University of Twente Student Theses
Designing a Funding Platform for Startup and Investor Evolving Needs in the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem : The Orange Mill - A Case Study
Smit, Koen (2024) Designing a Funding Platform for Startup and Investor Evolving Needs in the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem : The Orange Mill - A Case Study.
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| Abstract: | Startups are pivotal in fostering innovation and propelling economic growth, while investors are vital contributors to startups. Alternative finance platforms arise as proper solutions to connect entrepreneurs with investors. This study explores what entrepreneurs and investors need, the determinants of the relationship, and how to build a funding platform, using a qualitative approach. Results show that early-stage startups seek financial resources, social capital, and strategic mentorship from investors, while human capital becomes paramount towards the growth phase. Investors require various criteria from startups, in which the founder’s criteria are the most important, evolving from focus and coachability to market opportunities and communication. Inexperienced and experienced investors differ in their roles as generalists and specialists. Trust, benevolence, involvement, and the deal-making process are the critical factors in shaping the relationship. The study recommends a platform to educate users on attracting and investing financing, as well as to facilitate communication exchange. Furthermore, the platform should take an intermediary role of specialists, backed by novice investors as generalists. The platform maximizes the startup's chances of success. This research contributes to theory and practice by providing an overview and solution to enhance entrepreneur-investor relationship. Lastly, limitations and future research opportunities are described. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Clients: | The Orange Mill, Utrecht, The Netherlands |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 85 business administration, organizational science |
| Programme: | Business Administration MSc (60644) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/98583 |
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