✅ Kicked off the Venture Forward programme yesterday in Birmingham with Foundervine and it was phenomenal, representing Designer Kids Club.

Hearing directly from founders who’ve actually raised, scaled and negotiated on their terms was powerful. I won’t share all the golden nuggets, but here are a few that landed:

1️⃣ Investors need to be the right fit.

Just like they do due diligence on us, we need to do the same. You’re essentially in a 7+ year partnership, trust and alignment are non-negotiable.

2️⃣ A big team doesn’t mean big value.

As you grow, sometimes you have to strip back to the core. A lean, high-value team will outperform busy headcount any day.

3️⃣ You can set the investment terms.

Minimum equity, zero voting rights, confidentiality protected, investment doesn’t have to equal control. Set expectations from day one.

4️⃣ EU funding is still accessible for UK founders.

If you’re eligible apply. You’ve got nothing to lose.

Grateful to be in spaces where founders speak from experience, not ego.

Wofa Ishmael Ofori Aboagye Jamal Hadjkura Barakat Adenike Sheriff Melissa Snover Dare Odumade Olcay Yılmaz DAMAR

Excited for what’s ahead. Let the fundraising prep begin! 💼✨