Summary

When you're growing your education business, one big question always comes up—should you seek investment or bootstrap your way to success? In this episode, Josh Chernikoff breaks down the real challenges behind this decision.

He shares lessons from his own journey, the mistakes founders make when chasing investment too soon, and what it really takes to build a business that attracts the right investors (if you even need them). We also get into smart ways to bootstrap, key signs that you’re actually ready for investment, and why a strong lead generation system is a must before you even think about bringing on investors.

If you're debating whether to seek investment or go it alone, this episode will help you figure out the right next step.

Tune In to Hear: 

• The warning signs that you’re pitching too early — and what investors really want to see.
• How to tell if your business needs more capital — or just a better sales strategy.
• Why funding isn’t always the answer — and what might be holding you back instead.
• The hidden costs of taking investment: What no one tells you about giving up equity and control — and how to make the right call.
• Why so many education entrepreneurs chase investment too soon — and what to focus on instead to grow sustainably.
• Why more money won’t fix a broken sales pipeline: The crucial step education founders must take before seeking investors.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Funding vs. Bootstrapping

02:59 - Understanding the Pros and Cons of Investment

10:00 - Identifying the Right Time for Investment

15:09 - Bootstrapping Strategies for Growth

21:59 - Preparing for Investment: Key Benchmarks

26:47 - Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Links

Josh Chernikoff
Josh Chernikoff LinkedIn