Going Global: Top 3 Tips for Attracting Foreign Investment

Expanding your startup beyond Canada’s borders is an exciting milestone, as well as a strategic one. Accessing foreign investment can accelerate growth, open doors to new markets, and form long-term, strategic partnerships. But raising international funds isn’t as simple as pitching abroad; it requires preparation, focus, and the right relationships.

“Given the changing environment in the global trading ecosystem, considering investment partners from outside North America is more important than ever,” says Kevin Elop, Finance Mentor at the Accelerator Centre.

We know that global fundraising can feel daunting for early-stage founders. That’s why we sat down with Kevin to get his top three tips for founders ready to attract international investors.

Be Ready

Before you start reaching out to foreign investors, make sure you can clearly demonstrate traction. Investors want proof that your product works, your market exists, and your business model is starting to take shape.

Kevin emphasizes that readiness means more than enthusiasm — it’s about proof. You need to show:

• Revenue: Even early signs of revenue can signal that your product has real market demand.

• Product: Your offering should be past the prototype stage and ready to scale.

• Market Fit: Demonstrate customer validation through sales, pilots, or user feedback that proves you’re solving a real problem.

Foreign investors have countless opportunities worldwide. Standing out starts with showing that your company has already achieved meaningful momentum at home.

2. Make Time

International fundraising takes time, often more than founders expect. Between investor research, outreach, meetings, and follow-ups, securing foreign investment can feel like a second startup in itself.

Kevin reminds founders that raising capital is a full-time commitment. You need to dedicate focused time and resources to do it right. That may mean temporarily shifting responsibilities or delegating operations so you can give fundraising your full attention.

Patience and persistence are essential, especially when dealing with cross-border logistics, due diligence, and time zones. Set realistic timelines and prepare for a long runway. The investment process takes time, but thoughtful preparation and follow-through will set you apart.

3. Target the Right Investors

Not all investors are the right fit for your startup. Targeting investors who match your stage, industry, and funding needs is crucial for success.

Understand what each investor typically invests in, from deal size to sector focus to geographic preferences. Approaching an investor that normally invests in Series B rounds when you’re pre-seed is a quick way to waste both your time and theirs.

Instead, focus your efforts on investors who are known for supporting early-stage Canadian or North American startups, and who bring relevant expertise or networks in your target market. The more alignment you can demonstrate, the greater your chances of building meaningful investor relationships.

Ready to Go Global?

Securing foreign investment is about more than funding; it’s about building partnerships that can propel your business into new markets. By focusing on readiness, time commitment, and targeting the right investors, early-stage founders can position themselves for success on the global stage.

At the Accelerator Centre, we help founders develop the strategy, structure, and support they need to grow internationally. With hands-on mentorship from experts like Kevin we’ll help you strengthen your business, refine your pitch, and connect with investors who share your vision.

Apply to AC:Incubate and start building an investor-ready company that’s prepared to go global.