Political officials and your business
There are a vast amount of resources entrepreneurs can utilize when seeking funding to take their business from concept to actuality. Organizations like the Small Business Association, business plan writing tools like Enloop and programs like HUBZone all exist to help business owners who may not know how to create a business plan or have an investor network to call upon. However, one resource that many owners often overlook is the help of city and state government officials.
One of the reasons government leaders are put in office is to help their surrounding communities. They actively look for projects and ventures where they can make this happen, as this increases their humanitarian and philanthropic efforts, and helps a business that’s doing great things for the state.
Getting your messaging right
The best thing to do is make sure your business plan is polished and ready to go, and reach out to a state or city leader through one of the many government websites. You can list out 3-5 proof points of why your business idea will succeed and will be a game changer for the community and be direct in asking for their involvement as a means of improving the community.
Make sure to keep messaging concise, and clearly state the investment amount you’re seeking in order to give the official a thorough view of your request. If your business is poised to promote job growth or develop innovative technologies, these things will reflect positively on the state and any investors that supported it, so make that clear in your anything you present to an official.
Making it a win-win for political officials
Political officials have large networks filled with people of varied backgrounds and net worth. They are successful at mobilizing groups of people that believe in their message and will throw money behind a worthy cause, but they key is communicating the worthiness of their supporting you. By working with an active, or retired, state leader, you can leverage these connections and raise the capital you need to get your business started.
Going this route may take some persistence on your part, but it is possible. It may be best to start with local representatives first, such as a mayor and then work your way upwards. If your efforts prove successful, not only can you boast on the revenue your business brings in, you can also be proud of how it positively reflects on your state of residence as well.
