
Scaling a business is both an art and science. One close look at any successful establishment hints at how the perfect combination of these two elements can not only make any idea come to life but also scale it beyond expectations. Â
However, even though you might have the basics right, no business can continue growing without proper funding. Irrespective of your industry, it is paramount that you tap into the right funding sources when the time arrives. But how do you know for sure that the time is now?  Â
In this article, we will share 7 signs to spot the perfect time for raising more funds.
Spotting the Opportunity
Today’s founders have access to a plethora of funding opportunities. Right from traditional sources such as bank loans and angel investments to alternative sources such as recurring revenue financing and working capital loans. Â
With so many options, founders are not limited; however, they must consider that getting approved for each financing method entails a different process. For instance, VC investment may take one to two pitch meetings to get approved, while you can get approved for a working capital loan in under 2 weeks. Â
Thus, the benefit lies in spotting the opportunity and pairing the right funding option for that stage. Â
7 Signs You Need to Keep An Eye On
Shared below are 7 signs you should keep an eye on to recognize what type of financing will be best suited for you.Â
1. Your Growth has StagnatedÂ
Most businesses fail due to either of these reasons – they have failed to grow quickly, or they have scaled quickly without having the proper growth infrastructure in place. While this might appear to be demotivating at first, it is important to realize that how you scale your business in its initial days can make or break it. Â
To keep things in order, you not only need to grow quickly but also have the proper infrastructure in place to meet the increased demand. Â
If you have been struggling in either of these areas in the past year with little improvement, it is time for you to seek new funding. Â
2. You Have a Poor Credit History Â
Most founders approach traditional financial institutions such as banks as their first source of funding. However, as most of these institutions run on legacy infrastructure, often, early-stage founders are rejected for their lack of credit score. While we can all debate on how this is an unjustified and unfair appraisal method, especially for growing businesses, it is what it is. Â
3. The Sacred VC Inner Circle
Any founder who has tried to raise funding for their business has struggled with this challenge at least once. It is true that a single VC investment can change the course of your entire business; however, securing a meeting with a potential investor is not an easy task. Â
The reality is most VCs and investment firms receive thousands of applications every day from founders around the world. With such intense competition and so many options to choose from, it is not surprising that only a select few secure an investment. Â
Thus, an accepted methodology is that you need to be a part of their inner circle just to book a meeting, and since most founders struggle at getting in, this is often a sign to look into other investment avenues. Â
4. The Sacred VC Inner Circle
It is the dream of any business to have a constant demand for their product, but few are successful in manifesting this. If you are lucky enough to have a consistent demand for your product, your next step should be to upgrade your infrastructure to match the same. Â
However, to increase your production capacity, you need to infuse new funds, and few institutions will agree to lend you money on just market data. The solution – seek out alternate lenders who are willing to look at the bigger picture and bet on your potential for success. Â
5. Your Community is Helping you GrowÂ
Every business, irrespective of the industry, thrives on its customer base. As you have already spent countless hours nurturing a loyal community and customer base, you are set to reap the result of consistent demand for your product and services. Â
However, just like our last point, the question remains as to how you meet this new demand for your products. Added to this, it is difficult to translate a loyal customer base into actual business metrics to convince investors. Â
Thus, this is your indication to look into alternate sources of funding. Â
6. Numbers don’t Lie
As a business, it is crucial that you analyze your key metrics and revisit your numbers time and again. For instance, if you are confused between focusing on growing your business or scaling your operations infrastructure, look at what the numbers say. In terms of raising funds as well, your numbers will do the job. Â
For instance, analyze your cash burn and runway to estimate when you should raise more funds to consistently maintain your business’s growth. Based on the answers you get – you can safely choose which funding will be best for you at this stage of your growth.Â
7. You are Leaving Growth Opportunities on the TableÂ
Most businesses fail to spot the right growth opportunities, and even worse, those who do might leave them on the table. As a founder, it is crucial that you analyze your industry closely and always look out for the next big opportunity for your business. Â
However, if you need to choose between arms of your business or leave growth opportunities unattended for lack of funding, now is the time to reach out to alternate lenders. Â
Conclusion – How Alternative Financing Can Help your BusinessÂ
While it is true that modern founders have access to a lot more funding options as compared to a decade ago, unfortunately, most have a high barrier to entry. Alternative financing options can help you change just that. Â
By leveraging financing products such as recurring revenue financing, short-term loans and innovative working capital, you can seamlessly take your business to new heights without burning a hole in your pocket or letting go of ownership. Â
Interested in learning more? Get in touch with us today.Â

