What is a potential risk of a small business accepting venture capital?

A key risk of a small business accepting venture capital is the potential loss of control due to shared ownership. When a business takes on venture capital financing, the investors typically receive equity in the company. This means that the original owners will have to give up a portion of their ownership and, in many cases, a degree of decision-making power. Investors often seek to influence the strategic direction of the business, which might lead to conflicts between their goals and the original vision of the business owners. This shift in control can result in challenges regarding governance, company culture, and operational direction. Consequently, the entrepreneur may find themselves navigating a landscape where their autonomy is reduced, which can be a significant concern for those who value maintaining control over their business operations and decisions.