A mid-career founder launched a high-end marketplace to connect specialty food producers directly with buyers, cutting out the middlemen. The platform was live, and a few early users had signed up — but no one was actually transacting.
They were preparing to pitch investors, thinking that funding would unlock growth. The reality? Without proof the marketplace could move product, investors were unlikely to bite. Worse, going in too soon risked burning valuable introductions and leaving a lukewarm first impression they couldn’t take back.
Through our Investment Readiness Assessment, we examined the business through an investor’s lens. We identified the missing proof points and showed the founder why timing mattered as much as the pitch itself. We mapped out a clear plan to focus on driving real transactions before seeking capital, protecting their investor relationships and increasing the likelihood of a “yes” later.
Instead of chasing capital prematurely, the founder pivoted to building traction first. Now, when they return to those investor meetings, they’ll walk in with the one thing that turns “nice idea” into “take my money”: undeniable proof that their marketplace works.
Thinking about raising? The right timing can make or break your funding journey. Book your Investment Readiness Assessment to find out if you’re ready — or what to do first to get there.
