HBD Venture Capital
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 
The following frequently asked questions will be an aid to businesses and entrepreneurs to have a better understanding about what venture capital (VC) and HBD Venture Capital is all about.

1. What is venture capital?
Venture Capital is capital provided by investors for the purpose of growing, developing or launching a business's products or services and is typically in the form of the investor subscribing for new shares at premium in a business as opposed to debt financing.

2. How will HBD help my business to grow?
HBD offers not only a financial boost for early stage businesses, but also mentorship, strategic guidance and governance. HBD has worked with many early stage businesses across a range of industries and this experience proves invaluable to a business and helps the business grow. at a sustainable rate.

3. What are the criteria for funding through HBD Venture Capital?

4. If I have a start-up idea and would like to find an investor to fund this who should I contact?

5. Who can I contact with regards to patenting an idea?
There are many patents attorneys that are available. It's important to match your idea with the expertise of the patent attorney and of course your personalities too! An option is Adams & Adams. www.adamsadams.com

6. How much money will be offered to my business?
We typically invest between R10 million and R25 million in equity funding in each investment.

7. Does the full investment amount get invested upfront?
It depends on the expansion plan of the business, but usually HBD staggers its investment over two or three investment tranches based on pre-determined milestones.

8. How does HBD determine its equity stake in my company?
During the due diligence, HBD determines the fair value of the company based on various factors linked to its future potential. This value is then discussed and negotiated with the current shareholders on an arms length basis to determine the ultimate subscription price.

9. What are the steps to apply for funding through HBD?
HBD has a structured approach for funding applications that guides a potential transaction through different phases: Initial Screening, Assessment, Term Sheet, Due Diligence and Deal Execution.

10. What documents do I need to hand in to apply for funding?

11. Who do I submit my application to?
Please call Karen Lamb on +27 21 970 1000 or email your proposal direct to proposals@hbd.com

12. How long will it be before I receive a response to my initial application?
You will receive a response outlining the next steps within two weeks of providing HBD with a proposal summary.

13. What is the process after I request funding?
All proposals undergo a screening process. This process is described here.

14. What does a due diligence by HBD entail?
A due diligence basically entails background checks and research on a prospective investment. Specific areas covered in HBD's due diligence process include:
15. If my application is not accepted by HBD, what other avenues can I explore in terms of finding funding?
Depending on your fit to their mandate, the following options are available: In addition, you can search these organizations for further resources:
16. Why would I want to give up a stake to HBD?
The benefits to you will depend on what your circumstances are. Some of the possible benefits would be:
17. What is my repayment schedule?
Venture Capital funding is generally equity based, and accordingly has no fixed repayment schedule. If the company has excess cash on the balance sheet that cannot be re-invested in the business, dividends might be declared. The parties pre-determine the exit strategy of the venture capitalist.

18. What is HBD's typical exit strategy?
HBD's exit strategy depends on the nature of each transaction. Potential exit strategies include: Initial Private Offering and listing on a stock exchange, trade sale, management buy-back and sale to another venture capital fund.

19. Does HBD co-invest or syndicate with other Venture Capital funds?
HBD prefers to own a significant minority stake as lead institutional investor, but where the dynamics of the transaction dictates syndication it will be considered.

20. How involved is HBD in my company post-investment?
HBD invests in passionate entrepreneurs and strong management teams that can successfully manage their own business. HBD does not usually get involved operationally, but rather adds strategic value through active board participation. Monthly management accounts are required by HBD to track performance and regular interaction with management is encouraged to gain valuable insights in the business.

21. Why is corporate governance so important in a company?
Two factors come to mind, firstly the numerous new pieces of legislation that make certain aspects thereof compulsory. Secondly, the positive effects that it has on the actual management of the company. And yes the popular interpretation of corporate governance being "compliance only" is incorrect. There is another equally important aspect thereto which aims at ensuring the proper and effective management of companies.

For instance, the King III Report together with the new Companies Act, stress the concept of Risk Management. This concept is further expanded and includes the obligation on Directors to communicate to all stakeholders, including employees, shareholders and the public. These items will all guide Directors in the right direction with respect to the general management of their companies, which will in turn have a positive effect on both the Company's results as well as its continued sustainability.
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