How can business owners add value to their business when preparing for investment or planning an exit? David Atkinson from Panoramic Growth Equity shares his expertise.

David and his team invest £2–8 million in profitable UK SMEs, and in this video, he shares what really matters to investors beyond the financials.

If you’re thinking about funding or exit, this conversation is a must-watch.

Here are four key takeaways:

1 Build a Defensible Business Model

Investors are drawn to businesses with a strong niche and a track record of solving specific customer problems well. It’s not just about revenue, it’s about resilience and uniqueness.

2. Create a Self-Sufficient Team

A business that’s too dependent on its founder can be risky. Investors look for capable leadership teams who can run day-to-day operations and continue to grow the business without relying solely on the owner.

3 Use Marketing to Drive Consistent Sales

A well-executed marketing strategy creates a reliable pipeline of leads and new business, something investors value highly. It shows the business can attract and convert new customers without being dependent on the founder’s network or contacts. This builds confidence and makes the business more scalable and investable.

If you’re preparing for growth or planning an exit, this will give you some practical, investor-backed insights into how to position your business for long-term value.