Cheatsheet: How to raise smart, not just fast

Funding Wisdom from Our Roundtable with Andy Hodgetts

On Thursday 29th May, a select group of TFN members gathered for an intimate roundtable breakfast with Andy Hodgetts of Infinity CF - a fundraising expert with a wealth of experience supporting founders at every stage of business growth.

Previously an M&A advisor at Buzzacott, Andy came ready to arm us with the insights founders need to raise smart, not just fast and he absolutely delivered.

This is a break-down of our personal highlights from the discussion for you to take back into your business and help accelerate your own progress.

The Cheatsheet for Fundraising

1. Design your business for growth not just for your investors

   Otherwise we’d all be building B2B SaaS with huge margins.
   

2. Investors want to believe in you

   Look them in the eye and show them you can execute.
   

3. Target the right capital for your stage

   Need £100k? Think angels. Need millions? You’ll want to go VC - unless you’re in with billionaires.
   

4. Equity is precious

   You can always stop spending, but you can’t take equity back.
   

5. SEIS/EIS is gold It resets the clock and keeps you VCT-eligible forever. If you can, always get it in.
   

6. Keep it clean

   A smart cap table is a simple one. Too many sources = future headaches.
   

7. Use the right specialist legal support

   Make sure your lawyer has real experience with rounds like yours.
   

8. Know who you’re getting into business with

   Deals exist for when you don’t agree. Grab a pint, get to know your investor, and ask: will they have your back?
   

9. Be visible

   Align your fundraising timeline with your ideal investor’s. Get in the right rooms and make your intent crystal clear.

   
   

---

A full recording of the event is now available to watch.