Background. Angel Investments plc (AI) is based in Warsaw, Poland

Angel Investments plc (AI) is based in Warsaw, Poland. It provides finance for start-up or young companies which need capital to develop their businesses. AI is run by a group of extremely rich people of various nationalities who made their fortunes in the computer and financial services industries. They enjoy the excitement of working with start-ups and small companies, and believe that Central and Eastern Europe offers outstanding opportunities for investment. They are willing to take risks and back projects which seem unusual or extraordinary. However they also expect to make money, usually by taking a stake in the business or a share of the profits.

A team of AI investors is currently considering several proposals. After hearing presentations from individuals and companies, AI will decide which projects it will invest in, and how much money it will give to each one. They have £5.5 million to invest in the projects.

Task

You are either:

an AI investor; or

an entrepreneur who needs finance for a new project.

Briefing notes:

AI Investors

Before the meeting

1 Study the proposals that the entrepreneurs have chosen and discuss which appeal to you most. Consider which are the most risky and which have the greatest potential profits.

2 Prepare questions which you wish to ask each person/company

1 Listen to the presentation of each person/company. Ask questions to help you decide which projects to invest in.

2 Discuss the projects. Decide which to invest in, and how much money you will give to each.

Remember: You have a maximum limit of £5.5 million to invest, but can invest less.

Entrepreneurs

Before the meeting

Choose one of the proposals or present your own idea for a product or service.

1 Prepare a presentation of your product/service. Use the Key Points as a guide for structuring the presentation.

2 Your aim will be to persuade AI to give you the money you need. Try to predict what questions they will ask you.

During the meeting

1 Give your presentation and answer the AI team’s questions.

2 While waiting to hear AI’s decision concerning your request for finance, discuss these questions:

a) Was your presentation effective?

b) Do you think you will be successful?

c) How well did you answer their questions?

d) What problems did you have, if any?

Key points for product presentation

The Business

A description of the business -What does it do? Who is it for?

Brief details about the team (age, education, experience, etc.).