Plus: Flexibility, no crowds. Minus: Cat on the keyboard, forgotten lunch.
Working from home sounds like a dream. There's no traffic jam, you work in pajamas, and coffee is exactly what you like. But when the business world moves to your living room, the situation can become more challenging than it seems at first glance.
Entrepreneurs working from home often struggle with the demarcation of private and business. Borders blur quickly and the feeling of being ‘always at work’ becomes real.
Flexibility or Chaos
One of the biggest advantages of working from home is flexibility. You organize the day as you like, breaks when you want, clothes of your choice. But that same flexibility easily slips into chaos without a clear routine.
Advice: Set clear working hours. Even when working from the living room, try to mentally (and physically) separate the space for work from the space for relaxation.
Isolation vs. cooperation
Communication goes through Zoom, Slack and Teams, but physical contact is missing. Loneliness, reduced cooperation and the feeling that "you have to do everything alone" can be easily retracted.
Advice: Plan regular virtual meetings with the team and colleagues. Informal conversations, even over the screen, help preserve the team spirit.
Self-master and employee
Motivation can be challenging when there's no one to watch you. Delaying tasks and lack of focus easily occur when you are your own boss and sole employee.
Advice: Set goals (daily, weekly, monthly) and use tools like Trello or Asana. And yes - small rewards after the work done do wonders.
Productivity in slippers
Working from home means more distractions, from housework to a refrigerator called by name. Without a physical transition to "working mode", the focus can disappear quickly.
Advice: Separate the space just for work, no matter how small it may be. A ritual such as ‘shifting out of your pajamas’ helps your brain recognise the start of your working day.
Reconciliation of private and business
When your office is in the living room, it's hard to separate private from business. Family, partner, pets – everyone thinks you are ‘available’, even though you are actually in a meeting.
Advice: Communicate clearly when you work. The routine of the beginning and the end of the working day helps you not to burn and that your people know when to distract you.
Technical challenges
Slow internet, power outages, mess with tools... technology can make your day easier or more complicated.
Advice: Invest in good equipment and stable connection. Learn the basics of digital tools and update them regularly, your business depends on it.
Creativity in solitude
When you're buried in an operation, it's hard to think strategically. And that's exactly what you need, especially if you're a solo entrepreneur.
Advice: Leave room for thought. Go for a walk, write down ideas, sometimes just sit down and do nothing. Creative sparkles love silence.
Our goal is your success. Together, we shape sustainable solutions and create the foundations for growth, competitiveness and innovation.
The twin has three ideas before breakfast, but he doesn't finish any without coffee. Cancer would rather work from home, in pajamas, with a team he loves as a family. The lion likes to be the boss. And an influencer. And that's what everybody tells him. Capricorn is the CEO of kindergarten, already at that time he had an Excel table for pocket money.
And you? Are you a visionary like Aquarius, a perfectionist like Virgo, or maybe chaotic genius like Gemini? In front of you is a fun view of personal leadership styles, without a crystal ball. We don't guarantee business success, but maybe we'll give you a new insight into your own entrepreneurial mindset.
Aries - First at the start
Full of energy and ideas. He's not waiting for things to move, he's running them. He always does, invents, creates and solves something. He does not like to listen to other people's orders and is rarely a team player, he wants to lead. He's impulsive, brave, and risk-prone. Gives 100% himself, but if his job gets boring, his fire goes out quickly.
Business Virtue: Quick decision-making and courage
Possible challenge: Skip planning and details
Advice: Slow down and think, planning can help reduce risk.
Taurus - Stable as the foundation of a company
Reliable, patient and thorough, Taurus builds a business step by step. It works diligently and will not stop until it achieves stability and security. It's great at managing finances and it doesn't take off, every move has to make sense. He thinks long-term and not to be easily shaken.
Business virtue: Financial wisdom and perseverance
Challenge: Resisting change and risk
Advice: Safety is important but growth comes outside the comfort zone.
Gemini - Chaotic genius
He has three new ideas before breakfast. Gemini tends to a dynamic working environment, routine chokes it. He's a great player in teamwork and networking. It was created for multitasking, problem solving and reviving new ideas. He needs a job that won't hold him back and limit him to just one task.
Business virtue: Creativity and adaptability
Possible challenge: Lack of focus
Advice: Focus energy – a genius idea is valid only when it is implemented to the end.
Cancer - Soul of the team
Cancer is intuitive, emotional and is often guided by a sense of what is best for its clients or team. Entrepreneurship for him is not just a job, but an opportunity to contribute to the community and create something with the soul. His leadership style is based on intuition, caring for people and feeling safe. He's happiest when he works from home comfort. He is reliable, committed and incredibly valuable.
Business virtue: Intuition and care for the team
Possible challenge: Emotional overload in decision-making
Advice: Sometimes it is important to listen to logic, especially when making business decisions.
Leo - Leader under spotlights
The lion is a natural boss and does not like to have superiors who control him. He likes to be in the center of attention, not because of the ego, but because he can inspire. Its energy is contagious, and its leadership style is naturally dominant and motivating. He knows how to attract attention and make an impression. He's focused on himself, so he often builds a brand around his personality and forgets about it.
Business virtue: Charisma and Ambition
Possible challenge: Egocentricity and the need for recognition
Advice: Show greatness and support to others – success also comes from cooperation, not just from splendour.
Virgin - Queen of Orders
The Virgin is the queen of order and detail. Analytic, organized and perfectionist by nature, in business leaves nothing to chance and expects perfection. Tables, lists… everything is under control. He's probably been running KPI tables since the idea phase. Quality, efficiency and precision are sacred to her. The Virgin knows how to rationally manage the budget and will always choose practical, sustainable solutions.
Business virtue: Organisation and quality
Possible challenge: Perfectionism that hinders
Advice: Let things flow, "almost" is better than "perfect but never launched".
Balance – Golden mean
The scales bring harmony into the team, into the office, into the negotiating room. It has the natural ability to connect people and create win-win situation. Charming and just, she tries to hear all sides and build harmony in the work environment, sometimes too much. It works well in the team and people love it, but the need for balance makes it difficult to take on the role of leader – it lacks the initiative to lead others. It is important to her that her work does not disrupt her peace and private life, which can be both her strength and a potential obstacle.
Business virtue: Working together and feeling for people
Possible challenge: Delay with decisions and lack of initiative
Advice: Harmony is important, but don't let the desire to be satisfied prevent your determination.
Scorpio – Passionate Strategist
Scorpio doesn't give up. Focused, strategic and committed, it goes to the end when it gets to work. He is not afraid to roll up his sleeves – he is ready to work hard if he is heading towards the finish line. He does not show emotions, but he always knows what he wants and invests enormous energy in achieving his goals. He radiates authority, does not mix business with emotions and has the instinct for the right moment. His concentration and persistence make him an extremely capable leader. Respect gives but seeks it back.
Business virtue: Intensity and resilience
Possible challenge: Mystery and prudence
Advice: You don't have to do it all alone. Your strength does not weaken when you build relationships, on the contrary, it becomes even greater.
Sagittarius - Visionary on the move
Cheerful, curious and enthusiastic, he loves freedom, change and challenges. His business plans often include a world map, a roaming option, and a desire to learn something new. He's always willing to take risks because he believes the universe will give him what he needs. He likes a dynamic atmosphere, communicates easily and knows how to motivate a team. But because of the fast pace, his focus sometimes drops, and his impatience knows how to drag him away before he finishes the start.
Business virtue: Enthusiasm and vision for growth
Possible challenge: Impatience and unfinished projects
Advice: Success requires perseverance. Freedom is important, but consistency also leads to a goal.
Capricorn - Director in the Soul
Capricorn has a plan. And very detailed. Ambitious, disciplined and dedicated, he perceives work as a mission, and goals as a commitment. He has no turning – he knows where he is going and nothing can stop him. Its strength lies in methodical work, long-term planning and perseverance. He is loyal, responsible and often the most reliable in the team. He likes structure, order and financial security. But sometimes he devotes himself so much to the goals that he forgets to enjoy the process.
Business virtue: Disciplinary planning
Possible challenge: Forgetting that work can be fun too
Advice: Not everything has to be perfectly arranged – allow yourself some spontaneity, creativity often comes from relaxation.
Aquarius - Out-of-the-box innovator
Aquarius does not ask: Kif it is done otherwise? He asks: ZWhat are we doing like that anyway? Entrepreneur of the future, often misunderstood in the present. He thinks outside the box and looks for ways to improve the world through innovation. Technology is his playground, and originality is his trademark. He inspires the team around him and asks for freedom to go his own way. But in its flight to the future, it is easy to forget that business also requires a stable foundation.
Business virtue: Vision and originality
Possible challenge: Moving away from reality
Advice: A great idea is worth more when it's workable – it keeps one leg on the ground.
Fish - Soft-hearted dreamers
Empathic and creative, Pisces approach entrepreneurship with the heart. Their ideas come from a deep desire to create something beautiful, useful or socially important.Art, education, design or social impact – this is their natural environment. It's not about numbers, it's about feeling and passion. But as committed as they are, sometimes they forget to set boundaries and protect themselves.
Business virtue: Empathy and Imagination
Possible challenge: Weak borders and emotional overload
Advice: Your intuition is precious, but sometimes it is important to stop, think strategically and set clear frameworks.
We didn't bring a recipe for success, perhaps a small look at personal strengths and weaknesses. And of course, a good opportunity to smile. If anything, you found out who on the team always has a table ready, and who forgets that the deadline is tomorrow.
Our goal is your success. Together, we shape sustainable solutions and create the foundations for growth, competitiveness and innovation.
For projects that combine education, community and creative services, the association's cooperation with a craft or company can be a sustainable business model.
In the sectors of culture, education, creative industries and social entrepreneurship, many face the same problem: How to reconcile social value and financial sustainability?
The challenge arises because one legal form cannot respond to all needs. The association cannot charge for all services, while crafts or d.o.o. are not suitable for non-profit activities. This is where the possibility opens up. Hybrid Business Model, i.e. cooperation between an association and a craft or company.
Why combine association and crafts/d.o.o.?
This combination offers flexibility, visibility and balance between social impact and market approach:
the association can apply more easily to the EU and public tenders, enjoys the trust of the community and is focused on a social mission,
crafts/d.o.o.allows for service billing, market operations and more flexible recruitment.
Together, they can build a strong, resilient and sustainable system that allows for a balance between mission and market.
Three models of cooperation
Model 1: Association as holder, obrt/d.o.o. as operational partner
The association manages non-profit activities, applies for competitions, manages the program and develops content. Obrt/d.o.o. provides commercial services on the basis of a cooperation agreement.
Ideal for projects with strong social focus and occasional market activities.
Model 2: Obrt/d.o.o. as holder, association as program partner
Obrt or d.o.o. manages space, business and revenue. The association is involved as a partner in educational and social content.
Suitable for projects that want to combine clear business goals with strong social impact.
Model 3: Two entities, two functions
Both entities act independently, with their teams, finances and premises, and are connected by a common vision and occasional cooperation.
Suitable for mature initiatives that want to maintain independence but build a strategic partnership.
What is the key to a good relationship?
Cooperation can work in the long term if relationships are professional and clearly defined. It is desirable to:
keep separate accounts and ensure mutual transparency.
agree on the roles, responsibilities and competences of each entity;
conclude cooperation agreements governing revenue, use of premises and intellectual property,
Where does it already work?
Such models of cooperation are successfully applied in:
educational centers and incubators,
cultural associations collaborating with creative studios,
Socio-entrepreneurial initiatives that want to charge part of their services,
hybrid coworking spaces with commercial and shared content.
Hybrid models: Flexibility for sustainability
There are a significant number of initiatives that want to combine social impact with stable income. In this context, the combination of association and crafts or d.o.o. is a flexible and functional model that allows the best of both worlds – balancing between value and market, with more flexibility in everyday business.
If you have a project that works in multiple sectors, maybe this is exactly the model you are looking for.
Our goal is your success. Together, we shape sustainable solutions and create the foundations for growth, competitiveness and innovation.
Starting a business is one thing. Finding capital and partners who believe in your idea is completely different.
When a startup goes in search of an investment, it is usually found between two extremes: banks that require insurance that beginners often do not have and risk funds that wait to prove market viability. It is at this initial and most vulnerable stage of development that they enter the scene business angels.
What are business angels?
Business angels are experienced individuals who invest part of their assets in new companies with growth potential.
But unlike classic investors, business angels usually invest time and attention with money, i.e. act as mentors, advisors and development partners. They are interested in specific sectors where they have experience and see capacity for development. They are guided by intuition. They listen to the vision, energy and potential of the team and what value and innovation a company can bring to the market. They invest earlier, when the risk is higher, but also the potential for growth is higher. Business angels are aware that they may not be able to count on the return on investment immediately.
The concept of business angels dates back to the theatrical jargon of the early 20th century, when the wealthy donors ‘angels’ saved risky theatrical productions. Professor Wetzel formalized the term in 1978 to describe private investors investing their own capital, knowledge and contacts in startups.
What is their role?
Business angels play an important role in the economy. In many countries, they represent the second largest source of external financing for start-ups, after family and friends. They can be a key milestone in the development of startups as they allow for faster growth and additional capital without the need to borrow.
But their role is not purely financial. Experienced business angels also bring mentoring, business contacts and support in times of crisis, acting as partners who know the challenges of growth and market dynamics. In addition, their participation often gives the project additional credibility, which makes it easier to attract new investors or business partners. It is no coincidence that startups who receive angel investment grow faster, survive longer, and provide additional sources of capital more easily.
How to attract them?
It is legitimate to wonder what characteristics should be attached to an ‘ideal’ project in which someone will invest. Undoubtedly, there are some requirements that can make a startup more interesting in the eyes of investors, namely:
Good performance – It is important not to forget that a good business idea cannot happen on its own! The implementation is crucial for the realization of the project to its full potential. Before investing money in a startup, business angels must carry out assessments by analyzing concrete stages of development that can confirm the viability and scalability of the idea.
Business plan – This document is not just a formality but a key tool to turn the idea into a sustainable strategy. A quality business plan clearly highlights the strengths of the project, explains its market value and competitive advantages, and builds investor confidence. It is in this step that Porin can be your strong ally. Thanks to many years of experience in drafting business plans and investment studies, We help entrepreneurs to present their ideas clearly, concretely and convincingly. Let us know.
A good team – A business angel invests in people as much as in an idea. Experience, knowledge, mutual cooperation and a shared vision of the team are key factors. Team enthusiasm, will and determination can convince the investor that the idea is worthy of support.
Networking – Building relationships and creating a network of contacts is key to exchanging ideas, opening opportunities and finding the right people. The network often precedes the investment, so it is important to be present and active.
In addition, several concrete steps can significantly increase the chances of attracting business angels:
Prepare pitch deck – present your idea, market potential, team and growth plan clearly, briefly and convincingly.
Have a business model and MVP – business angels want to see that the idea takes shape and that there is already a concrete value (minimum sustainable product).
Develop a growth and revenue plan – without it, there is no confidence in long-termism.
Participate in the startup and pitching events – this is where investors can spot you.
Build relationships and prepare for due diligence – the verification process is detailed and good preparation shows seriousness.
Contact networks such as CBAN and CRANE, where you can reach angels interested in your sector.
All this together sends a message to investors: We're ready. We have knowledge, structure and vision. And we're looking for a partner who shares our enthusiasm. There are good opportunities, but preparation is the key.
Key Angels in Croatia
Many angels act individually but also through the networks of angels. In Croatia, these are:
A new national network was established in 2025 with the aim of bringing together investors and startups. They are focused on technological projects in Croatia and the SE Europe region. Founders Mihovil Barančić, Renata Brkić and Mirna Marović create frameworks for investment, mentoring and networking. CBAN recently signed a strategic cooperation agreement within the initiative Adriatic Investors. The initiative was launched this year at the PODIM conference in Maribor. CBAN and Business Angels of Slovenia They joined forces to unite Balkan investors from Croatia, Slovenia, North Macedonia and Albania in one organisation to boost joint investments, business creation and job creation across the region. This cooperation directly exploits the strong technical and entrepreneurial potential in the Balkans.
At the European level, particular attention is paid to EBAN (European Business Angels Network). It is a leading European organisation established in 1999 in cooperation with the European Commission and EURADA. Today, EBAN represents more than 100 members from over 50 countries, including national networks, individual investors, venture capital funds and other organisations active in the early entrepreneurial phase.
EBAN acts as a non-profit association whose mission is threefold:
networking of business angels and investors through international events and conferences,
exchange of knowledge and best practices among members, with a view to strengthening professional standards,
representation of the sector before public and governmental institutions, including European institutions.
The EBAN community counts more than 10,000 individual business angels, and in addition to operating across Europe, the network is increasingly involved in fostering regional initiatives and local investment ecosystems.
Literature and sources for more information about business angels
Handbook of Research on Business Angels – Hans Landström & Colin Mason (2016) – 30 years of business angel research, their role, market evolution and support policies. It offers recommendations for future business angel research.
Angel Investing: Matching Startup Funds with Startup Companies – Mark Van Osnabrugge & Robert Robinson (2000) – A practical guide for entrepreneurs and investors, describing the investment process; due diligence, the structure of investments and practical examples.
Angel Investing – David S. Rose (founder of Gust Platform) (2014) – A popular and readable handbook that explains, through real examples and recommendations, how to successfully invest in start-ups and actively participate in the development of portfolio companies.
Angel: How to Invest in Technology Startups Jason Calacanis (2017) – Experiences of one of the most famous angels in Silicon Valley: how to identify potential investments, what to expect and how to build a successful portfolio .
