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A business model is the idea that underlies a successful business. It describes how the business creates value for customers, delivers that value to them, and captures a portion of the value for its owners. Every successful business, no matter how large or small, complex or simple, operates according to a business model that makes sense. (Of course, some large, complex companies operate according to several business models at once, since they include divisions or departments that create, deliver, and capture value in varying ways. But don’t let that confuse you.) Therefore, one of the most important steps you need to take as an entrepreneur is to transform your business idea into a business model that shows how you’ll create, deliver, and capture value.

As a founder, you likely have a lot on your mind. Raising capital for your startup is probably near the top of your mental "to-do" list, but chances are you haven't really gotten around to starting on it just yet. It’s important to raise capital to support growth and scalability in the early stages. While it might be a stressful task, raising capital isn't really something you can leave on the back burner.

How has fundraising changed in the last few years? Between COVID, the evolution of the API economy, and an increase in second, third & fourth time founders who are seeking funding. Janelle van Deventer breaks down the options for raising capital through bootstrapping, dilutive investors, government subsides and various forms of debt.

There are thousands of articles and a few books including my book, The Pitch Deck Book: How To Present Your Business And Secure Investors, on putting together the best pitch deck for investors, but how should you end your pitch?

Angel investing in the past few years has moved from an arcane backwater of the financial world to a business arena that receives coverage in mainstream newspapers and hit television shows such as ABC’s Shark Tank. Today, any sophisticated investor with a portfolio of alternate assets should consider direct, early-stage investments in private companies as one potential component of that portfolio.