This assessment consists of 25 questions based on the actual process investors go through, and the basic questions they ask, in assessing whether to make investments in projects. The assessment focuses on 5 key dimensions of any project or enterprise that an investor must understand: 1) Business Model, 2) Market, 3) Organization, 4) Financial and 5) Social and Environmental Impact. Project proponents that are serious about pursuing investment must be able to answer these questions. 

As you review the questions, you may find that some are beyond the current expertise of the organization. In these cases, it is suggested that you partner with other agencies or find the right expertise to assist in assessing the investment-readiness of your project. Visit the e-Directory to search for experts that may be able to assist.

In a later step, you will have the opportunity to create an online profile for your project so that investors can find you. By creating an account, you can include the results of your assessments in your profile and provide more information to potential investors. It will also allow you to re-access your assessment results.

A) Legal Entity

What legal entity is your organization registered as?

B) Business Model Viability

Have the end users been clearly identified for your product/service?
Would the end users have the ability/willingness to pay for your organization’s product/service?
Can you estimate the potential size of your customer audience/segment?
Can you estimate the growth rate of your industry over the next 3 years?
Do you know the expected trends in your project’s industry over the next 3 years?

C) Market Competition

How many competitors are there in the market for your product(s)/service(s)?
Do the competitors pose a significant threat to your enterprise?
Are there significant capital/funding requirements in starting your enterprise?
Are there significant fixed operating costs for your enterprise?

D) Organization and Human Resources

Is the legal form of your organization conducive for equity or debt investment?
Does your organization have a written business plan?
How many years of relevant experience does the management team have?

Are the following staff experienced/skilled?

a. Production Management/Staff
b. Procurement Management/Staff
c. Sales Management/Staff?
d. Admin Management/Staff

E) Financial Sustainability

How many years has your organization been operating?
Is your organization net profit positive?
Does your organization have a forecast for its profit & loss for the next three to five years?
Does your organization show a net profit within the next three to five years?
Does your organization have a forecast for the balance sheet?
Does your organization have a cash flow forecast for the next three to five years?
Are your operating cash flows expected to be positive within the next three to five years?
Does your organization have assets that could be used as collateral/security for debt financing (i.e., a loan)?

F) Social & Environmental Impact

Does your organization have an impact on the livelihoods of a specific group of beneficiaries?
Does your project/enterprise focus on restoration, protection or maintenance of coastal or marine ecosystems?