I'm a self-funded searcher who is diving into the world of ETA. I'm wondering what the consensus is on when to raise capital. I'm working with a mentor and coach who states that I need to raise capital only once I've gotten a deal under LOI. However, I often hear from experts on podcasts and from lenders, brokers, attorneys that I should I have investors lined up before getting a deal. What is the consensus on this? If I need to find investors before having a deal, what are ways to go about that? Do I need to create a pitch deck? If so, what type of information would I include in that, given I have no deal. Also, does anyone have a Pitch Deck example for a situation like this?

Thank you in advance taking the time to read this post and any knowledge you might have.