A Washington investment bank can help expand your company by raising substantial amounts of money. Washington investment banks accomplish this by issuing and selling securities in one of two ways. The first way is through the capital markets, by selling your company's stock in an initial public offering (IPO) or secondary offering. The second way is through private placements, such as the purchase or sale of corporate securities.

Investment banking firms in Washington state also provide advisory services on a wide range of transactions that include mergers and acquisitions, underwriting and providing financial security research to investors and corporate customers. Because they do so much, it's vital that you take your time when choosing from Washington investment bankers. Your company’s financial success could hang in the balance.

Here are a few keys to selecting investment banking in Washington that will serve you well:

1. Learn some investment banking language before you interview with prospective investment banks in Washington. Doing so will help save time and gather information.

2. Choose investment banking in Washington that can serve your company now, and into the future.

3. The Washington investment bankers you choose from should feel confident in their ability to raise money through an IPO.

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

Choose from investment banking firms in Washington that understand your company's needs

If you want to achieve financial success, you and your Washington investment banker must come together as partners. You need to trust your adviser's proposals, but at the same time you shouldn't be afraid to ask questions. Trust and communication are the foundation of your affiliation.

I recommend: Alexander Hutton, Inc. and Stonemark Investment Bankers both offer a broad range of investment banking and venture capital services in Washington state.

Look at investment banks in Washington that can grow with you

When you decide on a Washington investment banking firm, be sure it's capable of meeting your present and future ambitions. The last thing you want is to build rapport with an adviser, only to leave once your plans take off. To avoid this aggravation, pick a firm that has the capacity to serve you after you hit it big.

I recommend: Baldwin M&A Partners, LLC is Seattle's oldest private investment banking firm with services including seller representation, recapitalization and management buyouts. Try Wells Fargo if you're looking for a national investment banking firm.

Find investment banks in Washington that specialize in innovative companies

Washington state is a hotbed of technology innovation and some Washington investment bankers are experienced in working with cutting edge companies.

I recommend: Delafield Hambrecht in Seattle handles investment banking for emerging growth markets in tech, healthcare and consumer products and was started by a veteran of one of the pioneers in financing for internet companies. Two other boutique investment bankers in Seattle are Evolution Capital Advisors and Cascadia Capital.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Partner with a Washington investment banker who has extensive knowledge of the industry. This insider expertise can give you the edge over your competitors.