As a startup founder, you’re likely brimming with confidence, passion, and optimism when you embark on your capital-raising journey. After all, no one has invested as much time and effort as you have to turn your vision into reality. However, as you start engaging with potential investors, you’ll gain a different perspective on the amount of work your capital raising requires and what investors think about your business.

Capital raising is not a quick and easy process. It requires patience, diligence, and a strong mindset to navigate the highs and lows of the journey. One of the key concepts to understand in this process is “delayed gratification.” This principle emphasises the importance of being patient and persistent, recognising that the actions you take today will impact your business six to twelve months in the future.

Capital raising is about building relationships, trust, and respect with investors over time. It’s not uncommon for investors to become shareholders after years of hard work and diligence. This process involves creating visibility, having meaningful conversations, and setting up an investor-friendly process. It’s about moving potential investors from registering their interest in your business to actually investing in it.

The concept of delayed gratification is a humbling reminder that success doesn’t come overnight. It takes time to build a successful business and attract potential investors. For instance, Booktopia, an online retailer in Australia, became a successful investment after a conversation with an investor. This example highlights the significance of creating opportunities for interactions and making deals at the right time and place.

Actively involving investors and shareholders in your business is crucial. This can be achieved by providing regular updates, showcasing your milestones, and demonstrating your business’s progress. Remember, there are always people watching your actions, so it’s essential to communicate effectively and consistently.

Capital raising is a journey that requires understanding, patience, and persistence. Embracing the concept of delayed gratification can help you navigate this journey more effectively. It’s about understanding that the actions you take today will impact your business in the future. So, as you embark on your capital raising journey, remember to be patient, diligent, and persistent. These principles will guide you towards success.