Business growth doesn’t happen by chance, nor is it usually achieved solely through the company’s own cash flow. Strategic funding applications are among the most critical success factors for growth companies, and we can help you with that, free of charge.
During the growth phase, expenses often increase faster than revenue. Without careful financial planning, the risk of a cash flow crisis grows. It’s essential for the company to understand the costs of growth, assess its financing needs, and justify them convincingly to investors.
A clear, realistic, and well-communicated plan helps identify suitable financiers and ensures that funding supports the company’s long-term growth goals.
You are ready to discuss with investors when you can confidently answer these questions:
- How much funding does my company need now and in the future?
- How will we use the funds, and how will this increase the company’s value?
- When and how will the investor see a return on their investment?
- What level of return is realistic?
- What risks does the investor take when investing in my company?
At Business Turku, we use the Investment Readiness Process by Beels, especially with early-stage companies. This method prepares startups to raise early-stage funding from investors. For example, you can read the story of Inlisol:Inlisol Remote Health Monitoring | Business Turku
What Are the Most Common Challenges in Applying for Funding?
Over the past five years, I have helped hundreds of companies and have seen firsthand the pitfalls of securing financing. In general, the following challenges need to be addressed:
- Finding a common language with investors. Book an appointment with us — we’ll help you craft a message that resonates with investors.
- An incomplete financial plan. Create a realistic cash flow projection covering several years of growth targets and investments.
- Understanding public funding criteria. Discuss with the funding body before submitting your application to avoid misunderstandings or unnecessary rejections.
- Comprehending the terms of financing. Get to know the priorities of different funders — for example, green transition, digitalization, or internationalization may be key to obtaining funding.
- Finding the first investor. Network actively, make use of public programs, and seek investors who understand your industry.
Possible Funding Sources for Growth Companies – Supported by Networks
Growth company financing often consists of multiple sources and funding arrangements implemented at different stages. The most common funding options include:
- Banks that provide loans and may participate in funding syndicates.
- Public financiers, such as regional development centers (which will replace ELY Centres from 2026) and Business Finland, supporting research, development, and internationalization.
- Finnvera, which guarantees loans from other financiers and offers its own loans, particularly for digitalization and green transition projects.
- Institutional investors, such as pension funds, that can provide both equity and debt financing.
- Private investors, from angel investors to private equity funds, who invest in exchange for ownership and can bring valuable expertise and networks.
- Crowdfunding, which allows capital to be raised from a large audience while increasing brand awareness.
Extensive networks can unexpectedly support entrepreneurs in securing funding. That’s why we warmly recommend joining our free funding-themed events, various sector-specific growth programs, and for example, FiBAN (Finnish Business Angels Network) investor events.
See you at our Financial Opportunities – Financing and Growth info session on 26 November!