A couple of years ago I met Sharon Vosmek, CEO of Astia (the leading funder and advisor to women-led high-growth start-ups). Not only is she insanely smart and driven but she also taught me a valuable lesson:
Always be asking for money.
If you know Sharon, you know exactly what I am talking about: Sharon has an amazing (and beautifully charming) way to ask for money in pretty much every conversation she has. She has turned the ask into somewhat of a shtick — a highly effective one. One which makes you smile — and more often than not one which makes you pull out your checkbook.
Nearly every entrepreneur, especially in the early stages of their venture, finds herself in constant fundraising mode. There will be times when fundraising becomes your primary activity — but don’t stop asking for money when it’s not at the forefront of your mind. And asking for money doesn’t only mean investments but sales, pilots, anything which makes you money and supports your growth.
Money is the fuel for your startup. Keep the tank fueled up!