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Our Philosophy

Fundamental Business Concepts Essential for Success

Our Philosophy

Building with intention. Growing with purpose.

Over the years, Trisha and I have experienced both remarkable successes and significant failures in our business endeavors. These experiences have honed our understanding of fundamental business concepts essential for success. Consequently, we’ve compiled a transparent list of these concepts before investing in any potential company.

We acknowledge that there are books written that deviate from our core beliefs, and we completely understand if anyone disagrees and prefers an investor who aligns more closely with their concepts. However, these beliefs are fundamental to us, and we will not invest in any company that lacks our shared core concepts. Even if we choose not to invest, we will remain available to provide advice and support.


1.

Treat employees and team members as family.

They are the ones who perform the fundamental tasks and shape the company’s future. By treating them as part of your family rather than disposable pieces in a puzzle, you can earn their utmost respect and dedication. Empower them, not micromanage them, but also provide support. Show genuine interest in their lives, knowing their families, personal circumstances, and priorities. Offer fair wages and comprehensive benefits. While it’s impossible to please everyone, you can ensure that over 90% of your employees are satisfied.

2.

Treat investors’ money as if it were your own.

Far too often, companies receive investment and end up squandering it as if it were free money. Someone had to work hard for that money, and investors are investing because they believe in your vision. Every decision you make regarding spending should keep in mind the hard work and belief they have in you. Don’t take this for granted.

3.

Avoid a constant cycle of raising money.

Secure the necessary funds, but there’s something fundamentally wrong if you’re constantly seeking funding. This not only hinders your company’s growth but also erodes the trust of your initial investors.

4.

Treating customers as partners is crucial for building great relationships and achieving profitability.

It’s far easier to establish a strong bond than to attempt to repair an existing damaged one.

5.

Companies’ primary objective should be to generate profit.

Therefore, a clear path to profitability should be the foundation of every decision. Growth without profitability makes every decision more challenging and eventually leads to burnout. Being profitable also allows you to take risks and be innovative without risking the overall future of the company.

6.

When starting a company the first 5 years, do not expect a vacation with you being completely out of pocket or being completely off the grid or unavailable.

While it is important to take time to recharge, it is more important that your company is cared for and has the leader readily available. Leaving your team without a leader or taking your foot off the gas will lead to steps back that will hurt the future of the company. Trisha and I did not get a full day off till year 10. But this was after getting people in place we trusted and had processes in place that helped the company grow in our absence.

7.

Zero inbox.

This is sometimes a controversial topic. But if someone is reaching out and needs something it is your responsibility to get back to them. I average 800 emails a day and do not go to bed till I have zero. This is an expectation I have for you also. Maintaining this is easier than trying to get there.

8.

Communication is paramount.

Keep your team, customers, and investors well-informed about the progress, financials, and future plans. Investors are particularly sensitive to lack of communication, so it’s crucial to provide regular updates. At a minimum, quarterly detailed updates covering progress, financials, and future prospects are essential. Weekly communication with your team is equally important. If they feel uninformed, they won’t be able to lead themselves effectively.

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Whether you're a founder seeking a strategic partner for growth, a family looking for trusted guidance, or a business exploring long-term partnership opportunities, we invite you to learn more about how MTBFO builds meaningful relationships designed to create lasting value for generations.

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