Texas investment banks can make valuable partners if you want to build substantial capital in your business. Texas investment banks do this by issuing and selling securities in one of 2 ways. First, they can help package and sell your company's stock in an initial public offering (IPO) or secondary offering. Secondly, they can assist you with private placements, such as the purchase or sale of corporate securities.

Investment banks in Texas also provide advisory services on a wide range of transactions. It's important to take your time when choosing from investment bankers in Texas, as your choice could make or break your business. When selecting Texas investment banks, here are a few things you should remember:

1. If you learn some investment banking lingo, you'll better understand what an investment banker proposes for your business.

2. When you choose investment banking in Texas, pick a firm that can serve you now and into the future.

3. The investment banker you meet must be confident in his skills, and confident he can help grow your company.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Pick a Texas investment bank adviser that you can talk to, and vice versa

You should not be intimidated by your Texas Investment bank. Granted, they are the experts. However, you know what you want out of your business, and you need to count on an adviser that will follow your lead. You have to trust the investment bankers with your company, but in return you should be able to communicate your desires to an understanding ear.

I recommend: Make a list of all the questions you would like to ask. Focus offers some ideas for questions. To start your search, look at Bulkley Capital LP, an investment firm in Texas that specializes in private placements, management buyouts, recapitalizations, growth financing, industry consolidations and venture capital investing.

Choose from Texas investment bankers capable of growing with your business

As you look into investment banking in Texas, choose from firms that can accommodate your needs now and into the future. Your company will grow. You want your investment company to be a partner that grows with you.

I recommend: First Southwest Company and CV Lemmon & Co are Texas investment banking firms that specialize in financial advisor services. Both firms cater to businesses of many sizes.

Work with Texas investment bankers that also offer online business banking

It makes sense to partner with an investment banker that can also handle your online business banking needs.

I recommend: Bank of America and Wachovia both offer online investment bank services in Texas. Check out their online resources and tools.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Although there's no guarantee for success, it's always a good idea to research the track record of the investment banks in Texas you interview. Don't be afraid to ask about a company's achievements during the initial interview.