When it comes to raising capital, creativity knows no bounds. Some companies go the traditional route with investors and bank loans, while others, well, they take a walk on the wild side.
Here’s a lighthearted look at ten of the most ridiculous ways companies have tried to drum up dough. Some are ingenious, others are desperate, and a few are just plain bizarre!
1. Selling Superfluous Swag
Imagine company-branded lava lamps, action figures, or even scented candles. Yes, businesses have tried to capitalize on quirky merchandise that has little to do with their actual product or service. While it might catch some eyes, it often leaves potential investors scratching their heads, says Stefan Matthews.
2. Hosting Outlandish Events
From faux celebrity galas to extravagant launch parties in unlikely places (like the middle of the desert), some companies spend a small fortune trying to generate buzz. The hope is that the buzz turns into investment, though often the only thing they’re left with is a hefty bill and a lot of leftover hors d’oeuvres.
3. Offering Bizarre Bonuses
One startup promised a lifetime supply of their product (which happened to be pickles) if you invested a certain amount. Another offered to name a character in a video game after big-ticket investors. Fun? Maybe. Effective? That’s up for debate.
4. The ‘Fund My Life’ Approach
Believe it or not, some founders have lumped personal expenses into their funding requests. This includes things like luxury car leases, vacations (for ‘team building’, of course), and one founder even included his wedding under ‘marketing expenses.’
5. Crypto Craziness
With the rise of cryptocurrency, some companies have jumped into creating their own tokens or coins as a way to raise funds. While it sounds modern and tech-savvy, without clear utility or value, these often turn into nothing more than digital wishful thinking.
6. Reality TV Tactics
Some desperate execs have turned to reality TV, pitching their businesses to the masses (and to celebrity investors) in hopes of funding. While it can lead to publicity, it can also lead to public mishaps if the pitch flops.
7. Extreme Networking Events
We’re talking about networking events held on yachts, hot air balloons, or even during skydiving trips. The idea is to make a memorable impression, but sometimes, it’s only the fear of heights that gets remembered.
8. Turning to Tarot Cards
Yes, a few daring entrepreneurs have used tarot card readings as a way to entice investors, claiming that the cards forecast unprecedented success for their venture. As you might guess, this method is not typically endorsed by financial advisors.
9. Guilt-Tripping
Some companies have used marketing tactics that guilt people into investing, using slogans like “Don’t you want to be part of something bigger?” or “Imagine missing out on the next big thing.” This often feels more like emotional blackmail than a business proposition.
10. Viral Video Ventures
In the hopes of going viral, companies have created bizarre and sometimes ridiculous marketing videos. Think executives singing and dancing in ways that can never be unseen. It’s a gamble, and while it might earn clicks, it doesn’t always open wallets.
