Early Funding Commitments

Has anyone had success securing commitments for equity backing early in the search process on any deals? I'm industry and geo-agnostic. EBITDA $500K to $5MM. I am not currently working on a deal, though we are considering it if we find the right partners. I am researching, writing and creating video content on the search process and start from the beginning. Have negotiated over 20 deals, as legal counsel, I need much of the process, but am trying to find good sources on other routes of funding than the SBA. If interested, I'm also looking for candidates for interviews.