RAISING CAPITAL — IT STARTS WITH “HOW”

LinkedIn is my personal go to source of information, a curated alumni of experts, industry peers and thought leaders (I’m not referring to those trying to spam you SEO services!). Following the recent successes of many start-ups in this region and specifically within the mobility sector is compelling, empowering even, yet, also raises some questions.

With MAGNiTT highlighting some massive successes, other mediums promoting the unicorns of turn, and the power KSA demonstrates in innovative investment strategies, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and Hub71 recently leading the announcement of financial innovation, it really does amplify the power of collaboration.

Most of the questions when raising capital start with “How”, I have been delving a little deeper into the understanding of raising capital (as we’ve been on a journey for the past few months).

I’m not writing this entry as a 101 guide to raising investment, I’m not qualified. Since being on this adventure, I’ve been approached by many to share my story and progress. It is a quagmire of discovery, it is also not the only route you should be taking. You have to prove to yourself and your customers your business is needed. My stance is “if you prove your business and meet milestones — then you can at that moment — decide whether or not you want to accept the investment interest you’ll receive”.

When I started ONE MOTO, I never sought a want to raise investment, I believe that to build a successful business, the foundations should be ‘growth through sales’ a simple business model, yet a somewhat antiquated philosophy during these times!? I was mistaken, it was an oversight on my behalf, albeit a positive one.

How? Well our market study and meticulous research into the need for EVs, the want of a ‘switch’ to a cleaner state of mobility was very apparent, yet I had not foreseen the traction we would create so quickly.

Our research turned into a published white paper “Mainstreaming Electric Mobility in the GCC” and…