Fundraising doesn’t start with an e-mail to potential investors. Entrepreneurs should only connect with investors after intensive assessment of their project, including having their business case challenged and validated from a critical outside point-of-view.
Founders are often focused on the development of their technology or assays and do not find the necessary time and resources for the fundraising strategy. Our CEO Pascal Winnen, who is also an Innosuisse accredited Special Coach for Fundraising and Investor Relations, often reminds our start-ups of the Chinese proverb: “Sharpening the axe won’t delay the work”.
Connecting with investors is like going for a job interview, it all starts with the entrepreneur herself! The first impression she leaves with the potential investor is key and probably influences the overall outcome. Scientifically driven founders need to think how to tell and sell their success story. The pitch deck is like a CV: it needs to be comprehensive and clear. Don’t be afraid to stand out of the crowd!
COVID-19 will most probably not have a positive impact for fundraising. This global coronavirus pandemic is new and a lot about it is still unknown. It’s hard to predict what the long-term economic impact of COVID-19 on the market will be. In the current situation, investors are expected to react more cautiously when it comes to early-stage and high-risk projects. We are already seeing that some investors are steering clear from the start-up financing space.
The bottom line: the situation in the stock markets is tense and uncertain. In these ambiguous times, start-ups need to plan for longer fundraising rounds and prepare accurately for their fundraising. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our start-up team if you need additional support.
Inquiries:
Hemex AG, Start-up scouting team
Franziska Stemmler
+41 61 927 28 02 / franziska.stemmler@hemex.ch
Sars-CoV-2 NOTICE:
As we are closely monitoring the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, our main priority at HEMEX is the health and safety of our community and associates. Sharing the responsibility for the public´s health, we are taking every precaution possible to limit the spread of infection, while ensuring continuity of operations.
From this week forward, all HEMEX employees are encouraged to work from home. We fully support remote collaboration using a variety of tele- and videoconference options. Our team can be contacted via the regular email or phone contact details during usual business hours.
Remaining 100% compliant with the latest information and guidelines from public health officials, we will continuously assess the situation and act accordingly.
In case of questions or uncertainties, please feel free to reach out to us at info@hemex.ch