We are at a stage where we are looking to raise some capital. Any thoughts?
Before looking for investors, I started with a pop-up stand at a local farmers market. Once I built a customer base and had proof of demand, I pitched my concept to small investors who saw that I already had traction.
I didn’t wait for investors—I started by offering private catering from my home kitchen. The profits from those first few events helped fund my first small location. Once I had steady revenue, I secured a loan with better terms.
I found my first investor at a local entrepreneur networking event. Many angel investors aren’t looking for tech startups—they love investing in local businesses they can see grow in their own communities.
We used Kickstarter to fund our first batch of artisanal hot sauces. We pre-sold the product before even making it, and that early success attracted investors who wanted to back something with a proven audience.