Grow Without Investors: A New Path for Startups

Every year millions of startups are born all around the world. The number of these startups varies, but there is a constant figure that stands out, and it refers to the fact that most of these projects never truly consolidate. Some of them perish before their first year of operation, others last a bit longer, but only a very small fraction of them manage to grow exponentially. And those that do grow are those well-known cases such as Amazon, Facebook and Google. So, let’s be honest, what are the probabilities to replicate this kind of success?

Nowadays, raising capital is considered a synonym for success. If you manage to get funding from Angel investors or a venture capital fund, that proves that you “made it.” Now, that may be true in the imaginary world of modern startups, but in reality, raising capital is no guarantee that your startup will become a profitable business, or that it will survive the vicissitudes of time.

This reality sparked within me an honest curiosity, so I decided to analyze it more thoroughly. In my research I discovered that there was not a lot of information regarding how to make a company grow without investors in an organic way. Realizing this and considering my expertise as an entrepreneur and businessman, I decided to write a book about the subject: "Grow Without Investors."

My book is focused on defying the current logic that those who raise capital will be “successful.” It is an invitation to go back to basic business principles that seem to be lost, such as creating value, generating income, taking good care of money, leading with purpose, and building a stable, human, and sustainable business.  

Many entrepreneurs lose sight that the core and heart of every business is and will always be income. Branding and social media are misleading, mostly directing attention to likes or number of followers, losing focus on how without income there is simply no company. It is fundamental to focus on what really generates value, which products or services you offer provide solutions to a problem, and how you can transform such value into a constant flow of income.

On the other hand, money should not be a taboo or a source of fear. There are some people who are afraid of getting into debt or are uninformed about how to get a loan and reinvest. In reality, finances can become a powerful tool to grow when used intelligently. In my book, I explain this with clear examples and accessible language, so that you can consider taking calculated risks, make good negotiations with banks, and get leverage and resources to grow your business while maintaining stability.

Regarding daily operations, there is also the idea that innovation or disruption are the most important factors, but I believe this is not always the case. Sometimes what we need is order, consistency, and good execution. Knowing how to make appropriate decisions, being able to adapt to change quickly in difficult situations, such as the COVID pandemic, and maintaining mental clarity in order to have the capacity to lead make the difference and are decisive in terms of whether companies simply survive or truly prosper.

Also, building a team doesn’t mean finding “perfect” people. It means surrounding yourself with associates who are willing to grow with you. Organizational culture is not something that just happens magically, it is a direct responsibility of the leader. Because of this, it is key to create a working environment where people feel safe, motivated, and part of something bigger. Adopting a growth mindset is essential to promote constant learning, resilience, and persistence.

Leadership is not about imposing something. It’s about inspiring, guiding, and listening. In my book, I go deeper into these topics and present a formula that over time, I have proven to work. It focuses on firm empathy, or “tough love;” it is not only about motivating, but also about avoiding discouragement. With specific examples regarding my experience practicing sports and my entrepreneurial journey, I also describe how maintaining straightforward human leadership can transform teams and lead to great results.

And of course, happiness does matter, not only as a luxury, but as a business strategy. Happy people work better, are more committed, and their energy is projected to clients. Purpose, human connection, and smiling are not superficial, they are the building blocks of a company where people want to be, grow, and are eager to contribute. 

At IOS OFFICES we have grown step by step, with discipline, consistency, and a focus on the details that make a difference. We have always placed our associates in the center of everything we do. Customer service and quality are our best tools for growth, without magical formulas, just with hard constant work, financial responsibility, and the genuine compromise of doing things right.

Today, I feel truly fortunate to see my book materialize and be truthful to my life philosophy: share what you learn, have open conversations, and above all, be there to inspire.

"Grow Without Investors" is not only a business book, it is an invitation to start your business with purpose, patience, and a long-term vision. Because dreaming to be an entrepreneur in Mexico is not only possible, but it is an attainable reality.

With joy and excitement, I invite you to the presentation of my book "Grow Without Investors," Oct. 12 at the “Feria International del Libro” in Monterrey, Mexico. It would be a great pleasure to share this moment with you.