Just like a sales force needs a list of potential customers to call on, you need a list of potential investors to contact. But how do you create a list when you have no contacts?

There are four ways to develop a list of potential investors:

1. Use a consulting firm
2. Buy an Investor Database
3. Create your own list off the Web
4. Use resources at the public library

Each has its own pros and cons. For example, consulting firms can be pricy but give you access to senior-level skills and experience and can save you time finding the most current contact information for Angel Investors and Venture Capitalist. Compare this to buying an investor database which can be a cost-effective solution but can go stale quickly.

Here are some resources that can help you get started on building your list of potential investors:

The IRA Network

The IRA Network is a network of affiliates and associates that has assisted companies in procuring from $50,000 to tens of millions of capital for a diverse roster of clientele. They've been around for over 20 years.

Venture Planning Associates

They will assist you in completing your financing through angel investors, formal venture capital firms, companies looking for joint venture opportunities, banks or other lending institutions, and/or state and federal assistance programs.

EzInfoFind

This is a comprehensive, categorized database of Venture Capital firms. It includes private equity firms, private investors, and investment companies. Contains contact information for over 3,600 investors worldwide!

VCPro Database

A downloadable venture capital and private equity directory that contains complete profiles of over 3,300 venture capital firms worldwide. Available in both Windows and Macintosh formats. (Published since 1998.)

Pratt’s Guide to Private Equity Sources. Newark, N.J.: Thomson Venture Economics, c2003-ISBN/ISSN: 0884-1616

Remember, don't put the cart before the horse. Before you start contacting potential investors be sure you have a well articulated business plan and have prepared your elevator pitch and oral arguments.

To your success,

Mike Elia

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