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.
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To be an angel, you need to qualify as an accredited investor, defined by the SEC as $1 million of net worth or annual income over $200,000. (I'm simplifying – the real definition is a bit more complex – but it gives you the idea.)
The specific odds sound daunting: of every 40 companies that apply for financing from angel investors, only one will receive it, and for venture capital investments, the odds drop to one out of 400. But that is because most 'companies' that seek investors are really just an ill-prepared founder.
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.
Money you invest as an angel investor is not tax deductible like a charitable gift. It's more complicated. However, since we wrote this piece in late 2021, there have been several states that have come out with “angel tax credits” - which means that there may be state level tax opportunities.
You can find Angel investors on Linkedin, Angellist and Crunchbase. You can also go to Angel networks such as Keiretsu (search on Google based on your location). Another method is to participate in startup incubation, acceleration programs and competitions, angels are invited to these programs.
Here are a few tips: Do your research. Before you start reaching out to potential investors, it's important to do your homework. Use your networks. Attend industry events. Another great way to find potential investors is to attend industry events. Join an angel group. Use online resources.
Corporate Bodies: Corporates interested in investing in startups as angel investors must demonstrate a minimum net worth of INR 10 crore. This requirement ensures that only entities with substantial resources are involved in the early stages of business development.