Successfully attracting investors is not about luck. It's about strategy. At Eyevestor, we believe that finding and retaining investors depends on three crucial pillars: Preparation, Connection and Four Moments. (In Dutch 3V's Voorbereiden, Verbinden & Viermomenten).
1. Preparation
Preparation is the basis. You need to know what you need, why you need it and what you offer investors in return for their trust. This means:
- A clear proposition
- Realistic financial goals
- A convincing growth plan
- Transparent communication about risks and opportunities
Without proper preparation, you run the risk of scaring off investors – or worse, attracting the wrong type of investors.
2. Connection
Connection is about activating your network and involving the right people. Your fans, customers, partners and ambassadors are often your first investors. But connection goes beyond just a LinkedIn post or a mailing:
- Build relationships, not transactions
- Show who you are and what you stand for, make your proposition visible
- Share your story powerfully and activate your community through storytelling, updates and involvement
- Launch your campaign into the world with courage and energy
Strong connection leads to trust. And trust is the foundation of every investment. Companies that connect and ignite are companies that stand out. That show ownership. LABFRESH is a great example of this. They not only raised a million through bonds from 331 customers, but literally put all their investors on the wall of their stores. No empty promise, but a visible community of co-owners. No courage, no investment.
3. Celebrate Moments
A “celebrate moment” is a strategic moment where you reach – and share – a milestone. It can be:
- Launching your campaign
- Raising a certain amount of money
- Raising your first 10, 50 or 100 investors
- Or even a completed round of new growth capital
Why are these moments so important? Because people want to be part of something that is moving, growing and being celebrated. Four moments:
- Building momentum
- Providing new energy in your campaign
- Are proof that you are making progress
But an important insight: do not raise more than is necessary to create the next four moment. By thinking in smaller, focused rounds, you keep control, create scarcity and strengthen urgency.
A continuous cycle
The power of the three V’s lies in their coherence. A successful four moment forms the start of a new phase of preparation and connection. This is not a linear process, but a loop:
➡️ Prepare for your next step
➡️ Connect with a broader or different group of investors
➡️ Create a new celebration
... and again.
Whether you raise €25,000 or €2,500,000 – the three V's remain relevant. Even after successful growth financing. Because growth continuously requires trust, connection and momentum.
Finally
At Eyevestor, we don't just help you raise money. We help you build an investment-ready organization. By embracing the three V’s as a strategy, you increase your chances of success – now and in the future.