What Should I Know Before Using a “Money Finder” to Raise Capital?

A “Money Finder” is an individual or company who, for a fee, finds willing investors interested to invest in growing companies. The Finder formally links the Investors and Entrepreneurs with the purpose of creating a mutually beneficial financial arrangement.

Terms

Some terms used here may be unfamiliar. “Intermediary” and “Money Broker”, as used here, are other terms with the same meaning as “Finder.” “Entrepreneur” is an individual who seeks and assumes the risk of business growth, usually through direct ownership and management. “Angel Investor” is an individual with high net worth willing to take the risk of lending money to an Entrepreneur.

How does a Finder find willing Investors?

Finders spend many years building a reliable network of investors. The network is built through business contacts, successful business deals, and the personal reputation of the Finder. The Finder’s network is the heart and foundation of his own entrepreneurial business.

There are many types of Investors, including Institutional Investors, individual or Angel Investors, Venture Capital firm and Private Equity groups. New Investors are added to the Finder’s network on a regular basis, but not without considerable scrutiny, thought and analysis.

How does a Finder find worthy Entrepreneurs?

Many entrepreneurial businesses are ready and worthy of funding, but not all need the services of a Finder. Usually businesses using a Finder 1) need at least $ 1 million, 2) have a strong management team, 3) have a proven track record of growth and potential to continue, and 4) has the ability to generate revenue. Therefore, the Finder usually asks potential clients for information and documentation about their businesses. These include biographies and resumes of the management team, business plans, and financial statements. The Finder evaluates and analyzes the information to propose the best solution for the client.

How are Finders paid?

Finder’s fees are based on the amount of capital received. Usually, the fees are paid in cash or company stock or a combination. In general, the Finders fees are 5 – 10 percent of the amount of capital received with the higher percentage paid for smaller amounts raised. The Finder’s fees are often negotiable and always agreed upon before any services are provided.

Does a Finder need to be licensed?

The SEC, which regulates money-raising activities, sees a Finder as someone who’s acting as a promoter of the sale of securities and thus is required to have a Broker Dealer license. Ben Hendricks from Annacore Business Capital, LLC says” If they don’t have the proper license, then (a) they’re acting illegally and (b) any contract they sign with you is unenforceable, and therefore any portion of their fee that’s based on a percentage of the money raised is not collectable”

If you are an Entrepreneur looking for capital, take the time to ask the right questions before you hire any Finder.