Startups often start pursuing funding before they receive their patent. Provisional patent applications are low-cost to file and help give you time to raise capital before manufacturing. Provisional patents often help startups raise more capital than they would without one, so it's often worth applying for.
To help raise capital for your idea, take the following steps:
Research the market, exhaustively. If you cannot prove that a market exists for your product, you'll have a hard time acquiring funding. Your enthusiasm will only get you so far.
Review your business plan, executive statement and operating agreements. Your investors will want to see a viable business with dependable owners and limited debt.
Know how your product can be manufactured, distributed and marketed. Check into overseas manufacturing as well.
Create a few test products along with packaging ideas. Be willing to adjust if needed.
Make a list and description of other owned patents that may support the product.
Trademark associated terms, if applicable. You'll want to carefully research product names and variations.