** The best way to raise money is to sell something.

** Debt is cheaper than equity.

** It's become common to have a cycle of cap raises.

** They never look at organic revenue and only focus on the raise.

** I want to explain the concept that debt is cheaper than equity.

** Debt is the first thing that has to be paid back.

** Equity stake holders are bottom rung as bond or debt holders are paid first.

** Once you are in revenue debt becomes an option.

** Let me paint a picture of debt vs. equity.

** You are wrong if you look at the equity side as just getting money.

** What debt doesn't give you are experts helping build your business.

** For most companies, it is a mix of debt and equity.

** If you are pre-revenue and have to do multiple raises, each has a different valuation.

** You have more options if you can get to an mvp and pre-sell products.

** This showcases the conversation we have with some of our members.

** Don't take on personal debt, keep it in the corporation.

** Some people feel equity is less risky but that is not my view.

** Sometimes you take out more than you need with an equity play.

** Some people's whole business model is to raise money.

** Investors should bring more to the table than just money.

** A lot of people don't vet investors.

** Is it truly risk capital?

** The investor base is a key stakeholder, and they should be relied on.

** They know they need funding but don't specifically know what to do with it.

** It's all about having the right conversations.

** If the investors aren't asking hard questions, they are not really interested.

** T's dinner with a potential investor.

** It should be an uncomfortable conversation. Money can wreck relationships.

** The chasm between design and revenue is huge.

** You must prove to investors that you are an expert about your business.

** There is a cost in time and energy in going after grants or dealing with investors.