Bloom VC (Venture Catalyst) Profile

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Name of Company: Bloom VC (Venture Catalyst)
Year Established: 2011
Website: www.bloomvc.com
Bloom Social: Twitter: @bloomvc / Facebook: BloomVC

If you could sum up Bloom in one sentence what would you say?

Be a part of the crowdfunding revolution … we are supporting startups, students, social enterprises and community projects. Simply tell us what you want to do, how much money you need to do it, and ask the crowd to help you make your idea a reality.

What were the biggest challenges you faced in launching Bloom and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge has been lack of awareness about crowdfunding in Scotland and the UK despite the fact it’s already widely accepted in America. We are changing that here, raising awareness through speaking at events and exhibitions, through positive media coverage, being very active on social media, and reaching out to the crowd to help us spread the word. The education process has taken a while, and we’ve not finished yet, but we are starting to be recognised as a viable, alternative source of finance to startups, students, businesses, community projects and social enterprises.

What would be your three top tips for a small business trying to secure funding on Bloom?

1. Be passionate about your idea and your campaign – no one else will be passionate and support you if you’re not –you need to work your connections, starting with family and friends and then reaching out to the crowd.

2. Have a great video – it doesn’t have to be expensive or professionally done, but an engaging video about why your project matters and how the crowd can be part of your journey is essential.

3. Get creative with your rewards – they need to be compelling, “must-have” rewards that people will not only want to have for themselves but will also tell others about.

What does the future hold for Bloom?

The future is so exciting, Bloom will move from being the new kid on the block to being the first place people turn when they need money for a project.

We have to say a massive thank you to Michelle Rodger (@tartancat) for providing the profile. We hope to bring you more from Bloom very soon!