How can you build a network that attracts investors?

As an entrepreneur you should have your personal "CRM". A data base of your network and connections that you have interacted with over the years. Your network is your biggest asset and your quickest path to investment (assuming you have made a positive impression). You should keep your network up to date, find ways to reconnect with them, and share with them your activities. Appear in your network's feed and make them see what you are up to and most of the time where synergies are obvious they will reach out to you instead of you putting out there an ask.

Network is net-worth but its only true when you build the relevant network. In order to build the relevant network, you must identify 1. Who are the potential investors for you. It’s not always mandatory to find VC or angel investors, you may find some existing businesses who may be willing to invest in your company for the strategic reasons. 2. Identify such people from your contacts. The contacts can be offline or online contacts. 3. Identify your contacts who can connect to the target investors. Ask them to help. Some people may offer friendly help while others may need reasons to help. Try to return favours like sharing appreciation, posting recommendations on linkedin etc

A network that listens and takes u seriously needs careful nurturing and takes time to build. Start with alumni base and bosses. Then of course industry meets. Then when u are a couple deals old ; your reputation and how u treat people will automatically build your network. Many of my close friends are so because they reached out to me to understand how I worked on few of my cross border deals and we kept in touch. Many of my close associates are from my industry (M&A) and we are careful not to reach each other’s clientele. We discuss deals in details and help each other. You see a network that helps takes time to build : and careful nurturing. But it’s worth it.

The best advice I can give anyone is to attend business & CFA conferences as there are investors in attendance who can actually be interested in your venture

Your current network is a springboard for growth. Use platforms like LinkedIn to share engaging, quirky content related to your expertise. Every founder can and should be a thought leader in their own area of expertise. This approach not only showcases your knowledge but also makes you relatable and approachable, opening doors to potential investor connections. Remember, every post or interaction is a chance to demonstrate your unique perspective and value.

As I have already mentioned above, networking is the key to success in business world & to be a great networker, you need to step out of your home!

The events and conferences can be invaluable treasures for relevant professional connections. However just connecting is not sufficient. You need to Follow RICH R = Reach I= Impress C= Connect H= Harvest Relationships

My personal manual to get most of the industry events: 1. Research: Identify potential investors and mentors, and plan how to connect with them. 2. Polish Your Pitch: Learn from successful decks, prep, and rehearse your pitch in advance. 3. Choose Wisely: Attend sessions aligned with your business and funding goals. 4. Connect Personally: Approach investors with a friendly demeanor, fostering valuable connections. 5. Follow Up: After the event, reinforce connections with personalized emails or LinkedIn messages.

Combine in-person networking with your online persona. Share your experiences and insights from events on platforms like LinkedIn, creating a continuous narrative of your journey. This not only enhances your visibility but also positions you as an active participant in the industry, attracting attention from investors who value engagement and thought leadership.

Build the version of your brand which is aligned to the targeted investors, and express your interest in the specific investment schemes . Tailored events and programs would be a good fit for showcasing your product.

Understanding is the alignment of thought processes. Share contents that resonate with your target investors or demonstrate out of box thought processes which ties your name with thought leaders and hence people remember you.

In the world of attracting investors, creating and sharing valuable content is your secret weapon. It showcases your expertise, insights, and vision, drawing potential investors closer to your network. Embrace diverse formats like blogs, podcasts, videos, newsletters, or social media posts. Ensure your chosen topics and channels resonate with your target audience and align seamlessly with your brand.

Understanding is the alignment of thought processes. Share contents that resonate with your target investors or demonstrate out of box thought processes which ties your name with thought leaders and hence people remember you.

Embrace the role of an online thought leader by sharing content that resonates with your audience. Mix short, infotainment-style posts with deeper educational content, opinion pieces, podcasts and industry news. This variety not only showcases your expertise but also keeps your content fresh and engaging, drawing in potential investors who are looking for knowledgeable and well-rounded entrepreneurs.

Use online platforms to amplify your voice and reach a wider audience. Share your insights, engage in discussions, and contribute to the broader conversation in your industry. This approach, helps in establishing your credibility and expanding your network, making you more attractive to potential investors.

Warm intros contribute to 60% of VC deals, making them a crucial fundraising tool. I recommend to focus on 3 Referral Sources: 1. Investor-to-Investor Referrals: VC and angel investors often seek opportunities to co-invest. 2. Trusted Service Providers Referrals: Explore intros from VC partners, such as banks, consultants, accountants, or lawyers. 3. Founder-to-Founder Referrals: Tap into existing portfolio companies for referrals. To get founder's referral you need: - Identify VC Partners and Gather CEO Contacts from the portfolio companies of targeted VC partners. - Seek referrals through your network or proceed to direct outreach. - Contact with CEOs, inquire about their VC partner, and seek intro. - Reach out to your target VC

Consistently engage with your network online. Share updates, celebrate milestones, and continue to provide valuable insights. As you nurture these relationships, your network becomes a robust ecosystem of supporters, advisors, and potential investors, all connected through your shared online journey.

Finding investors is an art. Stop using the usual ways of networking and be the only one of your kind in a sea of others like you. Utilize the people you already know in your network like a master planner, not just as a formality. Event-goers will remember you as the purple cow. Be bold and original when you write content, and make your trip into a story that goes viral. Engage in creative activities on online sites, not just to connect with others. Never forget that feedback is a treasure map to your investing aim. You should offer possibilities instead of always begging for favors. Relationships are like throwing a party, not gardening. Investor-friendly businessman. Be unique and trustworthy.