- How it works
- Why invest
- What you get when you invest
- How returns work
- Understanding deal terms
- How we select campaigns
- How to invest
- Risks
- Fees
For more answers see our FAQ
How we select campaigns
We carefully evaluate each application we receive and accept campaigns that meet our criteria. Our selection process includes a comprehensive review of the company's business, verification of information, Know Your Client (KYC) procedures, and a final review by our Investment Committee. While we strive to present fair, clear, and not misleading information, it's important to note that all investments carry inherent risks.
In addition, we invest personally in the campaigns, demonstrating our confidence in the companies we choose to work with.
Initial Screening
Our initial screening focuses on the general idea, team, business model, market potential, and other important factors. We ask ourselves and the company's founders key questions to get to know the business better.
"We choose quality over quantity"
Founders
Perhaps the most important factor when considering an investment in an early venture is the team behind it. We assess whether the team has the necessary experience and knowledge to execute the plan, if they have a strong network to help them open doors in their respective fields, and whether they are competent and capable of delivering results to investors.
Product/Service
We evaluate if there is a real problem that the product or service solves, at what stage of development it is, and whether it uses the right technologies and infrastructure to be scalable and succeed in international markets.
Track Record
We look for any track record in terms of sales or interested clients, evidence in the market that the company has strong traction, and positive reviews about the product or service.
Financial Projections
We analyse the company's burn rate, how long the venture can survive before it needs to raise more capital, whether the unit economics make sense over the long term, and if the valuation is fair for investors.
Market
We consider the current market share, potential market share, and the total size of the target market. We assess whether the target market is growing, if there is existing competition, and whether there are high barriers to entry.
Vision
We examine the long-term vision of the company and whether it makes sense. We look at its core values and if they resonate with the target audience.
Information Review
After the initial screening, we conduct a detailed review of the company's financials, management team, management team, and market research to validate the information that will be presented to our investors. If necessary, we work with external advisors and partners to assist us.
Supporting Documentation
We request supporting documentation to substantiate the company's claims, including but not limited to audited financial statements (where available), management accounts, certificate of shareholders, business plan, website analytics, digital advertising analytics, code review, and memorandum and articles of association.
The type of documents requested can vary depending on the company's age and industry. Our goal is to present information that is fair, clear, and not misleading. However, despite our efforts, we cannot eliminate all risks associated with investing in early-stage companies.
Know Your Client (KYC)
All Directors of the company raising capital with us undergo an identity verification procedure via our third-party identity verification service provider, SumSub. SumSub runs database checks to verify their identity and screens against sanctions lists and politically exposed persons (PEP) lists. We also ask for a clean criminal record of all Directors, issued by the relevant authority.
Valuation
Valuing startups can often be more of an art than a science due to the highly uncertain nature of the business. We use certain frameworks and parameters that allow us to make a reasonable estimate of the company's value and potential, ensuring the investment opportunity is fair for investors.
Final Decision
Once all the information is collected and reviewed, our Investment Committee decides whether to approve the company to raise funds on Crowdbase. The Investment Committee consists of both internal staff of Crowdbase and external advisors who offer insights in their areas of expertise.
While we make every effort to select promising companies, we acknowledge that investing in early-stage businesses involves inherent risks. We encourage all investors to perform their own research and consider seeking advice from independent financial advisors before making investment decisions.
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