WORKBOOK FOR BUSINESS MODELS SCREENING AT PRE-SEEDING STARTUP STAGE by Julian Goh

In Malaysia, I noticed that there is a lack of proper consultancy services to provide supports for entrepreneurs and screen their business models especially those come from small capital background.

Although there are some similar services available at the government agencies or financial institutions that they are ready to help the entrepreneurs; but in fact, these are not adaptable for micro-businesses or small capital startups environment. The objective that they provide such services to them is because of funding (loans) that render for their clients. As a result, the business model is not the original idea which is desired by the entrepreneur himself, in fact, someone has contributed that on behalf for the entrepreneur in order to secure the funds from these institutions.

In fact, there are many people capable to demonstrate great ideas and also they got the guts to start their businesses without fearing of the likely consequences if the business goes unsuccessful.

In view of this opportunity gap, I am keen to support this group of intrepid and energetic entrepreneurs to find a way of lowering down their exposure to risks that might cause of unnecessary failures. High failures rate in entrepreneurial ventures is a reality that could not be denied in the world of business, regardless of their locations and the background of the people. The cost of failure could be extremely high to most people.

In conclusion, I invite you to answer these questions honestly. “Do you really believe that your idea is something novel?” “Are you really serious about to convert your ideas into an innovation?” “Are you really serious to bring your innovation to market?” If your answers were assuredly not for the gently alone, then you may skip this workbook and follow your guts, start your business now! If your answers were ambiguous, I strongly encouraged you to engage someone whom you can trust and then proceed with this workbook. After you have done with the workbook soon, you may compare the answers with your initial thought, if there is anything that has changed your mind already, you may decide if you wish to proceed with your business endeavor or go back to work. Good luck with your choice!