Your startup has launched, you’ve built a team, and sales are going well. You’re ready to take your company to the next level, but you need cash in order to grow. An angel investor might be exactly what you need. What makes angel funding so beneficial? In this post, we’ll explore four advantages of angel funding for startups.
What is an Angel Investor?
First, what is an angel investor, exactly? An angel investor is an individual (or in some instances, a group of individuals) providing capital to a business in exchange for an equity position in the company.
For startups, an angel investor can fill the gap between small-scale friends and family financing and more traditional financing options such as venture capitalists or business loans.
Many angel investors consider providing capital as just one aspect of their investment. They want to be instrumental in helping startups grow to the point of profitability. In fact, angel investors are increasingly looking to do more than simply write a check. They are interested in aligning themselves with a company they can feel passionate about and are looking to take on a more active and hands-on role within the business.
Angel investors who bring money and experienced advice to a startup are invaluable — often, an angel’s expertise and guidance plays a key role in driving the startup towards success.
Advantages of Angel Funding
The money and experience that angel investors bring to the table translates into four important benefits for startups:
- Flexible and lower-risk financing
- Guidance and mentorship
- Credibility and networking
- Ideas and growth opportunities
1. Flexible and Lower-Risk Financing
Angel investors understand the world of startups. They know that they need to take a long-term view. As a result, angel funding is more flexible and lower-risk than traditional loans. For example, unlike a business loan, angel-invested capital does not have to be paid back if the business flounders. Additionally, angel investors usually require less-formal investment criteria, so they can be more open to negotiation when coming to terms.
Most importantly, angel investors are often looking for a personal business opportunity as well as a financial investment. So they’re personally invested as well as financially invested.
2. Guidance and Mentorship
Angel investors with experience in your industry can provide invaluable guidance and insight. From offering input on business planning and sales strategy to advising on operations and staffing issues, an angel investor can assist your startup in a variety of ways.
3. Credibility and Networking
Angel investors are typically well-known experts in their fields, so they bring a level of credibility to your startup. People who have built a name for themselves often end up being a catalyst for the growth of a business.
Additionally, angel investors come with contacts who can lend their expertise and advice. They’ll also often refer vendors that they’ve previously hired successfully who have proven experience in your business.
4. New Ideas and Growth Opportunities
Another way angel investors benefit startups is by helping to formulate new ideas, identify additional opportunities, and assist with bringing on other investors or sourcing seed money for new ventures. Angel investors are often seeking to actively work to grow and expand the business.
Because of these benefits, startups with an experienced angel investor on board can gain a significant edge over the competition. Angel investors that bring both capital and expertise to the table provide numerous advantages. And an investor who can bring all of the above benefits to the table, along with a genuine passion for the business, will be invaluable in helping your startup achieve success.
Interested in learning how we can help your startup succeed? Contact Us.
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