Stand out. Differentiate yourself. Eco friendly cleaning for example. Stand out in terms of quality of service. Try promotional mail / offers and discounts. When free, do cold calling, emails and telecalling to get leads and business.

Don’t argue or try to convince them. Success has many relatives. Failures remain orphans.

If you don’t get funding, ask what milestones are required to be acheived to approach them again.

Also ask for feedback and advise.