Early stage investors are people and companies who provide start-up businesses funding for their projects, typically when these projects are just beginning and are still in the market research or development stages.
Venture capital involves providing early stage funding to growing companies with promising potential, while angel investing typically involves one or a few individuals making a personal investment in a business in exchange for equity. Both methods of investment carry risks, but also offer potentially high returns.
Not everyone gets to this stage, but those who do are generally categorized into three types: personal investors, angel investors, and venture capitalists. Knowing the stages and types of investors is essential, not just for people who are diversifying their portfolios.
In the Shark Tank setting, entrepreneurs appear on a national television show to pitch their businesses to the sharks, a group of well-established angel investors. Each investor then decides whether to invest in the pitched businesses and, if so, negotiates the investment terms.
Angel investing is only suitable for those with stable income streams and minimum investable assets of $1 million — $2 million. Consider if: You have at least six months of living expenses set aside in savings as an emergency cushion. Investing surplus minimizes financial disruption if some startups fail.
How to pitch angel investors Understand your business and market. Craft your pitch. Showcase your financials. Highlight your team. Know your ask.
Angel investors typically seek a 10%-30% equity stake in a company. This percentage is negotiated based on your startup's valuation, the funding amount and the perceived risk. It's essential to strike a balance that reflects your company's current value and future potential.
Close acquaintances, angel investors, investment firms, and other organizations or companies are all excellent options depending on the situation. However, before choosing a silent partner in business, you should also vet these people or organizations very carefully.
Individual Investors: To qualify as an angel investor, an individual must possess net tangible assets of at least INR 2 crore, excluding their principal residence. Additionally, they should have experience in early-stage investments, be a serial entrepreneur, or have a minimum of 10 years in a senior management role.