Finding Investment

Greville Commins, Entrepreneur-in-Residence SETsquared Bristol

Question

I have a high fashion brand and have been featured in many top UK publications. Many influencers have worn my products but right now my biggest challenge is finding investment. What can I do…I want to scale up but finance is hindering me? – Bristol Brand Owner

Answer

Firstly, you need to look at your investor proposition; It is not the same as your customer proposition. If you are getting good press and influences advocating your brand this is excellent. However, investors want to see the investment proposition. If they invest in you what will be their return, when would that be and how will it happen?

Secondly, you need to find the right investors who invest in your sector. These investors will have the right market knowledge to assess your proposition and have likely already made similar investments.

Thirdly, you need to be investor ready, that is, ready to tell your story in a compelling way, ready for any questions they may ask, and ready to spend the time engaging with the investment process. Most entrepreneurs need to talk to many investors before they get a bite. A good reference point could be talking to other brand owners who have successfully raised money. This could give you much needed pointers.