What to Include in a Data Room for Investors
A virtual data room is a key aspect of fundraising for a variety of startups. It allows companies to provide important documents for due diligence with investors without having to email an entire set of confidential documents. It’s crucial for startups to be aware of what they should include in their investor data rooms, so that they don’t waste precious time by including irrelevant details.
Investors will likely expect to see a pitch deck, however, they will also need to have access to the most recent financial data (historical and projections). They will want to study your business model thoroughly and will need to review cash flow statements and investment case studies and discounted cash flow analysis models. They will also want to review your valuation calculations and monetization strategy.
They will also want to see any IP assets that relate to your business, like trademarks, patents and other IP assets. They will also request to examine any letters of recommendation from employees or customers. They will also want to see any legal agreements that you have with your existing customers or investors.
Once they have viewed this information, you’ll have identify who has accessed these documents. This is a vital characteristic of all investor data rooms because it allows you to take action in the event that there are any issues with the use or disclosure by an individual of information about your company. A good investment banking VDR will provide you with one overview of the activities and offer the option of limiting or revoke access to specific documents if necessary.