When it comes to running a small business, finding the right investors can make all the difference. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale up, the right investment can help you reach aspirations you may not be able to achieve alone. After all, businesses need more than just passion and grit—they need capital to support their growth.
That’s where investors come in.
What are investors?
Investors are individuals or organisations that provide financial backing to help businesses thrive. In return, they often gain equity, a share of profits, or another form of return on their investment. In the world of startups and small businesses, investors are vital in helping you achieve your goals as your own financial backing can often only go so far. Sometimes, you just need that extra helping hand to get there.
Why should small businesses consider investors?
Many small business owners tend to take everything on themselves. But before diving in too deep without the necessary capital, it’s vital to start building connections with investors early on. This will better position you to handle the demands of your growing business. Here are four compelling reasons why reaching out to investors can make all the difference:
- Investors can help fill gaps in funding that traditional lenders might not cover, especially for new businesses without a long financial history.
- Many investors bring industry knowledge and mentorship, offering insights that can steer your business in the right direction.
- Investors often have established networks that can connect you with new clients, potential partners, or other investors.
- With the right investment, small businesses can access new tools, technologies, and different markets to expand to more quickly.
How to find the right investors
Don’t just take the first investor that comes your way. It’s important that you are careful with who you pick. Why? Because they will become your go-to and you want to invest time and energy in someone you can trust. Here are some characteristics to look out for when seeking an investor:
1. Search for someone who aligns with your business goals and values. They want the same outcome and care about the growth and impact of your business as much as you do. A misaligned vision can lead to conflict down the road.
2. Connect with an investor who understands your industry very well and is able to provide more than just financial backing. You want someone who can offer advice, contacts, and guidance.
3. Find an investor that will believe in your long-term potential and won’t push for quick wins at the expense of sustainable success.
Once you have a list of some you are interested in working with, search their track record and speak to other businesses they’ve worked with to understand their approach and reliability.
Where to find the right investors in Canberra
Small business or startup in Canberra? Don’t worry, there are many ways to get connected with investors to scale your business:
1. Local Networking Events: The city of Canberra hosts various business networking events and meetups where you can pitch your ideas to potential investors. Search up local events through social media, especially LinkedIn, to see what’s in your area.
2. Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN): A hub for entrepreneurs and startups, CBRIN regularly hosts workshops, investor pitch nights, and other events tailored to connecting businesses with funding opportunities. They have weekly newsletters and monthly networking events—get involved!
3. Government Programs: Grants such as Innovation Connect or Social Enterprise can connect small businesses with funding opportunities.
4. Angel Investor Groups: Groups like Capital Angels in Canberra specialise in supporting early-stage businesses and is a great way to seek investment.
5. Coworking Spaces: Coworking spaces like Haven Workspaces are often hotspots for entrepreneurs and investors alike, providing a collaborative environment where they come together.
Grow your network and connect with an investor today
Finding investors for your business might feel daunting, but with the right approach, it’s entirely achievable. By attending industry events, leveraging local organisations, and aligning your goals with potential investors, you can secure the support your business needs to thrive.
Looking to connect with like-minded professionals and grow your business? At Haven Workspaces in Canberra, we’re more than just a coworking space—we’re a hub for collaboration and innovation. We offer a wide range of flexible working options such as flex desks and virtual addresses where you can meet other startups but also hold networking opportunities to connect you with new individuals anywhere from partners, to investors, to customers.
Contact us today to see how we can help you on your journey to success.
