheets and ensures more efficient operations. The time saved and the improved organization will prove invaluable as your business grows.

Striking the Right Communication Balance with Prospects and Clients

Communicating with your target audience is crucial, but it’s equally important not to inundate them with information. Focus on one monthly communication, such as a newsletter. If you send sales emails in addition to your newsletter, limit them to once a month or, at most, every other week. Ensure that each communication adds value, offering solutions to problems, thought leadership, or inviting recipients to something genuinely interesting and relevant.

A Clear Path to Profitability

By gaining a deep understanding of your target market and aligning your offerings with their needs, you can significantly shorten the timeline to profitability. Investors, including VCs, are particularly attracted to companies that demonstrate a clear and concise path to profitability. Adopting these strategies allows you to position your startup for success, regardless of the prevailing funding climate.

Startups must be nimble in every aspect of their business, especially regarding the funding landscape. Prioritizing sales, understanding the target market, and nurturing customer relationships are vital steps toward achieving profitability. By doing so, startups not only enhance their chances of attracting investors but also pave the way for long-term success in the market.


©https://www.geekwire.com/
16
Startup / From Idea to Successful Exit
« Last post by Rasel Bhuyan on July 04, 2023, 10:15:20 AM »
From Idea to Successful Exit — 8 Lessons Learned From Building and Selling a Startup

In entrepreneurship, success often lies in challenging the status quo and embracing risks that others shy away from. It begins with a spark — a bold idea that sets the foundation for a groundbreaking startup. Think about Steve Jobs and his audacious vision of bringing a computer to every individual's home or Elon Musk's relentless pursuit of revolutionizing space travel. These pioneers disrupted industries and left an indelible mark on the world.

As an entrepreneur, your journey from idea to successful exit will require audacity, resilience and an unwavering commitment to your vision.


1. The crucial role of market research: Don't shoot in the dark

Before diving headfirst into execution, an astute entrepreneur knows the importance of thorough market research. To navigate the competitive landscape successfully, you must identify your target audience, their pain points and existing solutions. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself, and gain direct knowledge by actively engaging in surveys, interviews or focus groups.

Keep in mind that unraveling your customers' needs and aspirations holds the key to creating a product or service that profoundly connects with them. Don't shy away from diving in and seeking firsthand insights — it's the secret ingredient for success.


2. Assembling a stellar team: Birds of a feather fly together

Your startup's journey is not a solo expedition; it's a team sport. Put yourself in the company of talented people who share your passion, complement your strengths and challenge your thinking. Look beyond their qualifications; focus on their cultural fit and shared values. As stated by Sir Richard Branson, "Provide people with sufficient training to enable them to leave, but treat them so well that they have no desire to."

Foster a nurturing and cooperative work atmosphere that cultivates creativity, and you will experience the enchantment of a cohesive team propelling your startup to unprecedented achievements.


3. Embrace failure: A launchpad for growth

Failure is not a setback; it's an opportunity for growth. Every successful entrepreneur has experienced setbacks and failures along their journey. Take the story of James Dyson, the inventor of the bagless vacuum cleaner. He endured 5,126 failed prototypes before achieving success. Embrace failure as a stepping stone towards success, learn from it, adapt, and pivot when necessary. Remember, resilience is a trait that separates the ordinary from the extraordinary.


4. Scaling smartly: Don't outgrow your britches

As your startup gains traction, scaling becomes the next critical phase. However, beware of scaling too quickly without a solid foundation. The temptation of rapid growth can be overpowering, yet finding a delicate equilibrium is crucial. Let us reflect upon the cautionary story of Webvan. This swiftly expanding grocery delivery startup ultimately crumbled under unsustainable scaling. Prioritize scalability by investing in infrastructure, streamlining processes and building a strong organizational culture that can withstand growth.


5. The art of the pivot: Adapting to the winds of change

Adaptability reigns supreme in the dynamic realm of startups. Embrace feedback wholeheartedly, heed your customers' voices attentively, and remain acutely aware of prevailing market trends. A successful entrepreneur understands the value of agility and is not afraid to pivot when necessary. Slack, originally a gaming company, underwent a complete transformation into the widely used workplace communication platform we know today. Stay nimble, and be willing to embrace change — it might just be the secret ingredient that propels your startup to unforeseen heights.


6. The power of networking: Opening doors and seizing opportunities

Throughout your entrepreneurial journey, the power of networking cannot be underestimated. Building meaningful connections with industry experts, mentors and potential investors can open doors to invaluable opportunities. Attend conferences, join entrepreneurial communities, and leverage social media platforms to establish your brand. Cultivate relationships that go beyond mere transactions, as these connections can become your biggest advocates and sources of support.


7. The exit strategy: Knowing when to fold 'em

Finally, the pinnacle of an entrepreneur's journey — the exit. While the dream is to build a successful and sustainable business over the long term, there may come a point where an exit becomes the most strategic move. Knowing when to fold 'em requires astute judgment and a clear understanding of your business's potential, whether through an acquisition, merger or going public.

Deciding to sell a startup should not be taken lightly. It requires meticulous thought regarding numerous aspects, such as market conditions, growth opportunities and personal objectives. Evaluating potential buyers or partners and their compatibility with your vision and the value they can contribute is crucial. Refuse to accept anything less than the deserving outcome for all the effort you have invested.


8. The art of negotiation: Securing a deal that reflects your worth

When selling your startup, mastering the art of negotiation becomes paramount. Your dedication and hard work in building your business deserve a deal that accurately represents its true value. Equip yourself with a comprehensive grasp of your business's financials, projections and distinctive selling propositions for intensive negotiations. Enlist the support of seasoned legal and financial advisors who can navigate the complex journey, ensuring you secure a deal that optimizes your return on investment.


Post-exit reflection: Learning from success and failure alike

Once the chaos settles and the contract is finalized for the acquisition, pause to contemplate your entrepreneurial voyage. Commemorate your triumphs, recognize your setbacks, and extract valuable lessons from them. Chronicle your experiences, encompassing both favorable and unfavorable ones, and impart them to aspiring entrepreneurs who can gain from your wisdom. Remember that your departure marks not the conclusion but the commencement of a fresh chapter.

Employ your newfound resources, connections and knowledge to embark on new entrepreneurial ventures, guide the upcoming innovators, or invest in promising startups. Pay it forward, and contribute to the entrepreneurial ecosystem that has nurtured your growth.

The path of an entrepreneur is extraordinary, requiring tenacity, resilience and a strong belief in one's vision. Embrace risks, learn from failures, and pivot when needed. Build an exceptional team, and cultivate relationships that propel you forward. Seize exit opportunities on your terms. These insights offer guidance in the tumultuous world of entrepreneurship. Embrace your unique spirit, dare to dream, disrupt, and leave a mark. Fearlessly chase your dreams, and build a startup that defies expectations. The future belongs to those who turn ideas into reality and walk the path less traveled.


©https://www.entrepreneur.com/
17
Newspaper / Bangladesh moves four notches up, ranks 89th
« Last post by Maliha Islam on June 03, 2023, 05:20:41 PM »
Bangladesh moves four notches up, ranks 89th

Bangladesh has moved four notches up to 89th position in the latest edition of an index that analyses the global startup ecosystem.

In the category of the city, the country's capital Dhaka also improved its position by 115 notches to secure 211st position, said the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2023 report.

Israel-based international research organization Startup Blink launched the report on Tuesday.

According to it, Bangladesh ranked 93rd consecutively in the last two years while the rank was 98 in the 2020 edition of the report.

Regarding Bangladesh's improvement in the ranking, the report said: "Our country rankings are discounted based on population; with the large population of Bangladesh, a 4-spot increase is significant."

The severe public transport problem in Dhaka city has been a goldmine for the startups as the city has been ranked among the top 100 cities globally for the transportation industry.

"Dhaka's climb up the Index can be attributed to the impact that its startups achieved (quality score)," the report said. Among the South Asian nations, India ranked 21, Pakistan 76, Sri Lanka 83 in the index.

The report said Bangladesh has strong economic potential, which will require active support from the government to materialize.

"Top priorities should be improving infrastructure, including internet stability," said the report, adding: "The government should also work on policy support, arrangement of corporate venture capital, and improving industry-academia collaboration to support the growth of startups."

The report mentioned that the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority has built four Hi-Tech parks like Bangabandhu Hi-Tech City to elevate the growth of the local tech industry.

The index ranked the United States (US) as the best startup ecosystem, while all the top five countries maintained their position from last year.

The US is followed by the United Kingdom, Israel, Canada, and Sweden in the ranking.

Singapore, Germany, France, Australia, and the Netherlands were placed at sixth to tenth positions respectively. San Francisco, New York, London, Los Angeles, Boston, Beijing, Shanghai, Bangalore, Paris, and Tel Aviv were the top 10 cities on the list.

Source: https://today.thefinancialexpress.com.bd/trade-market/bangladesh-moves-four-notches-up-ranks-89th-1685721076
18
How To Raise Money / How to avoid common fundraising mistakes
« Last post by Rasel Bhuyan on May 22, 2023, 09:24:20 AM »

Money is what ultimately runs businesses. Every organization relies on money to run its operation, finance growth, and acquire additional resources. There are many ways of building startups, one such way is raising external capital from FnF, angels, VCs, and other investors. Venture-backed has become one of the mainstream ways of building companies of late. More so because of the extraordinary amount of attention venture-backed companies and their fundraising news receive. However, it is not the only way to build companies. There are at least equally excellent companies that are built through bootstrapping. If you want to build a venture-backed company, fundraising is an important skill. Your ability to successfully raise money can define the success and failure of your company.

Fundraising is a complex process that requires both creativity and technical knowledge. It involves a delicate balance between these two skill sets, which can only be achieved with a considerable investment of time, effort, and patience.

Alejandro Cremades writes in his book, The Art of Startup Fundraising, “The best entrepreneurs are not the best visionaries. The greatest entrepreneurs are incredible salespeople. They know how to tell an amazing story that will convince talent and investors to join in on the journey.”

To that end, fundraising is partly a skill that we all should learn and can benefit from.

Purpose of fundraising

Fundraising for a startup is to acquire the necessary capital to launch and grow the business. This capital can be used to fund product development, marketing, hiring new people, and other key business activities. The ultimate goal of fundraising is to create a sustainable and profitable business that can continue to grow and succeed in the long term.

In addition to providing essential fuel for growth, fundraising can also help startups to gain valuable exposure and build relationships with potential investors, industry experts, and strategic partners. This can lead to future opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and business development.

Fundraising can also work as a validation for a startup's business model and vision. By attracting investment from experienced investors, startups can demonstrate that their business idea has real potential and that there is a market for their product or service.

Fundraising plays a crucial role in the success of startups, providing them with the capital and resources they need to launch, grow, and thrive in the highly competitive business world.

Earlier we discussed how to prepare a convincing pitch deck, in today’s article, however, we look into some of the common mistakes people make when it comes to raising investment. However, it is important to note that there are no strict rules that you have to follow a certain approach to raising money. Raising money is more an art than science. You can follow any strategy that works for you. However, keeping this set of mistakes in mind is likely to help you more in your fundraising drive than otherwise.

Common fundraising mistakes to avoid

Running a fundraising program is a challenging task that demands dedication, resources, and a significant amount of hard work. Despite efforts to run and manage such events, errors are inevitable. While some mistakes are minor, others can significantly impact the organization and its activities. However, it's possible to prevent costly mistakes with the appropriate mindset and strategy.

On the other hand, preventing costly mistakes can safeguard not only fundraising events but the entire program. There are common mistakes that fundraisers and organizations make, which everybody can and should avoid to ensure success.

Thus, the following mistakes founders should avoid while raising funds-

01. You need a deck, so make one

A deck is a document that contains essential details about your startup that you share with potential investors. It typically includes information about the problem your startup is addressing, how you plan to solve it, details about your team, the market size, your strategy for entering the market, the timeline for achieving your goals, and whether technology plays a role in your solution.

Some startups may believe that their product is so impressive that investors won't require a deck, while others may believe that investors should rely on their word and hence do not need to provide a deck. Alternatively, some may feel uneasy about sharing a deck before the meeting and plan to send it later. However, this approach is not advisable.

As Alejandro Cremades says, “Business success requires business preparation. You don't have to be a master tactician, but you do need to have a plan in place. This plan will act as a foundation for everything you want to achieve.”

When you are considering raising investment, it is wise to start with the assumption that you are in more desperate need of investors than they are of you. To that end, it is better for you to follow things that would make it easier for you to meet and convince them to put money in your company. Therefore, the first rule usually is to send a deck that clearly answers the question, "What makes it worth my time to meet with you?"

You don’t need to prepare a perfect pitch deck. Start with a minimum viable pitch deck. Share it with people. Improve as you get feedback and go along.

02. Lacking what and why

Many founders tend to go into abstraction when it comes to explaining their ideas. This makes it challenging for investors to understand a startup's purpose and value proposition after hearing a pitch. To help them visualize how your business operates and how users engage with your solution, provide specific instances of the problem you're addressing rather than stating it in vague terms. Simply saying that your product improves process efficiencies doesn't offer a clear image. Instead, explain what users had to do before and how their experience has improved with your solution.

To help investors understand your business, it could be useful to approach it visually. Like a cinematographer who starts with a wide shot to establish the setting and provide an overview, then moves to tighter shots for details. Similarly, you need to give investors the necessary context before diving into specific details about your business.

03. Overvaluing the company

Overvaluing a company is a common fundraising mistake that can ultimately harm the startup's chances of success. It's natural for founders to have high hopes for their company, but setting unrealistic valuations can turn off potential investors and make it harder to secure funding.

One reason why overvaluing a company is problematic is that it can lead to dilution of ownership. If a startup is valued too high, investors will want a larger percentage of ownership for their investment, which means founders will have to give up more equity. This can limit their ability to attract future investors and ultimately hurt the company's growth prospects.

Another reason why overvaluing a company can be detrimental is that it can make it difficult to achieve the valuation in the next round of funding. If a company is overvalued in the early stages, it may be hard to show the necessary growth and progress to justify a higher valuation in subsequent rounds. This can lead to a down round, which can be a major red flag to future investors.

To avoid overvaluing a company, founders should research the market and the competition thoroughly to determine a realistic valuation. They should also consider seeking the advice of experienced advisors and investors to help them set the right valuation. By avoiding this common fundraising mistake, startups can improve their chances of securing funding.

04. Failing to understand your audience

You know your business far too well. You no longer remember what was obvious about your market space and what you learned while working on your business. This leads founders to assume that their audience of investors understands these things too. But actually, they do not.

Moreover, it's important to note that investors have different priorities compared to both you and your customers. While you focus on running your company and customers are interested in solving their problems, investors are primarily concerned with ensuring that their investment succeeds and makes then excellent returns.  So, you should understand your audience and communicate accordingly. Here are a few helpful tips to effectively communicate with investors:

Use simple, everyday language and avoid technical terms, jargon, or acronyms. Investors should be able to understand your pitch easily, otherwise, they may lose interest and move on to the next company.
When presenting your business, focus on the overall concept and not just the technology. Explain how your company will acquire customers and highlight the essential metrics.
Instead of detailing features, emphasize the benefits that your product or service provides compared to other available options in the market. Don’t tell show them examples of how your product is superior to the competition.
Remember, this is a pitch, and you have limited time. Stick to the most crucial points rather than dwelling on minor details. If your pitch is engaging, investors will want to learn more and continue the conversation in subsequent meetings.

05. Weak communications

In a perfect world, investors would assess your company based on the merit of your idea, plan, and execution. Unfortunately, we live in an imperfect world where people often judge a book by its cover. Often, investors are unable to recognize the true potential of a business beyond its initial appearance. They may overlook the valuable qualities and assets that lie beneath the surface if they are not presented effectively.

Communicate clearly and effectively. With so many startups vying for limited funding, it's essential to convey enthusiasm and energy in every interaction, including in written communication. Your excitement about your business should be evident, as it is contagious and helps investors get excited too. Even if you're naturally introverted, you may need to push yourself to be more energetic and expressive than usual to demonstrate your passion for the opportunity.

When presenting information, try to incorporate stories and narratives whenever possible. Stories can be more impactful than just presenting facts or data. Human beings are wired to understand and remember stories much more effectively than dry information. An excellent example of this is Steve Jobs, who was a master at using stories in his presentations. Instead of merely stating the dimensions of the MacBook Air, he used the story of how it could fit inside an envelope.  Every article on the event wrote about that example. The impact was so significant that even after many years, people are still discussing it.

Aesthetics matter. Because appearance is the most important aspect of making a good impression. It's not just about your business plan and ideas, but also about how you present them. Everything from your personal appearance to your presentation materials and website should look good. If your pitch deck or personal grooming is messy, it can leave a negative impression on investors and make them doubt your ability to manage a startup. On the other hand, paying attention to these details and showing mastery over the little things can subconsciously enhance investors' perception of your company.

Finally, it is essential to become proficient in your presentations. Rehearse your pitch numerous times, alone and with a discerning audience. If possible, record a video of your presentations to analyze your mistakes. Without putting in the effort, it is difficult to appear at ease. Furthermore, it is challenging to adjust to your audience's responses, questions, and interruptions unless you know the presentation thoroughly enough to deliver while concentrating on other aspects.

06. Overpromising and under-delivering

Avoid making grand promises that you cannot fulfill, as this will harm your credibility in the long run. It's important to be truthful, transparent, and realistic about your company's achievements and goals. When discussing the services, market reach, and impact, try to be as consistent as possible. Strive to meet stakeholders' expectations and then go above and beyond to provide exceptional service that exceeds their expectations.

One of the main reasons startups overpromise is the belief that it will help them secure investment. However, this approach can backfire if the company fails to meet the expectations set during the pitch. Investors expect startups to have a solid understanding of their market, customers, and competition, and to make realistic projections based on their current situation and growth potential. Overpromising can create unrealistic expectations and make investors question the startup's credibility and integrity.

07. Failing to make commitments

Founders sometimes lack clarity when it comes to timelines and milestones. Their presentation may mention how they will use the funds but fail to indicate what exactly will be achieved. Investors are interested in knowing what specific improvements will be made to the product, how many new customers will be gained, and how much revenue will be generated after the investment. These achievements should be linked to the milestones that must be reached prior to the next round of financing. Demonstrating that you can secure the next round of financing at a high valuation requires proving that the funding you are getting now will lead to significant accomplishments.

Demonstrating a track record of fulfilling commitments is even more impressive. Investors recognize that the startup industry is unpredictable and that your projections may be little more than guesses. However, investors want to be aware of your objectives and expectations. Clearly outlining commitments and milestones indicates that you have carefully planned your strategy and have a clear understanding of how to progress toward your long-term goals. This creates a sense of confidence.

08. Hiding facts

Startups may encounter certain issues that are not immediately visible, such as co-founder issues in the past, down rounds, or pivots. It's possible that the startup does not have robust intellectual property protections or has developed its solution using third-party components. While you don't need to disclose all of these limitations upfront, you shouldn't conceal them from investors during the due diligence process either. If investors find out that you've been hiding these problems, they may doubt your integrity. Trust is an essential component of early-stage investing.

Once investors invest their money, they usually have little control over the startup. Therefore, it is crucial for them to trust that the founders will continue to act with honesty and consider the investors' interests. Anything that shakes this trust can endanger the deal.

09. Failing to follow up

Failing to follow up with investors after a pitch or meeting can be a critical fundraising mistake for startups. Many founders make the mistake of assuming that the ball is in the investor's court and that they will reach out if they are interested. However, in reality, investors often meet with several startups a day and may forget about your startup if you do not follow up with them.

Following up with investors shows that you are proactive, committed, and interested in their investment. It also gives you an opportunity to address any questions or concerns they may have after the initial meeting. A prompt and professional follow-up can increase your chances of securing funding and building a positive relationship with investors.

To avoid this mistake, it is essential to have a clear follow-up plan in place after your pitch or meeting. This plan should include sending a thank-you note or email after the meeting, reiterating the key points of your pitch, and highlighting any next steps or action items. You should also schedule a follow-up meeting or call to discuss progress and address any new questions or concerns.

Endnote

Fundraising is critical for most companies. Therefore, it's crucial to determine what strategies are effective with investors and prepare accordingly. This will help save valuable time and money, both of which are limited resources that founders require more of.

Fundraising is a critical aspect of building a successful startup, but it can also be a minefield of mistakes that can derail a company's growth and development. By being transparent, realistic, and open to feedback, startups can navigate the fundraising process successfully, build trust with investors, and secure the funding they need to achieve growth and build a lasting company.
19
Venture Capital / How to Build a Successful Company?
« Last post by Maliha Islam on May 09, 2023, 04:39:23 PM »
How to Build a Successful Company?



In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business world, the term “successful company” is often used to describe organizations that have managed to achieve exceptional growth, profitability, and market dominance. However, building a successful company is not just about generating high revenues or achieving a large market share. Rather, it is about creating a sustainable business model that delivers real value to customers while ensuring long-term profitability and growth.

Building a successful company is not easy, but it is possible with the right mindset, strategies, and execution. A successful company requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and persistence to overcome obstacles and achieve goals. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to help you build a successful company from scratch.

12 Ways to Build a Successful Company
Building a successful company involves several essential steps. Let’s go over the essential steps you need to build a successful company.

Analyze the Market and Competition
Analyzing the market allows entrepreneurs to identify potential opportunities and gaps in the market that their business can fill. By understanding customer needs, preferences, and trends, businesses can develop products or services that better meet these demands, providing a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Develop a Business Plan
Develop a comprehensive business plan to outline your company's goals, strategies, and financial projections. This plan serves as a roadmap for your business and should include your company's vision, mission, and values. In addition to that, identify your target market, analyze the competition, and define your unique selling proposition. Determine the resources and funding required to start and operate your business.

To monitor your expenses and revenue and ensure adequate cash flow for your business in the long term, include financial projections and budgets in your business plan. Building a successful business requires a solid business plan.

This plan will act as a blueprint for your company -- helping you make informed decisions and stay focused on your goals as you face the challenges of entrepreneurship. Developing a well-researched and structured business plan is crucial to transforming your business idea into a thriving company.



Build a Strong Team
Any business needs a strong team to achieve success. Hire talented and passionate individuals who share your company’s values and vision. Build a diverse team that brings a variety of skills and perspectives to the table. Adopt a positive and collaborative work culture that promotes creativity and innovation.

Get Organized and Keep Records
Being organized is crucial for achieving business success. Creating a to-do list every day is a helpful way to stay on top of tasks and ensure that nothing is forgotten. Check off each item as it’s completed to ensure that all essential tasks for your business’s survival are completed.

Keeping records will help you know your business’s standing and potential challenges. It will eventually allow you to create strategies to overcome them. This proactive approach enables you to tackle issues before they become critical, ensuring the long-term success of your business.

Secure Funding

Starting and operating a business requires capital. Identify funding sources that align with your business goals and needs. Explore options such as loans, grants, crowdfunding, or venture capital. Develop a financial plan that outlines your projected income, expenses, and cash flow.

Understand the Risks and Rewards
By understanding the potential risks and rewards associated with different courses of action, entrepreneurs can make more effective decisions that maximize the benefits while minimizing potential drawbacks. By having a clear understanding of the potential risks and rewards, business owners can develop achievable goals that align with their risk tolerance and long-term vision for their company.

Establish a Strong Brand
A strong brand sets your company apart from the competition and establishes a connection with your target audience. Create a brand identity that mirrors your company's values and personality. Create a compelling brand message that resonates with your target market. Create a consistent visual identity for all marketing channels.

Focus on Marketing and Sales
Any business depends on marketing and sales for success. Develop a marketing plan that aligns with your business goals and target market. Find out the most effective marketing channels to reach your target audience. Establish a sales strategy that emphasizes customer education and relationship-building.



Prioritize Customer Satisfaction
Customer satisfaction is key to building a successful company. Concentrate on delivering high-quality products or services that meet or surpass customer expectations. Listen to customer feedback and use it to improve your products, services, and customer experience. Establish a customer service process that is responsive, helpful, and efficient.

Embrace Innovation and Adaptability
Innovation and adaptability are essential for staying competitive and relevant in the market. Embrace new technologies, trends, and best practices that can help you improve your products, services, and operations.

Be open to feedback and willing to pivot your strategies as needed. Additionally, businesses can improve existing processes, find ways to reduce costs or create a more positive work culture to enhance employee engagement.

Don’t Forget the Financial Management
To run a successful business, effective financial management is essential. This involves managing financial resources to achieve business goals and objectives. To focus on financial management, businesses need to keep track of income, expenses, and cash flow by creating a budget, monitoring expenses, and ensuring sufficient cash reserves to meet financial obligations.

Monitor and Measure Progress
Monitoring and measuring progress is essential for tracking your company’s success and making data-driven decisions. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with your business goals and regularly track and analyze them. Use this data to identify areas for improvement and make adjustments to your strategies as needed.

Final Words

Building a successful company requires a combination of hard work, dedication, and strategic planning. From identifying a need in the market to prioritizing customer satisfaction, there are several essential steps to building a successful company. By following these steps and staying focused on your goals, you can increase your chances of building a successful and thriving company.

Link: https://unb.com.bd/category/Business/how-to-build-a-successful-company/114917
20
Startup / Measuring Success: The Essential KPIs for Startup Growth
« Last post by Rasel Bhuyan on March 12, 2023, 09:48:02 AM »
Measuring Success: The Essential KPIs for Startup Growth




Startups need to focus on key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success and identify areas for improvement. By tracking these metrics, startups can make data-driven decisions that can help them optimize their operations, increase revenue, and achieve growth.

One of the most important KPIs for startups is customer acquisition cost (CAC). This metric measures the cost of acquiring a new customer and can help startups determine the efficiency of their sales and marketing strategies. Startups should also focus on monthly recurring revenue (MRR), which measures the monthly revenue that a startup can expect to receive from its customers.

Churn rate is another critical KPI for startups, as it measures the percentage of customers who stop using a startup's product or service over a given period of time. High churn rates can indicate issues with customer satisfaction, product quality, or product/market fit. Startups should monitor their churn rates and take steps to address issues that might cause customers to leave.

Conversion rate is also an essential KPI for startups, as it measures the percentage of website visitors who take a specific action, such as making a purchase or subscribing to a newsletter. Improving conversion rates can lead to increased revenue and customer acquisition, making this an important metric for startups that rely on their websites for customer acquisition.

Burn rate is the rate at which a startup is spending its cash reserves. This KPI is critical for startups, as it helps them understand how much runway they have before they need to secure additional funding. Monitoring burn rate can help startups make informed decisions about their expenses, prioritize investments, and avoid running out of cash.

Finally, net promoter score (NPS) is a measure of customer satisfaction and loyalty. A high NPS score indicates that customers are satisfied with the product or service, which can lead to increased customer acquisition and revenue growth.

In conclusion, startups should focus on the KPIs that matter most for their business model and industry. By tracking these metrics, startups can gain valuable insights into their operations and identify areas for improvement. It's important for startups to regularly review KPIs and adjust strategies accordingly to ensure long-term success.
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