Stay True to Your Vision: Trust and Responsibility of Entrepreneurs

As entrepreneurs in today’s landscape, fundraising platforms and capital markets present unprecedented opportunities for businesses to grow and expand. However, does securing investors’ money and gaining media exposure truly signify success?

Under the temptation of capital, many founders who receive funds may unwittingly fall into the illusion of ‘I’ve made it,’ causing them to stray from their original vision and pursue unnecessary expansion and exposure. The core value of entrepreneurship lies in creating a profitable business model driven by a strong vision and a loyal customer base.

The Necessity of Profit

Ultimately, a business must generate profits. Regardless of the appeal of big data and grand visions, if customers are not willing to pay, entrepreneurs are merely indulging in self-deception. Capital alone is insufficient; businesses that rely solely on capital are inherently vulnerable.

Prioritizing Vision Over Capital

The recent surge in capital market activity has caused many entrepreneurs to prioritize funding over their initial vision once they secure investments. Instead of blindly chasing portfolio size, they should focus on building sustainable business models. Earning investors’ trust is no small feat in today’s market.

The Trust Between Investors and Entrepreneurs

For most investors, providing funds is more than a financial transaction—it is an act of trust and recognition. Many investors deeply respect entrepreneurs, viewing them as equals or even placing them on a higher pedestal. Thus, money becomes more than just a check; it symbolizes trust and endorsement.

The Consequences of Misusing Funds

Unfortunately, some entrepreneurs, driven by short-term gains or misjudgments, may misuse funds allocated for their ventures. This misuse not only jeopardizes the trust of investors but also sparks feelings of anger and disappointment, creating ripple effects across the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Moreover, such instances unfairly burden other dedicated entrepreneurs with heavier expectations and pressure as they strive to uphold integrity and accountability in their own endeavors.

Challenges for Early-Stage Founders

Early-stage founders face immense challenges. Often, they cannot fully disclose their struggles, such as having only three months of payroll left, while still projecting optimism. Sharing such truths with investors is difficult, as not all investors are prepared to handle the reality.

Preserving the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

When investors encounter entrepreneurs who misuse funds, it is crucial that the trust between investors and the entrepreneurial community remains unbroken. Entrepreneurs must remain true to their original vision and honor the trust investors place in them. Deviating from this vision equates to neglecting their responsibility to investors.

Conclusion: The Value of Trust

Trust is a precious asset and a mutual responsibility between investor and entrepreneur. Only through collective efforts and mutual understanding can we create a more harmonious and prosperous entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

If you are interested in upskilling yourself, corporate coaching, group career coaching, or one-on-one career coaching, contact our Talent Development Team.