Some angel investors choose to invest through LLCs rather than as individuals. Generally, passively investing through an LLC rather than as an individual offers no tax advantages.
The tax laws that govern non-profits (such as pension funds) that often invest in VC funds make it difficult for those funds to invest in LLCs. Professional investors also generally want to see you giving stock options to employees which is much easier to do with a C-corporation (more about that below).
Different LLCs can have very different fundraising needs, and there are many different options and types of investors for raising capital that an LLC's members can consider. You can consult with a legal or financial advisor for more context on what types of funding might be most appropriate for your LLC.
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.
Different LLCs can have very different fundraising needs, and there are many different options and types of investors for raising capital that an LLC's members can consider. You can consult with a legal or financial advisor for more context on what types of funding might be most appropriate for your LLC.
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.
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.
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.