Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Texas Entrepreneur Network (TEN) Infographic -- Business Funding Texas



Business Funding Texas is a Texas Intrastate Crowdfunding portal. The state of Texas passed its Intrastate Crowdfunding law at the end of 2014, allowing any resident of Texas to invest in a startup.  Unaccredited investors are limited to $5K/person/deal/year.  The law is much simpler than the JOBS Act recently passed by the SEC which requires more reporting, more detailed income tests, and financial audits.  Accredited investors in Texas can invest as much as they want.

The Intrastate Crowdfunding raise works well for consumer facing businesses that have a large network of unaccredited investors.  Microbreweries, wineries, distilleries, and consumer product good companies are ideal candidates.  The fund raise is primarily an exercise in having your customers invest in your business.  The raise strengthens your business beyond just funding in that it builds a strong group of enthusiasts and advocates around your business who will then support and promote your business to others.

Also, the experience of running a crowdfunding campaign can teach a new company a great deal about sales and marketing.  Crowdfunding is essentially investment marketing.  One learns how to create and run a campaign which can prove valuable in building the skills to sell and promote the product.

Businesses which can raise funding from their customers/clients are well positioned to raise additional money from accredited investors as it demonstrates a loyal following for you and your business.  

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