Most great businesspeople I’ve met would correctly advise an entrepreneur to avoid raising money if possible. Easy for them to say, right? But there are good reasons to bootstrap. First, you maintain control of the company. Second, maintaining control allows you to experiment and learn where the business is “naturally” going. Third, if you own the company, you can have a great exit at a low price. Fourth, if you’re able to build the company without significant outside capital that may mean your business has even more “real” legs.
Practical Advice for Raising Early Stage Venture Capital
Avoid these common pitfalls when negotiating with venture capitalists.
September 06, 2012
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New!
HBR Learning
Finance Essentials Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Finance Essentials. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Strengthen your fluency in financial statements.