Startup Talk Podcast – “How to get investors in 2025”
In this insightful episode of the Startup Talk Podcast, our panel of experienced founders and investors dive into the evolving landscape of venture capital and what startups need to know as they approach investors in 2025.
How to get investors in 2025 Key Takeaways:
1. Traction Is Essential: Investors in 2025 are more focused than ever on seeing actual revenue or solid customer traction. The days of securing major funding with just an idea or a large follower base are long gone, especially in Canada. Founders must demonstrate real progress, whether through pilots or paying customers.
2. Post-Revenue Deals Are Preferred: Since 2022, Canadian investors have shifted away from early-stage, pre-revenue companies. While Silicon Valley may still offer exceptions, Canadian investors want to see companies that are already generating revenue. Startups should approach investors with a “rocket already taking off” mindset—showing that their business is already successful and that investment will simply accelerate growth.
3. Product Market Fit and Scalability: Strong business fundamentals, scalable solutions, and product-market fit are critical. Investors want to see a solid, well-thought-out plan that addresses a clear market need.
4. AI and Social Impact Are Trending: Having an AI element in your product is becoming almost essential for investor interest. Additionally, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics are increasingly important, and companies that can demonstrate a positive social impact may have an advantage.
5. Painkillers, Not Vitamins: Investors are drawn to startups that solve real, pressing problems for customers—products that are “painkillers” rather than “vitamins.” Founders should focus on developing solutions that customers can’t live without, rather than those that are simply nice to have.
6. Engagement With Customers: Even for pre-revenue startups, demonstrating meaningful customer engagement is vital. Investors want to see that the founding team has had significant conversations with their target audience and has validated their product with early adopters.
How to get investors in 2025 Memorable Quotes:
• “Investors want to feel that your company is the proverbial rocket already taking off. They’re not interested in funding the build; they want to fund the acceleration.”
• “In 2025, it’s all about traction, actual revenue, and proving your product has paying customers. No more checks for just an idea or a social media following.”
How to get investors in 2025 Speaker Contact Information:
1. John Irwin:
• Preferred Contact: LinkedIn
• Canadian Companies book a free assessment for Government Funding
2. Jeff Hodeman:
• Preferred Contact: LinkedIn
3. Alex Morsink:
• Preferred Contact: LinkedIn
• More resources available at the Equivesto Learning Center
4. Graeme Barlow:
• Social Platforms: @Graemebarlow on all social platforms, LinkedIn, IG, X • Website: GraemeBarlow.com
General Resources and Funding Platforms:
1. Maple Leaf Angels: Toronto’s largest angel investment group.
Website: https://mapleleafangels.com/
2. Foresight (Clean Tech Accelerator): Clean tech-focused accelerator in Vancouver.
Website: https://foresightcac.com/
3. Equivesto: A Canadian licensed online investment platform & equity crowdfunding portal.
Website: https://equivesto.com/
4. Canada Summer Jobs: Government program for wage subsidies for summer interns.
Website:https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/canada-summer-jobs.html
5. Shred (Scientific Research and Experimental Development): Tax credit program for Canadian businesses conducting R&D.
6. IRAP (Industrial Research Assistance Program): Grants for R&D projects.Website: https://nrc.canada.ca/en/support-technology-innovation
7. Scale AI: Funding for AI projects in value chains.Website: https://www.scaleai.ca/
8. Business Benefits Finder: Searchable database for Canadian government funding options.
• Website: Business Benefits Finder
9. Angel Investors Ontario: Provides a list of angel investment groups in Ontario.
• Website: https://www.angelinvestorsontario.ca/
10. TorontoStarts: Toronto’s startup community and resource hub.
• Website: TorontoStarts.com
11. Startup Drinks Toronto: A networking event for startups. • Website: StartupDrinksto.com
Additional Resources
For those looking to dive deeper into the world of tech and entrepreneurship, we recommend checking out the following resources and links:
- Silicon Scoop Podcast – Stay Informed, Stay Ahead!
- Futuretech Podcast – Explore more episodes and stay updated with the latest in technology and innovation.
- Startup Talk Podcast – https://torontostarts.com/startup-talk-toronto-startup-podcast/
- Who Are These Startups Podcast
- Startup Investor Drinks – Join the community and connect with fellow startup enthusiasts and investors.
- TorontoStarts Startup and Entrepreneur Community – Become a part of Toronto’s thriving startup ecosystem.
- Workhaus – Discover flexible workspace solutions for your business needs.
- Work with The Startup Coach – Get expert guidance and mentorship for your startup journey.
- Reach out to Jon Irwin on LinkedIn – Connect with our co-host and technology expert.
