Stages of Development

The Stages of Development Classifications we use at Inter-Ocean Venture Capital Limited when evaluating a business plan are as follows:

Seed/Start-Up Stage

The initial stage – We defined such stage as a concept or product under development which is probably not fully operational.  This refers to firms usually in existence for less than 18 months.

Early Stage

The company has a product or service in testing or pilot production.  In some cases, the product may be commercially available which may or may not be generating revenues. This refers to firms usually in business for  less than three years.

Expansion Stage

Product or service is in production and commercially available.  The company demonstrates significant revenue growth, but may or may not be showing a profit. This refers to firms usually in business for more than three years.

Later Stage

Product or service is widely available. Company is generating on-going revenue; probably positive cash flow which is more likely to be, but not necessarily profitable. This may include spin-offs of operating divisions of existing private companies and established private companies.