Angel Investment Network US Guide for Fundraising and Growth

Author

Reads 232

Free stock photo of agreement, analyst, angel investor
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of agreement, analyst, angel investor

Angel investment networks in the US offer a valuable resource for startups looking to raise capital and drive growth. There are over 250 angel investor groups in the US, each with its own focus and investment criteria.

These groups are made up of high net worth individuals who invest their own money in startups, often in exchange for equity. Angel investors are typically involved in the startup's decision-making process and may provide valuable guidance and mentorship.

To get started with an angel investment network, you'll need to create a strong pitch and business plan that showcases your startup's potential for growth and return on investment. This typically involves a clear and concise presentation of your company's mission, products, and financials.

Networking and building relationships with angel investors is key to securing funding, so be prepared to attend pitch events and conferences to connect with potential investors.

Angel Investment Networks in the US

There are various platforms where you can find and meet angel investors in the US, such as Angel Investment Network US and US Investment Network, which allow you to post your startup projects and present your company to potential investors.

Free stock photo of agreement, alliance, angel investor
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of agreement, alliance, angel investor

These online platforms also have a search function to help you find suitable angel investors. You can browse through their member list to find an investor that matches your business needs.

You can also attend networking events and conferences specifically targeted for entrepreneurs to meet investors. There are plenty of events happening both offline and virtually, which you can find through Meetup.com.

Additionally, you can leverage your existing network of entrepreneurs, industry colleagues, and other business connections to get referrals to potential angel investors. You can also directly outreach to potential investors on LinkedIn and contact them via email or organize a meeting.

Some notable angel investment groups in the US include BlueTree Allied Angels, New York Angels, and New World Angels, which have a track record of investing in comparable businesses.

CircleUp

CircleUp is a unique angel investment network that focuses on consumer brands.

It connects startups in the consumer goods industry with a range of investors.

These investors include angel investors, family offices, and venture capital firms.

CircleUp has helped to raise over $500 million in funding for startups in the consumer goods industry.

Alliance

Free stock photo of agreement, analysis, angel investor
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of agreement, analysis, angel investor

The Alliance of Angels is an investment group based in Seattle, Washington, with over 140 angel investors. They invest over $10 million in more than 20 startups annually.

They focus on providing valuable mentorship services to their portfolio companies. This is in addition to the financial support they offer.

Alliance of Angels invests in early-stage startups, which are often the most vulnerable and in need of guidance. They also prioritize Northwest-based startups and Information Technology (IT) startups.

Here are the specific areas they focus on:

  • Early-stage startups
  • Northwest-based startups
  • Information Technology (IT) startups

New World

New World Angels is a great example of an angel investment network in the US. They have been active since 2003 and have invested over $20 million in early-stage companies in Florida, including notable portfolio companies like NuvOx Pharma and Admiral.

New World Angels invests in seed and series A stages, and their focus is sector-agnostic, meaning they don't limit themselves to a specific industry. They have a track record of investing in companies that launch new products and services, such as Aegle Therapeutics and VuPulse.

Free stock photo of angel investor, branding, business
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of angel investor, branding, business

If you're looking to connect with New World Angels, you can reach out to them through their contact information, or look into their involvement in incubator and accelerator programs that can provide introductions to their network.

Here's a quick rundown of New World Angels' key facts:

You can also find New World Angels through online platforms like Angel Investment Network US and US Investment Network, which allow you to post your startup projects and present your company to potential investors.

Systems

Angel Investment Networks in the US often have a formal process for reviewing and selecting startups to invest in.

These networks typically have a team of experienced investors who screen and evaluate potential investments, often using a standardized evaluation process.

Angel investors usually invest in startups that are in the seed or early stage of development, typically with a valuation of $500,000 to $5 million.

The networks often invest in a variety of industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer products, but may also focus on specific sectors such as clean energy or biotechnology.

A diverse group of professionals networking at a business event with refreshments.
Credit: pexels.com, A diverse group of professionals networking at a business event with refreshments.

The average angel investment in the US is around $25,000, although some investments can be much larger, up to $500,000 or more.

Angel investors typically expect a significant return on investment, often in the range of 5-10 times their initial investment.

In some cases, angel investors may also provide guidance and mentorship to the startups they invest in, helping them to navigate the challenges of early-stage growth.

Life Science

One of the most exciting areas of angel investment in the US is life science.

Life Science Angels is a notable player in this space, focusing on seed and series A funding for life science startups.

Founded in 2005, this California-based network has a strong track record of supporting innovative life science companies.

Some of its notable portfolio companies include Allylix, Carmenta, Advanced Cardiac Therapeutics, and Spirox.

These companies are making a real difference in the world, and it's great to see angel investors like Life Science Angels supporting them.

Baylor

Free stock photo of adults, agreement, angel investor
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of adults, agreement, angel investor

The Baylor Angel Network is a great example of an angel investment network in the US. It was founded in 2008, which is a relatively recent development in the world of angel investing.

The network focuses on sector-agnostic investments, meaning it doesn't specialize in any particular industry. This broad approach can be beneficial for startups looking for funding in a variety of areas.

One notable aspect of the Baylor Angel Network is its diverse portfolio of companies. Some of its notable investments include Abilitech, BrainCheck, Immerse, StreamVine, and Vartega.

The network is based in Texas, which is a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. This location can provide valuable connections and resources for startups looking to grow.

Here are some key details about the Baylor Angel Network at a glance:

  • Stage: Seed, Series A
  • Focus: Sector Agnostic
  • Year of Inception: 2008
  • Notable Portfolio: Abilitech, BrainCheck, Immerse, StreamVine, Vartega
  • Location: Texas

Regional Angel Investment Networks

Regional angel investment networks can be a valuable resource for startups looking to secure funding. There are several networks across the US that cater to specific regions and industries.

People Having Business Meeting Together
Credit: pexels.com, People Having Business Meeting Together

The Carolina Angel Network, based in North Carolina, focuses on medical diagnostics, biopharma, and medical devices, among other areas. It was founded in 2016 and has invested in companies like Arctx and Lindy Biosciences.

Sierra Angels, located in Nevada, takes a sector-agnostic approach, investing in startups across various industries. It was established in 1997 and has a notable portfolio that includes Crytica Security and Membrion.

Here is a list of the angel investment networks mentioned, along with their locations and years of inception:

  • Carolina Angel Network (2016, North Carolina)
  • Sierra Angels (1997, Nevada)

TCA Venture Group (Formerly TCG)

TCA Venture Group (Formerly TCG) is a prominent player in the regional angel investment network scene. It's been around since 1999, making it a seasoned veteran in the industry.

TCG has a strong presence in the Midwest region, with a focus on investing in early-stage companies. They've invested in over 150 companies, with a total of $150 million in capital deployed.

TCG's investment philosophy is centered around supporting entrepreneurs and startups in the Midwest. They aim to provide more than just financial support, but also guidance and mentorship to help these companies grow.

Free stock photo of adult, agreement, angel investor
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of adult, agreement, angel investor

TCG has a diverse portfolio of investments across various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer products. They've seen significant returns on their investments, with some companies achieving exits worth tens of millions of dollars.

TCG's experience and expertise have made them a go-to partner for many entrepreneurs and startups in the Midwest. They've built a reputation for being a reliable and supportive investor.

Golden Seeds

Golden Seeds is an angel investment firm that provides startup funding exclusively for women-founded and led startups in early-funding stages. They have a strong network of over 340 members who focus on investing in startups in the consumer product, tech, and software industries.

Golden Seeds specifically looks for startups that are women-founded or women-led, which is a unique focus within the angel investment world.

Regional Angel Investment Networks

Regional Angel Investment Networks are a key part of the startup ecosystem, providing funding and support to early-stage companies.

Free stock photo of aging technology, angel investor, assisting
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of aging technology, angel investor, assisting

Bulldog Angel Network, based in Alabama, focuses on sector-agnostic investments and has a notable portfolio that includes MySet, Wispr Systems, and Glo Cubes.

The network has been around since 2017 and is still actively investing.

Bulldog Angel Network is not the only network with a sector-agnostic focus, as Sierra Angels in Nevada also invests in a wide range of sectors.

Sierra Angels has been around since 1997 and has a notable portfolio that includes Crytica Security and Membrion.

Carolina Angel Network, based in North Carolina, focuses on the medical industry, with a notable portfolio that includes Arctx, Vitrivax, and Lindy Biosciences.

While the focus of these networks may differ, they all share a common goal of supporting early-stage companies in their regions.

Here are some key facts about these networks:

Central Texas

The Central Texas Angel Network is a great example of a regional angel investment network. It was founded in 2006.

This network focuses on investing in companies across various sectors, including consumer products and services, food and beverage, and healthcare. They also invest in software, fintech, logistics, security, and more.

Focused woman trading stocks on a laptop in a modern office setting, capturing the essence of investment and technology.
Credit: pexels.com, Focused woman trading stocks on a laptop in a modern office setting, capturing the essence of investment and technology.

One of the notable aspects of Central Texas Angel Network is its diverse portfolio. They've invested in companies like Avisa, Candidly, Loku, Pinwheel, and Vertify.

Here are some key facts about Central Texas Angel Network at a glance:

  • Stage: Seed, Series A
  • Focus: Consumer Products & Services, Food & Beverage, Healthcare, Industrial Internet, Mobile & Telecom, Software, FinTech, Logistics, Security
  • Year of Inception: 2006
  • Notable Portfolio: Avisa, Candidly, Loku, Pinwheel, Vertify
  • Location: Texas

Chemical

The Chemical Angel Network is a great example of a regional angel investment network. It's based in California and has been around since 2011.

This network focuses on hard technology, which means they invest in companies that develop innovative products or services. They've invested in some promising startups, including Zylo, Synode Systems, and Pediatric Bioscience.

Here are some key details about the Chemical Angel Network:

  • Stage: Seed, Series A
  • Focus: Hard Technology
  • Year of Inception: 2011
  • Notable Portfolio: Zylo, Synode Systems, Pediatric Bioscience
  • Location: California

Mid Atlantic Bio

Mid Atlantic Bio is a great example of a regional angel investment network that focuses on life science investments. They were founded in 2012 and are based in New York.

They primarily invest in seed and series A stages, which means they're looking for startups with a solid idea and some initial traction. This stage of investment is often critical for a company's growth and development.

Mid Atlantic Bio has a notable portfolio, with companies like PainQX, Elysium Therapeutics, and Sana Health. These companies are working on innovative solutions in the life science space.

If you're looking to connect with Mid Atlantic Bio, you can find their contact information in the relevant section.

Maine

Free stock photo of angel investor, branding, business
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of angel investor, branding, business

Maine is home to a thriving angel investment network, Maine Angels, which has been around since 2003.

They focus on sector-agnostic investments, meaning they're open to backing startups across various industries.

Maine Angels have a strong portfolio, including Abogen, Amplify, Cerahelix, and Groupize.

If you're interested in connecting with Maine Angels, you can find their contact information.

Here are some key details about Maine Angels at a glance:

  • Stage: Seed, Series A
  • Year of Inception: 2003
  • Location: Maine

Central Illinois

Central Illinois has a thriving angel investment network, the Central Illinois Angels. They focus on sector-agnostic investments, meaning they're open to backing companies across various industries.

Founded in 2009, this network has been active for over a decade, providing support to innovative startups. One notable portfolio company is Gearbox Express, which has likely benefited from the network's guidance and resources.

The Central Illinois Angels have also invested in Personify, Serionix, and SNOOZ, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing a diverse range of businesses. These investments are likely to have had a positive impact on the local economy.

If you're interested in learning more about the Central Illinois Angels or potentially collaborating with them, you can reach out to them directly.

Nola

Free stock photo of achievement, agreement, angel investor
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of achievement, agreement, angel investor

Nola Angel Network is a notable player in the regional angel investment scene. It was founded in 2014 and has a sector-agnostic focus, meaning it invests in a wide range of industries.

Nola Angel Network has a strong track record of supporting innovative startups. Its notable portfolio includes companies like Tympanogen, Altis Biosystems, and Ash & Erie.

If you're interested in learning more about Nola Angel Network, you can find contact information listed on their profile.

Why and How to Raise Funds

Raising funds through an angel investment network in the US can be a great option for startups. With over 250,000 active angel investors in the country, there's a large pool of potential investors to tap into. These investors are often successful entrepreneurs with valuable industry connections and expertise.

Angel investors can provide the capital startups need to build their businesses, often with more flexible terms than traditional sources of funding. Each angel group invests approximately $4.7 million per year across various companies. To increase your chances of attracting angel investment, it's essential to be prepared.

Free stock photo of agreement, angel investor, brainstorming
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of agreement, angel investor, brainstorming

Here are some key steps to take:

  • Create a detailed business plan that outlines your company's goals, financial projections, and market analysis.
  • Build a strong team with the skills and experience necessary to execute your business plan.
  • Have a clear exit strategy in place, such as selling the company outright or taking it public.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your company's finances and have a solid understanding of your revenue, expenses, and burn rate.

By following these steps and being prepared, you can increase your chances of securing angel investment and taking your startup to the next level.

Why Raise Funds?

Raising funds is a crucial step in building a successful startup, and there are many reasons why it's essential to do so. In the United States, the market for angel investment is thriving, with over 250,000 active angel investors supporting over 30,000 firms per year.

Angel investors can provide the capital startups need to build their businesses, offering more flexible terms than traditional sources of funding. This is particularly important in today's market, where financial institutions have tightened lending standards.

One of the main reasons to raise funds with angel investors is to gain access to funding. With the volatility of the present market, it can be difficult for new firms and entrepreneurs to secure traditional bank loans. According to the ACA Angel Funders Report, each angel group invests approximately $4.7 million per year across various companies, a 15% increase from investments made last year.

Business Partners Having a Meeting at the Office
Credit: pexels.com, Business Partners Having a Meeting at the Office

Angel investors can also provide valuable mentorship and knowledge. As seasoned entrepreneurs, they have numerous experiences in building various businesses and can offer guidance and expertise to startups.

In addition to funding and mentorship, angel investors can also provide industry connections. They have a large network of industry contacts that can help businesses gain credibility and trust from partners, other investors, and potential customers.

Here are the three main reasons to raise funds with angel investors in the United States:

  1. Access to funding
  2. Mentorship and knowledge
  3. Industry connections

How Can Startups Accelerate Growth?

Startups can accelerate growth by securing funding from angel investors, who provide access to capital, mentorship, and industry connections. Angel investors are successful entrepreneurs with a network of industry contacts, which can help startups gain credibility and trust from partners, other investors, and potential customers.

According to the Small Business Administration, there are over 250,000 active angel investors in the United States who support over 30,000 firms per year. Each angel group invests approximately $4.7 million per year across various companies, a 15% increase from investments made last year.

Group oO People Having A Meeting
Credit: pexels.com, Group oO People Having A Meeting

Angel investment networks can also help startups accelerate growth by providing access to a larger pool of capital and resources. These networks typically have a few dozen to a few hundred members, each of whom is an accredited investor. By joining these networks, startups can submit their business plans and pitch their companies to potential investors.

To prepare for angel investment, startups should create a detailed business plan, build a strong team, gain traction with early adopters and customers, and be prepared to answer questions about their finances. They should also have a clear exit strategy in place, such as selling the company outright or taking it public through an IPO.

Here are some key statistics on angel investment:

By following these steps and securing funding from angel investors, startups can accelerate their growth and achieve their goals.

US Cities with Angel Investment Networks

If you're looking to connect with angel investors in the US, you should know that there are various cities with established angel investment networks. For instance, Chicago is home to the Hyde Park Angels, a group of over 100 investors who focus on midwest startups in industries like industrial technology, information technology, and financial services.

Asian man and elderly woman in a business meeting shaking hands, conveying collaboration and agreement.
Credit: pexels.com, Asian man and elderly woman in a business meeting shaking hands, conveying collaboration and agreement.

In addition to Chicago, there's also the Houston Angel Network, which has been around since 2001 and has invested in companies like Galen Data and SipNShut. They're sector-agnostic, meaning they're open to investing in a wide range of industries.

Here are some key cities with angel investment networks in the US:

US Cities with Angel Investment Networks

Chicago is home to the Hyde Park Angels, a Chicago-based angel group composed of over 100 investors who primarily fund midwest startups in seed and early stages within the industrial technology, information technology, and financial services industries.

The Angel Capital Association, the largest angel investment network in the US, has over 400 members across the country, providing resources and support for angel investors.

Seattle is the location of the Alliance of Angels, a Seattle-based angel investment network that invests in early-stage companies in a variety of industries, with a particular focus on technology and life sciences.

A group of diverse professionals engaged in a collaborative business meeting indoors.
Credit: pexels.com, A group of diverse professionals engaged in a collaborative business meeting indoors.

The Keiretsu Forum is a global network of angel investors, with over 60 chapters worldwide, providing resources and support for members, including access to deal flow and educational materials.

Here are some specific angel investment networks by city:

Silicon Valley is the location of the Sand Hill Angels, a Silicon Valley angel investment group made up of angel investors with backgrounds in tech entrepreneurship.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and there are many other angel investment networks operating in the US.

Pasadena

Pasadena is home to a thriving angel investment network.

The Pasadena Angel Network has invested in over 100 companies since its inception in 2005.

One notable investment was in a company called EarthClassMail, which offers a suite of eco-friendly business solutions.

This investment helped the company expand its operations and create new jobs in the area.

The Pasadena Angel Network also has a strong focus on supporting women and minority-led startups.

New York

Free stock photo of angel investor, augmented reality, branding
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of angel investor, augmented reality, branding

New York is a hub for angel investment, with a variety of networks and groups to explore. NY Angels is one such group, composed of over 140 angels with diverse backgrounds and expertise.

If you're looking to connect with NY Angels, you can find them through online platforms like Angel Investment Network US and US Investment Network. These platforms allow you to post your startup projects and present your company to potential investors.

Networking events and conferences are also a great way to meet NY Angels, with many events happening both offline and virtually through Meetup.com. Incubator or accelerator programs can also provide access to their network of investors.

NY Angels has a notable portfolio of companies, including Crimson Hexagon, SeamlessDocs, Crowdly, and AdStash. They focus on seed-stage investments and are sector agnostic, making them a great fit for startups in various industries.

Here's a quick rundown of NY Angels' details:

  • Stage: Seed
  • Focus: Sector Agnostic
  • Year of Inception: 2004
  • Notable Portfolio: Crimson Hexagon, SeamlessDocs, Crowdly, AdStash
  • Location: New York

Park City

Park City has a thriving angel investment network that's worth exploring. Park City Angels is an angel investing group comprised of 100+ accredited investors who live in and around Park City, UT.

Close-Up Shot of Business Partners Holding Hands
Credit: pexels.com, Close-Up Shot of Business Partners Holding Hands

This group has a clear focus on supporting startups, particularly those based in Utah. They prefer to invest in Utah-based startups, but also consider applications from startups across the United States.

If you're a startup looking for funding, Park City Angels might be a good fit. They have a preference for investing in Utah-based startups, especially those in the healthcare, tech, and general sectors.

Here are some key details about Park City Angels:

  • Stage: Seed, Series A
  • Focus: Sector Agnostic
  • Year of Inception: 2008
  • Notable Portfolio: Lula, Consensus, RealVu, Symptom.ly
  • Location: Utah

It's great to see a strong angel investment network like Park City Angels supporting local startups.

BlueTree Allied

BlueTree Allied is an angel investor group that focuses on funding startup companies in Pennsylvania. Founded in 2003, they have a strong track record of supporting innovative startups.

They primarily invest in high-growth startups seeking between $200,000 to $3 million in funding. This range can be a good starting point for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses.

Their portfolio includes companies such as ALung Technologies, 4moms, and ApartmentJet, which have all made significant strides in their respective industries.

If you're a startup based in Pennsylvania, BlueTree Allied might be a good fit for your funding needs.

Houston

Three entrepreneurs meeting and shaking hands in a modern office setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Three entrepreneurs meeting and shaking hands in a modern office setting.

Houston is a city with a well-established angel investment network, the Houston Angel Network. This network focuses on sector-agnostic investments, meaning they're open to backing startups across various industries.

The network has been around since 2001, making it a seasoned player in the angel investment scene. One notable portfolio company is Galen Data.

The Houston Angel Network also has a presence in Texas, which is a great advantage for startups looking for local support.

U.S

If you're looking to connect with angel investors in the US, there are various online platforms to consider. Angel Investment Network US and US Investment Network allow you to post your startup projects and present your company to potential investors.

You can also attend networking events and conferences, such as those found on Meetup.com, to meet investors in person. Networking events provide a great opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs and industry professionals who can introduce you to angel investors.

Free stock photo of blockchain, blockchain finance, blockchain network
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of blockchain, blockchain finance, blockchain network

Incubator and accelerator programs often offer access to their network of investors, which can be a valuable resource for finding angel investors. Many entrepreneurs leverage their community of colleagues and business networks to get referrals to potential angel investors.

You can also scout through LinkedIn to find potential angel investors and contact them directly via email or organize a meeting. However, it's essential to make sure that the investors you're approaching are a suitable fit for your business and have a track record of investing in comparable businesses.

Here are some notable angel investors and networks in the US:

Bellingham

Bellingham is a hub for angel investors in Washington, with a focus on sector-agnostic investments. This means they're open to backing startups from various industries.

One notable aspect of Bellingham Angel Investors is their focus on seed and series A funding. This stage of investment is crucial for startups looking to get off the ground.

Man and a Woman on a Business Meeting
Credit: pexels.com, Man and a Woman on a Business Meeting

The group was established in 2005, giving them over 15 years of experience in the field. This level of expertise is invaluable for entrepreneurs seeking guidance and support.

Some notable portfolio companies of Bellingham Angel Investors include Elevate K-12, Lumencor, and Healionics. These companies have likely benefited from the group's guidance and resources.

Here are some key details about Bellingham Angel Investors:

  • Stage: Seed, Series A
  • Focus: Sector Agnostic
  • Year of Inception: 2005
  • Notable Portfolio: Elevate K-12, Lumencor, Healionics
  • Location: Washington

Nebraska

Nebraska is home to a thriving angel investment network, the Nebraska Angels. They focus on sector-agnostic investments, meaning they don't limit themselves to specific industries.

The Nebraska Angels were established in 2006, making them a seasoned group with a decade of experience under their belt. They have a notable portfolio that includes companies like BenefitBay, Alpaca, and Elevator.

One of the key things to note about the Nebraska Angels is their location in Nebraska. This gives them a unique perspective on the local business landscape and allows them to tap into the region's entrepreneurial spirit.

Here are some key details about the Nebraska Angels:

  • Stage: Seed, Series A
  • Focus: Sector Agnostic
  • Year of Inception: 2006
  • Notable Portfolio: BenefitBay, Alpaca, Elevator
  • Location: Nebraska

TiE Boston

Crop unrecognizable coworkers in formal wear standing at table with laptop and documents while greeting each other before meeting
Credit: pexels.com, Crop unrecognizable coworkers in formal wear standing at table with laptop and documents while greeting each other before meeting

TiE Boston is an angel investment network based in Massachusetts. They focus on sector-agnostic investments, meaning they're open to backing startups in a wide range of industries.

Their investment stage typically ranges from seed to series A, indicating they support early-stage startups that are looking to scale.

TiE Boston was founded in 2011, making them a seasoned player in the angel investment scene. They've already shown their expertise by backing notable startups like FitBark and MeetCaregivers.

You can reach out to TiE Boston if you're interested in learning more about their investment opportunities.

Find US VCs

To find VCs and Angel Investors in the US, you can start by checking out platforms like AngelList, which connects startups with investors and provides access to tools and resources to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

AngelList has a database of over 200,000 investors and has helped raise over $2 billion in funding for startups.

If you're looking for more specific investment opportunities, consider checking out New World Angels, which has provided over $20 million to early-stage companies in Florida since 2014.

Photo Of People Having Meeting
Credit: pexels.com, Photo Of People Having Meeting

New World Angels has helped launch companies like Aegle Therapeutics, Admiral, and SwitchBoard to new heights.

Here are some notable VC and Angel Investor groups in the US:

The Top

The Queen City Angels has invested over $110 million across 237 different investments over the past 21 years.

The Angel Capital Association is the largest angel investment network in the US, with over 400 members across the country.

Queen City Angels also owns the QCA Education Foundation, a nonprofit arm that works to train and mentor founders.

The Alliance of Angels invests in early-stage companies in a variety of industries, with a particular focus on technology and life sciences.

Some of the top angel investment networks in the US include:

The Keiretsu Forum is a global network of angel investors, with over 60 chapters worldwide.

Navigating the Angel Investment Process

Navigating the angel investment process can be intimidating, but it's a great way to access additional resources for startup funding.

Professionals engaging in a casual networking session during a business conference.
Credit: pexels.com, Professionals engaging in a casual networking session during a business conference.

To start, you need to identify the right angel investment network for your business. Consider factors such as the size of the network, the types of investments they offer, and the types of companies they invest in. Some networks specialize in certain industries, while others are more general in nature.

Once you've chosen a network, get familiar with their process and procedures. Most networks have a formal application process that includes completing an online form or submitting a business plan. Make sure your application is complete and accurate, and be prepared to discuss your business plan and demonstrate why your company is a good fit for their network.

Building relationships with angel investors takes time and effort, but it can be incredibly rewarding if you find the right investor. You can attend networking events and conferences, leverage your community of entrepreneurs and industry colleagues, or even scout through LinkedIn to find potential angel investors.

Navigating

Credit: youtube.com, Chapter 8 - Navigating the Funding Process

Navigating the Angel Investment Process can be intimidating, but it's a crucial step in securing funding for your startup. To start, you need to identify the right angel investment network for your business.

You can find angel investment networks through online platforms such as AngelList, Gust, and FundersClub. Researching online directories like the AngelList database can also help you find potential networks. Attend startup events and pitch competitions to make connections and get your foot in the door.

Once you've identified a few potential networks, reach out and introduce yourself. Most angel investment networks have an online application process, so start by filling out any required forms. Include all relevant information about your startup, including your business model, team, and financials.

To build relationships with angel investment networks, attend industry events and conferences, join angel investment groups or networks, engage with startup accelerators or incubators, and leverage online platforms that connect investors with startups.

Here are some key characteristics to look for in an angel investment network:

  • Size of the network
  • Types of investments they offer
  • Types of companies they invest in
  • Industry focus

By understanding these factors, you can determine which networks best suit the needs of your business.

Sidecar

Professionals Gathered on a Meeting
Credit: pexels.com, Professionals Gathered on a Meeting

Sidecar is a great example of an angel investment group that's been around for a while. It was founded in 2012.

Sidecar focuses on investing in startups at the seed and series A stages. They're sector agnostic, which means they're open to investing in companies across various industries.

One of the notable portfolio companies of Sidecar is Bedrock Data. They've also invested in CampusSIMS, Mobee, and Diesel Labs.

Sidecar is based in Massachusetts, which might be a good location for startups looking for angel investment.

Common Deal Terms

As you navigate the angel investment process, it's essential to understand the common deal terms that angels use.

Pre-money valuation is the value of your company before the angel invests, typically $5 million or less.

Equity is the ownership stake that angel investors receive in your company in exchange for their investment.

Dilution occurs when a company issues new equity, resulting in existing shareholders owning a smaller percentage of the company. Angels typically accept a higher degree of dilution than venture capitalists.

A bustling indoor business expo with professionals networking and engaging at various booths.
Credit: pexels.com, A bustling indoor business expo with professionals networking and engaging at various booths.

A convertible note is a loan that converts to equity at a later date, allowing angels to avoid valuing the company at an early stage.

Angels typically expect to see a return on their investment within 5-7 years, and may receive additional compensation in the form of equity if the company is sold or goes public.

What Happens After Funding?

After securing angel investment, it's essential to keep your investors informed about your company's progress. You should provide them with regular reports, at least quarterly, on how the company is doing and how their investment is being used.

Maintaining transparency is key to building trust with your investors, and it's a good idea to keep them informed of any major changes in the company. This includes new product launches or changes in management.

If your company is doing well, consider giving your investors a "bonus" by issuing them additional shares of stock. This is a great way to keep them motivated and invested in your company's success.

Exit strategies can be complex, so it's crucial to consult with a lawyer or accountant to ensure you're taking the best possible course of action for your company and your investors.

Maggie Morar

Senior Assigning Editor

Maggie Morar is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. With a background in business and finance, she has developed a unique expertise in covering investor relations news and updates for prominent companies. Her extensive experience has taken her through a wide range of industries, from telecommunications to media and retail.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.