Start Up Saga and Tales from the Crypt

Hi All at the WSO Forum,

I recently discovered this forum and had been reading through some very interesting topics.

After leaving my last job, I took the opportunity to launch my company in an industry I know inside-out. It’s been a great learning curve, in building the plan and team, getting advisors and suppliers on board.

The biggest issue however is access to capital!. I’ve worked with some investment arrangers, but they could not get real investor traction. My industry isn’t your typical tech and AI that most people go for. It needs significant upfront capital to get it going .We’re in a niche that grows year by year and with no direct head-on competition, strong know-how, and clear advantages.

I managed to find banks willing to finance my business but will have to bring in some equity capital first. However every investment broker asks, “How much are you putting in?”. I’ve already invested what I can. This includes setting up the business, paying for rent, consultants, research, and my full-time effort. I can’t put in more, and that seems to be the deal-braker.

Having said all the above I cannot help but feeling frustrated at this point, or even angry..(some friends say its goods as it makes you harder) that the gatekeepers block me from advancing to the next step.

How would you handle this situation ? What would the alternative routes you would take to raise capital ? Is it that case if you don't have money you cannot make money? Is it how society keeps people in their place ?

And finally what are your on experiences in a similar situation ?

Happy to hear your thoughts :)