51 Business Discussion with Antoinette
[Can we meet?]
Michael read the message, humming aloud as he pondered. Why would Catherine ask about him all of a sudden? They have not been in contact for weeks. Nevertheless, he replied.
He tapped out a response.
[I don't think I will be able to meet you. I have a busy schedule this week, let's arrange it in January and discuss what you want as I tutor you.]
The reply was almost immediate.
[It's important. We should meet sooner.]
Michael raised an eyebrow. [Why the urgency? You can transfer my salary online, to my Gcash. It's simpler and less hassle.]
But Catherine wouldn't relent. [No, it has to be in person. Please, Michael.]
Michael's patience waned. [Catherine, you know my schedule is packed. What's this really about?]
There was a pause, a gap longer than any before, and then the truth spilled out from Catherine's next message.
[My mother wants to meet with you. She wants to talk about your business.]
Michael froze, his thoughts racing. Antoinette Estolas, wanting to discuss his business? It must be because of the recognition he received from the media, and her also finding out that his solar panel was not fake, but legitimate. Well, if it's business, then he could probably entertain her mother, after all, business is business. The possibility of securing investment or partnership from someone of Antoinette's caliber was too significant to pass up, even with his packed schedule.
As he was pondering, another message popped up. [She's interested in your invention. After watching the evaluation and seeing the potential, she believes there might be a chance for collaboration or investment.]
Michael took a moment to consider the implications. Antoinette Estolas's involvement could accelerate his solar panel introduction into the country. He must admit, that Antoinette is a shrewd businesswoman with a lot of connections to the Philippines. If he wanted to grow domestically, then possibly partnering with Antoinette is a wise choice.
[Okay, let's arrange a meeting. When is she available?] Michael finally conceded.
[She's available tomorrow, at eight o'clock in the morning. It will be held in her office. I'll send you the address.] Michael waited for Catherine to send her mother's office address. Seconds later, Catherine sent an attachment with her mother's office address and a note: [Please be on time. She's making a special exception to meet you given her schedule.]
Michael stared at the address, recognizing the prestigious area where Antoinette's office was located. As expected, it's in Bonifacio Global City.
[Understood. I'll be there. Thank you, Catherine, for facilitating this,] Michael typed back.
As he set his phone aside, Michael's mind shifted to preparation mode. Meeting Antoinette Estolas wasn't just about showcasing his solar panel technology; it was about proving the viability of his business model, the potential market impact, and most importantly, demonstrating how an investment in his venture could yield significant returns.
He spent the rest of the day refining his presentation, reviewing his business plan, and gathering all the necessary data and projections that would make his case compelling. Michael knew he had to make a strong impression, not just as an inventor but as a savvy entrepreneur ready to take on and dominate the renewable energy market.
The next morning, Michael arrived at Antoinette's office building, his portfolio in hand, and a clear vision in his mind. He was greeted at the reception and escorted to a sleek, modern conference room where Antoinette Estolas awaited. As soon as she stepped inside the conference room, she saw a gorgeous woman with a mature look on her face. She looked a bit like Catherine. Speaking of Catherine, she was present inside, waving a hand at him.
"Good morning, Mrs. Estolas, Ms. Estolas," Michael greeted warmly.
"Good morning, Mr. Reyes. I see that you have prepared for this meeting, seeing that you have a portfolio in your hand." "Well, your daughter Mrs. Estolas informed me that this is going to be a business meeting, so it's only natural that I come prepared," Michael replied with confidence. Antoinette puckered up her lips, amused by Michael's confidence. "Very well, please take a seat." She gestured at the vacant seat opposite hers. Michael nodded and took his seat. He set the portfolio on the table and steepled his fingers. "Now, Michael, I'm aware that my daughter already saw your business plan, but I don't. So why don't you give me the specifics so I can judge it and see if it's worthy of an investment? Though it already is, as a holding company, I need to see if it's solid and sustainable for the long term," Antoinette began, her tone serious but open.
He opened his portfolio, extracting the executive summary of his business plan and the technical specifications of The LX-Quantum Sol Panel.
"As you know, the core of my invention is its unprecedented 60% efficiency rate, a significant leap from the current industry standard," Michael started, maintaining eye contact with Antoinette to gauge her reaction. "This isn't just about introducing a new product; it's about setting a new standard in the renewable energy market."
He proceeded to lay out his market analysis, highlighting the growing demand for renewable energy solutions both domestically and internationally. Michael detailed his target market segments, including residential, commercial, and industrial clients, and outlined his strategies for market penetration and expansion.
Antoinette listened intently, occasionally nodding or jotting down notes. Catherine, sitting quietly at the side, watched the exchange with keen interest.
Michael then discussed his plan for scaling production, including potential partnerships with manufacturing firms and the strategic use of both domestic and international supply chains to optimize costs and efficiency.
"Furthermore, I'm in the final stages of securing the patent for the technology, which will protect our competitive advantage and open up potential licensing opportunities in the future," Michael added, addressing one of the critical aspects of ensuring the venture's longevity and profitability.
Antoinette leaned back, her expression contemplative. "And what about your financial projections? Have you calculated the initial investment needed, the break-even point, and projected returns?"
Michael presented a series of charts and graphs, summarizing his financial projections. "Based on conservative estimates, we project to break even within the first three years, with a significant uptick in profitability as we expand our market reach and production capacity."
The room fell silent as Antoinette reviewed the documents Michael had laid out. After a moment, she looked up, her gaze meeting Michael's.
"Your plan is indeed comprehensive and well thought out. It's clear you're not just an inventor but also a visionary entrepreneur," Antoinette finally said, a hint of respect in her voice. "I'm impressed, Mr. Reyes. I believe there's potential for a fruitful partnership here. But I must say, while watching you on national television, Ms. Bridget von Reimann seemed interested in investing in your company. Have you already made contact with her?" "Yes, I'm willing to sell her 10 percent of the company shares. We're currently in the process of valuing the company to determine a fair price for that stake," Michael explained, aware that mentioning Bridget might affect Antoinette's interest but choosing transparency.
Antoinette nodded thoughtfully, not showing any sign of deterrence or surprise at the mention of Bridget. "I see. Bridget, is one of the people you'd want to partner with if you want to expand internationally, especially in Europe. But why only ten percent? And how come she agreed with that?" "That's because I'll be able to work confidently while controlling the direction of the company. And as for Bridget, she sees the potential in the technology and respects my vision for its future," Michael continued.
Antoinette nodded again, this time with a smile. "It's clear you've thought this through. Your dedication to maintaining control while still being open to strategic partnerships is exactly the kind of balance that can lead to success in this industry. As for my potential investment, I'm interested in exploring how we can support your growth, not just with capital but also with strategic guidance and access to our network."
Michael felt a sense of accomplishment. This was the kind of conversation he had hoped for—discussing not just the financial aspects but also the strategic support crucial for his venture's growth.
"Thank you, Mrs. Estolas. I appreciate your understanding and the potential you see in my work. I believe that together, we can achieve significant advancements in the renewable energy sector," Michael responded.
Antoinette stood up, signaling the end of their meeting. "Let's proceed with the next steps. I'll have my team work with you on the details of the potential investment and partnership. Expect a call from us soon."
"No worries."
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