A successful business starts not only with an idea but also with the ability to convince others of its value.
Businessman and investor Vadym Iermolaiev shared his vision of how to make an investor truly “fall in love” with a startup or business initiative.
1. A Clear Vision: Show You See Beyond the Starting Point
“An investor isn’t interested in just an idea — they care about where it leads,” says Iermolaiev. “If you can clearly explain what will happen in a year, three years, and five years, that’s already half the battle.”
It’s crucial to demonstrate a deep understanding not only of your product but also of the market, the competitive landscape, and potential for growth. A strong vision is what builds trust.
2. Your Team Is the Heart of the Project
Investors don’t just invest in ideas — they invest in people.
“If I see a strong, cohesive team that complements each other and knows how to adapt, that’s always a plus,” Iermolaiev emphasizes.
It’s not enough to present CVs — you need to show how the team works together and solves challenges. Positive energy and mutual trust within the team are a powerful magnet for investors.
3. Show Financial Responsibility
“When someone comes asking for a million dollars, I want to see that they’ve thought about every cent,” Iermolaiev shares.
Investors value entrepreneurs who have carefully developed a financial model, know exactly how funds will be allocated, and can justify each decision. The more realistic and transparent the budget, the greater the trust.
4. Build a Bridge, Not a Tower of Words
“A lot of people come with a presentation, but few build a dialogue,” Iermolaiev notes.
He advises focusing not on “selling” the project but on creating a partnership. Ask questions, listen, and show genuine interest in the investor’s perspective. That’s how you build a bridge of communication — and trust moves across that bridge.
5. Emotions Matter Too
Despite numbers, analytics, and facts, Iermolaiev stresses:
“An investor is also a human being. They want to feel something.”
The founder’s passion, belief in the idea, and emotional involvement are contagious. If you yourself are not “in love” with your project, you won’t be able to inspire anyone else with that energy.
Conclusion
To make an investor fall in love with your project, you need to be not only a strategist and a financier but also a strong communicator and an inspiring leader. As Vadym Iermolaiev says:
“Money goes where there is transparency, confidence, and humanity.”
And this very triad often becomes the driving force behind great change.