Entrepreneurs are always looking for ways to fund their startups and local angel investors can be a great source of funding. But how do you find them? We asked experienced entrepreneurs and C-suite executives for their recommendations and came up with these 10 strategies to help you locate local angel investors to invest in your startup.
1. Get to know your local chamber of commerce: Most towns and cities have a chamber of commerce that offers resources of all kinds to local businesses. Depending on the size of your town, the chamber of commerce may have connections with bigger investors and institutions which could help fund your venture.
2. Attend local startup and accelerator events: Startup events are a great way to network with other entrepreneurs and meet potential investors who are interested in funding new businesses. Many startups also give pitches at these events, which can be a great way to showcase your company and attract interest from investors.
3. Join the Angel Investment Network: The Angel Investment Network is an amazing platform for startups and investors, giving you access to investors worldwide. Once you are registered, you just publish your details and investors who see your pitch will directly contact you.
4. Take advantage of online platforms: There has been an explosion of online platforms dedicated to angel investors in recent years. These platforms are a great place to research who in your area might invest in your startup. Fundable.com is an example of a platform with thousands of accredited investors.
5. Network with LinkedIn referrals: LinkedIn is an effective tool for reaching out to established local angel investors. Make sure you have a great LinkedIn profile that is active and up-to-date. Contact mentors and colleagues who can give you endorsements that apply to your business.
6. Reach out on a crowdfunding platform: Crowdfunding is widely shared and can help you raise awareness of your brand and startup. This can make it easily picked up by someone who is interested and ready to invest.
7. Get help from a mentor capitalist: Mentor capitalists are experienced entrepreneurs who will invest their time and resources in early-stage companies. They typically provide mentorship and guidance, as well as financial support. They are often connected to a network of other local angel investors.
8. Ask your audience on social media: Use social media to put your feelers out and ask your followers for leads. People who follow you on social media are already engaged and interested in what you are creating.
9. Use virtual investor networks: Virtual networks like the Angel Capital Association can connect you with thousands of investors at once. You can find high-quality leads more quickly this way.
10. Get connected with incubators: Seek incubators throughout the world that serve your industry and your specific sector. They will know the investors who would be most interested in what you’re doing.
By following these strategies, you’ll increase your chances of finding local angel investors to invest in your startup.
