4 Things I Would Not Do as a 9-Figure Capital Raiser

Experience is a powerful teacher—and when it comes to raising capital, it can be a very expensive one.

I've raised hundreds of millions now, but I still remember the early days: spinning my wheels, chasing the wrong people, and learning things the hard way.

If I were starting over, here are 4 mistakes I’d avoid at all costs—and what I’d do instead.

Mistake #1: Chasing Every Investor

I used to think more conversations = more capital. So I pitched anyone who would listen.

What actually happened?
I wasted time. I got burned. And I closed less.

The real shift came when I stopped trying to impress everyone—and started filtering for the right fit.

What I’d Do Instead:

• Get clear on who your ideal investor is

• Prioritize shared values, not just available capital

• Spend more time nurturing fewer, better-aligned relationships

The truth: Not all money is good money. Raise from people you want on your cap table for the next 10 years—not the next 10 minutes.

Mistake #2: Skipping Due Diligence on Investors

Yes, you read that right—you need to do due diligence on them, too.

Early on, I took investor interest at face value. No background checks, no calls with other founders. I just wanted to get the deal done.

And a few of those “easy” checks?
They turned out to be my biggest headaches.

What I’d Do Instead:

• Ask other founders how the investor behaves post-wire

• Look at their track record—do they support or sabotage?

• Trust but verify. If someone resists transparency, walk.

The truth: You’re not just raising capital. You’re building long-term partnerships. Treat it that way.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Red Flags

There were moments I knew something was off... but I kept going anyway.

I needed the money. I didn’t want to seem difficult.
So I let things slide.

And those red flags? They didn’t go away—they got worse.

What I’d Do Instead:

• Pay attention to how people show up during the process

• Set clear boundaries from day one—don’t just hope they’ll “get it”

• Be willing to walk, even if it stings short-term

The truth: The wrong investor costs you more than money—they cost you energy, time, and momentum.

Mistake #4: Underestimating the ROI of Self-Investment

In the beginning, I thought working harder would solve everything.
So I skipped books, courses, coaching, mentorship. It felt like a distraction.

Looking back, I realize I delayed my growth by years.

What I’d Do Instead:

• Surround myself with people who’ve done what I want to do

• Invest early in mentorship, masterminds, and high-level training

• Prioritize mindset, health, and environment—because those are the real multipliers

The truth: Your income rarely outpaces your identity. Invest in the version of you that can handle 10x the capital you’re managing today.

Follow me on: 

• LinkedIn: @MarcinDrozdz
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The information contained herein is for general guidance on matters of interest only. This information contained herein is not intended to provide you with any advice on financial planning, investment, insurance, legal, accounting, tax or similar matters and should not be relied upon for such purposes. Marcin Drozdz, M1 Real Capital Inc are not financial, legal or tax advisers. You should assess whether you require such advisers and additional information and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice. You understand this to be an expression of opinions and not professional advice. You are solely responsible for any actions you take with the content and hold Marcin Drozdz and M1 Real Capital Inc or any of it's affiliates harmless in any event or claim.