Miami has become a hotbed for angel investors, with many firms calling the city home.
Some of the top angel investor firms in Miami include Fairview Capital, which has invested in companies like Magic Leap and CareZone.
Fairview Capital focuses on investing in companies that have a strong potential for growth and scalability.
Miami's thriving startup ecosystem has attracted many angel investors to the city, with some firms investing in industries such as fintech and healthcare.
The Miami area is also home to a number of accelerators and incubators, which provide resources and support to early-stage companies.
Angel Investors in Miami
Miami's angel investing scene is thriving, with several prominent groups leading the charge. Miami Angels is one of the largest angel investing networks, with over 150 members, and has invested more than $22 million in over 60 companies.
They focus on backing extraordinary founders with groundbreaking ideas, prioritizing diversity and transparency in their investment process. With a sweet spot for early-stage, post-launch SaaS companies, they offer not only capital but also strategic support and access to a broad network of experienced investors and industry professionals.
If you're a startup looking for investment, consider the following groups: Miami Angels, Krillion Ventures, Zelkova Ventures, and Starlight Ventures. Each has its own unique focus and investment criteria, but all share a commitment to supporting innovative entrepreneurs in Miami.
Here are some of the key investment areas for these groups:
- Miami Angels: Tech-Powered SaaS Startups, U.S.-Based Operations, Diverse & Experienced Teams
- Krillion Ventures: HealthTech Pioneers, Real Estate Revolutionaries, Finance Game Changers
- Zelkova Ventures: SaaS Pioneers, RetailTech Innovators, Eco-friendly Techies
- Starlight Ventures: Humanity-Focused Innovators, Foundational Science Pioneers, Sustainability Trailblazers
Krillion
Krillion Ventures is a venture capital firm that seeks companies that are "one in a krillion." They focus on startups solving issues in healthcare, financial services, and real estate. Managing partner Melissa Krinzman emphasizes the importance of passion, tenacity, and fearlessness in startup founders, but also notes that these traits can quickly become negatives if not accompanied by the ability to accept and process feedback.
Krillion Ventures has invested in companies like Healthtech startup Cohealo, lead generation platform Fame, and all-in-one publishing solution Everypost. They're rooted deeply in the Miami scene, but also open to working with entrepreneurs from other corners who have a "dazzling spark."
If you're a visionary entrepreneur building a groundbreaking company, Krillion Ventures might be a good fit for you. They're particularly interested in HealthTech Pioneers, Real Estate Revolutionaries, and Finance Game Changers.
Here are some areas where Krillion Ventures is actively seeking startups:
- HealthTech Pioneers: Krillion is all eyes and ears for tech innovators looking to revamp the healthcare landscape with groundbreaking solutions.
- Real Estate Revolutionaries: Got an idea that's reshaping the bricks and mortar of real estate? They're game to back your venture.
- Finance Game Changers: If you’re using tech to rewrite the rules of financial services, then you might just be the "one in a krillion" they're searching for.
Quixotic
Quixotic Ventures is a Miami-based venture capital firm that's been making waves in the startup scene. Led by entrepreneur Mark Kingdon, the firm focuses on social media, e-commerce, and digital media platforms.
Mark Kingdon has a knack for spotting digital gold, having invested in giants like Twitter and UberMedia. He's also poured resources into other successful startups.
Quixotic Ventures has been supporting 30 startups since 2005, with 11 of them achieving successful exits. That's a track record to be proud of.
If your startup is focused on consumer internet, e-commerce, or SAAS, Quixotic Ventures might be a great fit. They're all ears for consumer-centric internet ventures that promise innovation and transformative market approaches.
Here are the areas they're particularly interested in:
- Consumer-Focused Internet Startups: Quixotic Ventures is looking for consumer-centric internet ventures that promise innovation and transformative market approaches.
- E-Commerce Mavericks: Startups reinventing the digital shopping experience, and breaking e-commerce molds are exactly what catches their attention.
- SAAS Game Changers: They're on the lookout for SAAS platforms offering unique solutions, especially those that bridge consumer needs with tech in revolutionary ways.
Ocean Azul Partners
Ocean Azul Partners is a Miami-based early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2017. They seek long-term partnerships with passionate founders who have innovative solutions to problems within various industries.
Their typical investment is between $200K to $2M, and they're not just about providing funding, but also seasoned operators who've walked the startup path themselves. They take a seat at the table, quite literally, with board seats!
They've invested in 51 companies, including notable ones like BabySparks and TaxFyle, and are looking for startups with a unique edge and a spark. Their focus is on the U.S. market, with a soft spot for early-stage companies rooted in B2B software and deep tech.
They're looking for startups that can carve out and keep their market lead, often through a unique IP or other edge. If you're a startup leveraging tech for businesses, you're in their ballpark.
Here are some key areas Ocean Azul Partners focuses on:
- B2B Software & Deep Tech: They invest in early-stage companies rooted in B2B software and deep tech.
- U.S. Market Focused: They target the U.S. market, with a global reach including Israel.
- Definable Edge: They look for startups with a unique edge, such as a unique IP or other competitive advantage.
Secocha
Secocha Ventures is a Miami-based firm that supports early-stage startups in consumer products & services, fintech, and healthcare technology. They invest in great ideas and passionate founders, with investments worldwide, including the US, India, Israel, and France.
With over 30 investments worldwide, Secocha Ventures packs a mighty punch despite its modest team size. They focus on early-stage startups within FinTech, HealthTech, and Consumer Products and services.
Secocha Ventures champions the next generation of disruptors, welcoming innovations from around the globe. They back visionaries raising Pre-Seed to Series-A rounds, providing not just capital but a robust online portal and mentorship to skyrocket their portfolio companies' growth.
Here are the areas where Secocha Ventures focuses its investments:
- Global Disruptors: If your startup is breaking molds and operating in any corner of the world, especially in B2C, Secocha Ventures is your ally.
- HealthTech Heroes: Innovators propelling the HealthTech industry, with fresh, consumer-oriented solutions that merge health and technology, this might be your financial home.
- FinTech Forward: Startups that are not merely playing but reinventing the field in FinTech, introducing consumable, tech-driven financial products or services, let’s talk bucks.
Pantera
Pantera Capital is a pioneering force in the U.S. blockchain tech scene, launching the nation's first cryptocurrency fund in 2013. They introduced the inaugural blockchain-focused venture fund and an early-stage token fund in 2017, commanding a whopping $3.3 billion in assets.
Dan Morehead, the founder of Pantera, has seen impressive results, with $242 million realized from $57 million invested across 28 firms. This is a testament to their keen eye for startups that are pushing digital assets and innovative blockchain solutions.
Pantera is all in on the blockchain game, seeking startups that are reshaping how we interact with money. They're not just focused on the U.S., either - 47% of their capital goes global.
Here are some areas where Pantera focuses its investments:
- Crypto & Blockchain Enthusiasts: Pantera is looking for startups that are pushing digital assets and innovative blockchain solutions to the forefront.
- Fintech Innovators: Pantera invests in startups that are reshaping how we interact with money.
- Consumer & Enterprise Fusion: Pantera loves startups that bridge the gap between consumer needs and enterprise solutions.
A Bright Future
Miami's vibrant VC ecosystem is thriving, and it's no surprise why. With a plethora of angel investors and venture capital firms calling the city home, entrepreneurs have a wealth of resources at their fingertips.
Starlight Ventures is one such firm, dedicated to funding world-changing technologies that use science to solve the world's most pressing challenges. They invest in sectors like energy transition, industrial biology, and space technology.
Their strategy involves collaborating with audacious, relentless scientists and founders who confront significant global challenges head-on. This approach has led to investments in companies like Blue Energy, AtmosZero, and Thea Energy.
Krillion Ventures, on the other hand, is on the hunt for "one in a krillion" gems. They're after audacious teams turning their brilliant ideas into trailblazing companies, particularly in HealthTech, Real Estate, and Finance.
Zelkova Ventures has made 95 investments, often partnering with budding businesses in their earliest stages. They pour in their expertise to shape market leaders, making their involvement more than just capital – it's about co-creating success stories.
Here are some key sectors that these Miami-based angel investors are focusing on:
- Starlight Ventures: Energy transition, industrial biology, space technology, and next-generation platforms.
- Krillion Ventures: HealthTech, Real Estate, and Finance.
- Zelkova Ventures: SaaS, RetailTech, Environmental Technologies, and more.
These firms are not just backing companies, they're allies, working hand-in-hand with founders to propel them towards impactful, sustainable futures. If you're a visionary entrepreneur building a groundbreaking company, Miami might be the perfect place to launch.
Other Notable Firms in Florida
Miami's thriving tech and VC scene is not limited to its top 15 venture capital firms. Other notable firms in Florida include those that are making a name for themselves in the startup ecosystem.
Miami earned its 'Silicon Beach' nickname, thanks to its booming tech and VC scene, which is home to over 250 firms. Many of these firms are providing capital and know-how to startups.
Some of these notable firms are likely to be found in Miami, given the city's reputation as a hub for venture capital.
Miami's Power Players
Miami's Power Players are a driving force behind the city's thriving startup scene. They're not your typical Wall Street investors, but rather vibrant and varied individuals who bring a unique energy to the table.
The city's VC scene is home to a diverse range of firms, each with its own expertise and resources. Whether you're a pioneer in HealthTech or a disruptor in FinTech, there's a VC firm in Miami that can help you thrive.
Miami's Power Players are passionate about supporting innovative startups, and it shows in the city's growing economy.
Montrose Partners
Montrose Partners is a force to be reckoned with in Miami's investment scene. They're a private investment power-player with a focus on Public Markets Venture Capital opportunities.
Montrose has a diversified interest in various sectors, including Biotechnology, AI, and Robotics. They're on the lookout for high-growth, early-stage startups with strong local leadership and a significant community footprint.
Their investment range is substantial, typically spanning from $1 million to $25 million. This allows them to take a significant stake in the companies they back, which is crucial for their growth.
Montrose champions access to public markets, empowering startups to expand their reach and form prolific partnerships. They're particularly drawn to startups where management is financially invested and committed to the brand's growth.
Here are the types of startups that Montrose is keenly interested in:
- Startups where management is financially invested and committed to the brand's growth.
- Startups making waves in Biotechnology, Robotics, AI, or Medical Devices.
- Community-centric companies with a significant local presence.
Las Olas
Las Olas is a force to be reckoned with in Miami's startup scene. Las Olas Venture Capital has made 50+ investments, with a focus on enterprise software, digital healthcare, and fintech.
They typically invest in startups that have already shown product market fit to help them scale. This is evident in their successful exits and ongoing support for companies like Cypress and CarePredict.
Las Olas Capital, a separate entity, focuses on AI, Digital Infrastructure, SaaS, Edtech, Healthtech, and Fintech investments. Their investment stages include seed and Series A funding rounds.
Las Olas Venture Capital was founded in 2015, and their early-stage investment firm engages in seed and Series A funding rounds.
Miami
Miami is a vibrant city with a thriving VC scene that's far from the typical Wall Street image. Miami Angels is a large angel investing network that invites its members to collectively invest between $200,000 and $500,000 in seed-stage companies. They've invested over $22 million in 60+ companies, including Fintech startup Marco and connected car technology company Mavi.
Miami Angels has a robust group of over 150 angel investors, many of whom are seasoned entrepreneurs. They prioritize businesses that can potentially dominate vast addressable markets within the United States.
The group loves teams that radiate diversity, coupled with industry-specific experience and resilience. They're looking for companies with a fresh approach that stands out from the competition.
Miami Angels' sweet spot is early-stage, post-launch SaaS companies that use technology as a core part of their product or service. They also focus on companies that operate within the United States and aim to address significant market pain points.
Here are some key investment focus areas for Miami Angels:
- Tech-Powered SaaS Startups: early-stage, post-launch SaaS companies that use technology as a core part of their product or service
- U.S.-Based Operations: companies that operate within the United States and aim to address significant market pain points
- Diverse & Experienced Teams: teams that radiate diversity, coupled with industry-specific experience and resilience
8. Lab Miami
LAB Miami Ventures is a powerhouse in Miami's startup scene, having been nestled in the vibrant Wynwood neighborhood since 2012. They've carved a niche for themselves by accelerating early-stage real estate and construction technology companies.
With a rich history of crafting companies from idea to exit, LAB Miami Ventures passionately dives into the pool of startups seeking not just funds, but strategic guidance and a foundational team. They aim to construct tomorrow's tech leaders.
Here are the types of startups that LAB Miami Ventures is particularly interested in:
- PropTech Innovators: They crave startups that are sculpting the future of real estate and construction through breakthrough technological innovations.
- Early-Stage Creators: They lean towards nurturing startups in their infancy, providing a safe cocoon for initial development, capital, and strategic molding.
- Tech Builders with a Twist: Startups that blend tech with a distinctive, creative edge, particularly those shaking up traditional models in property and construction, capture their interest.
Boldstart
Boldstart is a venture capital firm that has been around since 2010. They're based in Miami and New York, which is a great testament to the city's growing influence.
They specialize in investing in developer-first software and SaaS companies. This means they look for startups that have a strong focus on software development and scalability.
Boldstart is known for being very hands-on with the startups they invest in. They help these companies achieve product-market fit, which is a crucial step in their growth.
Areas of Investment and Notable Deals
Miami Angels, a venture capital firm, has a strong focus on software and EdTech investments. They prefer startups that are 2-3 years old and have a preference for founders with a specific profile.
Their typical investment size is between $1-5 million dollars, with an average startup value of 5-10 million dollars. The fund usually invests in rounds with 2-3 partakers.
Some notable deals include a $12 million investment in SquareOne Capital Corp and a $650,000 investment in an undisclosed company.
Areas of Investment
Miami Angels invests in a variety of areas, including software, apps, mobile apps, EdTech, and SaaS.
Their main department is located in the Miami, and the fund's country of origin matches its most frequent investment country, the United States.
The fund has a preference for startups that are 2-3 years old and has invested in thriving areas such as Education and Events.
Some notable portfolio startups of the fund include Blanket, Nearpod, and WhereBy.Us.
Here are some of the fund's investment areas:
- Software
- Apps
- Mobile Apps
- EdTech
- SaaS
Notable Deals
Miami Angels have been actively involved in various funding rounds, with investments ranging from $650K to $12M. They've supported companies in industries such as finance, software, and veterinary services.
One notable deal was a $12M investment in a company that focuses on commercial lending, document management, and financial services. This deal was finalized on March 19, 2024, in Miami, Florida.
The table below highlights some of the notable deals involving Miami Angels:
Miami Angels have also invested in a software company focused on veterinary services, securing a $3M funding round on July 7, 2023, in Denver, Colorado.
Fuel
Fuel Venture Capital is a Miami-based firm that's making waves in the startup world. They've invested in over 30 portfolio companies across various sectors, including fintech, marketplace, and enterprise SaaS.
Their founder-focused approach emphasizes close collaboration with entrepreneurs to drive innovation and growth. This hands-on approach has helped companies like Taxfyle, a fintech platform, and eMerge, a communication platform, get off the ground.
Fuel Venture Capital has a significant presence in the startup ecosystem, having invested over $400MM in more than 33 globally-dispersed companies. They're not just throwing money at startups; they're providing a roadmap for exponential growth.
Here are some key characteristics of the types of companies they're looking to invest in:
- Exponential Growers: They're seeking startups that aim for more than just linear growth.
- Disruptive Techies: Fuel Venture is particularly interested in tech-driven startups that want to shake things up.
- Broad Spectrum: While tech is their focus, they're open to ideas from various industries.
Best Firms for Women Entrepreneurs
If you're a woman entrepreneur looking for a supportive community, consider reaching out to firms like Ellevation Capital, which has invested in several female-founded startups.
Ellevation Capital focuses on investing in diverse founders, including women, and has a strong track record of successful exits.
In Miami, firms like Social Capital are making waves by investing in women-led startups.
Social Capital has invested in companies like Zola, a wedding planning platform founded by two women.
Other notable firms that support women entrepreneurs include Next Play Ventures and Mucker Capital.
These firms are committed to creating a more inclusive investment landscape for women entrepreneurs.
By partnering with firms like Ellevation Capital, Social Capital, Next Play Ventures, and Mucker Capital, women entrepreneurs can access valuable resources and connections.
These firms have a proven track record of supporting women-led startups and can help you take your business to the next level.
Other Cities and Regions
In Miami, angel investors are a vital part of the startup ecosystem, but they're not the only game in town. Cities like New York and San Francisco have their own thriving angel investor communities.
Angel investors in these cities often have a strong network of connections and resources, making it easier for entrepreneurs to access funding and guidance. In fact, a study found that startups in these cities received an average of $500,000 in funding from angel investors.
Other regions, like Silicon Valley, are also hubs for angel investors, with many notable investors like Steve Wozniak and Reid Hoffman calling the area home.
VenVelo (Orlando)
VenVelo (Orlando) is based in Winter Park and focuses on early-stage startups with a high touch approach to mentoring.
They look for startups with early revenue and an openness to coachability to set up effective go-to-market strategies and mentoring.
VenVelo has invested in companies like Fintech startup FattMerchant, live multistreaming platform Switchboard Live, and biotech startup Vigilant Biosciences.
Las Olas, Ft. Lauderdale
Las Olas, Ft. Lauderdale is a hub for early-stage investment firms. Las Olas Venture Capital is one such firm that focuses on enterprise software, digital healthcare, and fintech, making investments in companies that have already shown product market fit.
This firm has made over 50 investments with successful exits, providing both financial backing and strategic support to help companies scale their operations. They prefer startups with existing product market fit to help them achieve growth.
Las Olas Venture Capital typically engages in seed and Series A funding rounds, providing strategic support to help companies achieve product-market fit.
Their investment portfolio includes companies like Cypress, an end-to-end testing platform, and CarePredict, a senior healthcare startup.
Broaden your view: Palm Angels Pants Fit
PS27 (Jacksonville)
PS27 Ventures in Jacksonville is a venture capitalist firm that specializes in investments in early-stage startups in SaaS, health tech, e-commerce, and fintech startups.
Their accelerator program supports founders through a year-long process of mastering financial models and refining go-to-market plans. They surround the founder with a team of experienced professionals who work side by side every day to ensure success.
PS27 Ventures provides not only capital but also content designed for startups and connections to industry experts. This comprehensive support helps startups like Docity Health, Hazlnut, and Resility achieve their goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you pay an angel investor?
Angel investors typically take 10-40% equity in exchange for their investment, depending on the growth potential and risk involved. If you're considering angel investment, be prepared to give up a significant portion of ownership in your business.
How do I find angel investors?
Connect with angel investors through angel groups, networks, and events, and also leverage social media and local startup ecosystems to increase your visibility and attract potential investors
What percentage do angel investors want?
Angel investors typically seek 10% to 50% equity in your company in exchange for funding. This significant stake can impact business owners' control and decision-making authority.
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