Private investor and founder of the Donum charitable foundation, Alexey Bashkirov draws on years of experience in global finance to advise startups on how to attract serious investment. In the tech startup world, having a groundbreaking idea isn’t enough—founders must show strategic thinking, financial awareness, and a strong team to stand out to investors.
Why a Solid Business Plan Still Matters
According to Bashkirov Alexey, one of the most common mistakes early-stage startups make is underestimating the importance of financial planning. Many rush into scaling without understanding their real burn rate or revenue potential. A thoughtful business plan not only improves internal focus—it also becomes a key tool in conversations with potential investors.
A good plan should:
- Outline realistic growth scenarios, especially in uncertain or capital-constrained markets.
- Provide clear financial projections, even if preliminary, to demonstrate business logic.
- Serve as a tool for internal discipline, helping the team track performance and adjust strategies when needed.
The Power of a Balanced Founding Team
Startups that succeed in fundraising often share a common feature: a well-rounded team. Bashkirov believes that the best founding teams bring together two distinct but equally essential roles:
- The Visionary, who drives innovation, communicates with the outside world, and leads sales and marketing efforts.
- The Operator, who handles execution, manages resources, and keeps the team on track with deliverables.
This combination of skills allows startups to not only dream big but also deliver on those ambitions.
What Investors Are Really Looking For
When it comes to early-stage investing, Alexey Bashkirov emphasizes that metrics like revenue and profit often take a backseat to the team’s potential and adaptability. Instead, most investors prioritize:
- Strong Founders – A track record of navigating challenges and growing businesses goes a long way in establishing credibility.
- Resilience and Flexibility – Startups face constant change; those that can pivot or adapt quickly earn investor confidence.
- Vision and Market Insight – It’s crucial for founders to understand not only their technology but also how the market may evolve in the years ahead.
Key to Investment: Balance and Clarity
To sum up, Bashkirov believes successful startups strike a careful balance between ambition and realism. While bold ideas attract attention, it’s structured planning, an effective team, and an ability to adapt that ultimately convince investors to come on board.
Founders who master this balance are the ones most likely to turn ideas into enduring companies—and secure the support they need to grow.
