Feature:
Is There Money Out There For Growing Businesses?

Entrepreneurial America has never been more vibrant, creative, productive or innovative than when the markets are down. The collapse of public stock values for even "Blue Chip” companies is driving investors to seek alternate ways to recover their portfolio losses. Angel Investors and Venture Capital firms differ in their investment criteria from banks. Banks want to know when they will get repaid. A business must have cash flow and collateral to qualify. And despite rumors, banks are still lending. You just have to reach out to those that did not loan money to real estate development projects. With the SBA stepping up to guarantee even more of the loan, in some ways it is easier than ever to get an SBA loan. But for companies that are in an early stage, with only a little revenue or none at all, they must turn to investors. Investors want to know how big the company can get and what their exit will be so they can get a multiple on their money. This is the capital source that dynamic growth companies in healthcare and biotechnology, alternative and green energy, digital media and software arenas turn to.

When all the fundamentals of a successful business are present (growing target market, product that satisfies an unmet need in the market, and a management team with the knowledge and experience to execute), growth capital can be obtained. Savvy investors will investigate, identify and selectively invest in those companies with the greatest potential for high returns. And to attract this capital, these companies need to get the word out and present their opportunity at venture conferences and angel groups.

How can investors and entrepreneurs find each other in these economic times? One of the best ways for entrepreneurs to link up with investors is through regional conferences such as the Southeast Private Equity Conference (SPEC) being held on April 14-15. Conferences like these offer opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs to meet and learn about each other in an informal atmosphere that is conducive to discussion and sharing information. Typically there is a screening process to ensure a good fit between the companies and the investors attending the conference.

Atlanta is rapidly becoming the hotbed of innovation and capital formation for the Southeast. Not surprisingly, there are three venture capital forums scheduled for 2009. SE Venture Conference, Venture Atlanta and the Southeast Private Equity Conference (SPEC) all seek to help the economy by connecting worthy companies with investors. SPEC 2009 is unique because it benefits the early stage company that is seeking angel investors as well as early stage venture capital funds. Entrepreneurs and investors seeking to be economic architects - builders of change that will bring prosperity to all involved - should make plans to attend conferences such as SPEC 2009 so they can meet, connect and build the future together.

Karen Rands, a member of the IO family since 2002, is President of LAUNCHfn and coordinator for the (SPEC) Southeast Private Equity Conference, April 14-15 in Atlanta.

Get info and register at www.sePrivateEquity.com/register.html. Sponsorship opportunities still available. Call 888-569-0464 or Karen Rands at 678-222-3473 or www.launchfn.com.