All investors look for the same things in a pitch deck or business plan. They don’t put money into other people’s businesses because they have nothing better to do; they do it because they want a return on their investment.

They are in it to make money.

While each has their unique investment preferences, there are certain fundamental factors that all of them rely on to make an investment decision. They are:

1. A unique or novel idea

Investors will always check whether your business idea is groundbreaking or if there is a real need for what you offer.

2. A clear, well-written business plan

A comprehensive business plan, with data to substantiate it, supports the validity of the business opportunity and shows that you know the market.

3. The execution team

You might have a novel idea but if you don’t have a team with the required capabilities and capacity to deliver then it’s no more than an idea.

4. A solid business model

Your business model explains how your business creates and extracts value. It tells investors whether it’s viable or not.

5. Financial performance (previous and projected)

If the business is operational, investors want to see that you are profitable. If it is an idea, they want to see projected financial returns based on data-driven scenarios.

6. An obsession with the problem

An obsession with the problem you are solving is key; it tells an investor that even when times get tough, you are likely to continue with the business, which makes it worthwhile for any investor.

This article originally appeared in Nine Yards magazine. Read more here.