Understanding funding basics and exploring multiple capital options to prepare businesses for successful investment readiness.
The Brink SBDC at University of San Diego, Knauss School of Business presents Investor Readiness: Funding Fundamentals Exploring Diverse Captial Pathways.
In this Investor Readiness workshop, founders will gain a clear understanding of the full spectrum of capital options available to early-stage companies—and how to choose the right path at the right time. Led by Silvia Mah, a seasoned angel investor, venture advisor, and professor of entrepreneurship, this session helps founders move beyond a “VC-only” mindset toward more strategic, values-aligned funding decisions.
Hosted at The Brink SBDC, the workshop breaks down equity and non-dilutive capital options, investor expectations, and trade-offs founders must consider before raising. Founders will learn how different capital pathways impact ownership, governance, growth pace, and long-term outcomes—so they can fundraise with intention, not pressure.
What You’ll Learn:
- Clarity on Capital Options
- Understand the differences between bootstrapping, grants, angels, venture capital, revenue-based financing, and strategic partnerships—and when each makes sense.
- Strategic Capital Alignment
- Learn how to align funding choices with your business model, stage, growth goals, and personal founder values rather than chasing capital prematurely.
- Confidence in Funding Conversations
- Walk away with language and frameworks to explain your chosen capital strategy clearly and credibly to investors, advisors, and stakeholders.
