(1) Vision
There are very few ideas that are unique. If it’s a genuinely good idea, the chances are someone else has had the same thought already. What investors look for in a business plan is a vision that sets you apart. How does your ability to look into the future impact your business in a positive way? Think of the success Apple enjoyed under Steve Jobs. Apple wasn’t the first company to come up with an MP3 player or smartphone, but the company’s vision for how they could be used in conjunction propelled it to unprecedented success over the years.(2) Commitment
(3) Specifics
Investors are busy people. They want cold, hard facts. I speak to many investors who are fed up with “finger in the air” predictions. Don’t mention that the market you’re entering is worth around £Xm. Do your research and find out exactly how much it’s worth. Not only does this show that you’ve done proper research and due diligence, but it’s also a sign of respect to the investor that you are not trying to pull the wool over their eyes with spin and hyperbole. [rb_inline_related](4) Realism
Avoid words like revolutionise and transform. You’re not Mark Zuckerberg. This isn’t 2007. Be realistic in your expectations for the business.(5) Valuation
The valuation of a business is crucial when it comes to securing investment. Too high and you risk looking foolish, too low and you risk signing over a significant amount of equity that could otherwise have been in your pocket. For too long, entrepreneurs have relied on “guestimate” valuations which offer little value to investors reading their business plan. Use a business tool to secure an accurate valuation for your business that might just help seal the deal when it comes to raising capital. The key thing to remember is that investors see an abundance of business plans each week and it’s your job to make them think that, for whatever reason, your business plan is worth a second glance. Thierry Clarke is the CEO and co-founder of InvestorConnectedShare this story