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My First Million

My First Million

The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.

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Identify investment opportunities in companies you already pay as a customer

Entrepreneurs and investors who have business expenses and want to generate returns from their spend

6-24 months to identify and execute

What Success Looks Like

Becoming an equity partner in a business you already use, potentially seeing significant returns as the business grows with your help.

Steps to Execute

1

Audit your P&L line items to identify meaningful recurring expenses

2

Research which expenses go to companies with strong growth potential

3

Identify companies where you could add value beyond just money

4

Reach out to founders expressing genuine interest and usage

5

Negotiate equity participation rather than just affiliate deals

6

Actively contribute to growth through your network and expertise

Checklist

Company has strong unit economics and cash flow
You are a legitimate power user of the product
You can add meaningful value beyond capital
Founder is open to strategic partnerships
Deal structure includes meaningful equity upside

Inputs Needed

  • Access to your business P&L
  • Credible track record or audience
  • Capital to invest
  • Time to contribute meaningfully

Outputs

  • Equity stake in growing business
  • Potential significant returns
  • Deeper product knowledge and influence
  • Strategic business relationships

Example

“Shaan looked at his P&L, saw Shepherd as a significant expense, approached Marshall as a real user, negotiated equity deal, helped triple the business, and saw major returns when Nick acquired it.”