A data room is a secure location to store confidential documents of a sensitive or confidential nature that require due diligence during M&A transactions. The past physical rooms were utilized for this purpose, however with the advancement of technology, virtual data rooms have become more popular and offer the same level of security as traditional methods.

Accessing a thorough investor data room can help founders accelerate the process of negotiating a deal since investors can examine the documents in a matter of hours instead of weeks or months. But deciding what to include in an investor data room can be difficult for entrepreneurs who are new. Fortunately, there are basic guidelines that can be used as an excellent point of reference.

Investors are looking for key data points that can provide them with a greater understanding of your business. This could include your financials, market research as well as a clear presentation on your business plan. Keep in mind that how much information you give an investor is contingent on the stage of your business. An early-stage startup will need to present fewer financials compared to a Series A-level company.

It is essential to avoid find more sharing unorthodox or sloppy analyses, as this can make it difficult for investors to understand the data. It’s also not recommended to share non-standard charts or graphs, in the event that they add nuance or depth to your presentation. This can be achieved by focusing on the key metrics that are easily understood for investors (e.g., highlighting the number of cohorts that are engaged or retained).