Need advice: how do I take a startup idea from concept to investors?
Hi everyone,
I’m currently trying to understand how to properly enter the startup ecosystem, and I’m looking for some guidance from people who have experience building or pitching ideas.
I come from an Electrical & Communication background and recently completed my Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering in Canada. I’ve been observing certain consumer lifestyle trends in Canada and India, and I’ve started developing an idea for a pet-focused retail and lifestyle store that could potentially scale into a franchise model in the long term in India.
At this stage, I don’t have a formal business background, and I’m still learning how to structure, validate, and pitch ideas properly. I’m trying to understand:
- Where should someone at an early stage go to pitch or validate an idea?
- How do early founders usually connect with investors or mentors?
- What are the right platforms or startup communities for someone in my situation?
- What is the correct way to refine an idea before approaching investors?
I would really appreciate any guidance, direction, or resources from people who have been through this process before.
Thank you in advance.