Angel Investors: Who They Are and Why They're More Valuable Than Just a Check

So, what exactly is an Angel Investor? An angel investor is a high-net-worth individual who gives early-stage startups cash before they’ve made it big. In return, they typically get equity (a piece of your company pie) or convertible debt (basically, a loan that turns into shares later). Think Shark Tank, but with fewer cameras and more meetings in coffee shops.

Why are they called “angels”? Because they take risks when no one else will. Unlike big venture capital firms that often wait for a company to show traction, angels are down to bet on potential. They invest in your vision, your hustle, and your ability to turn “just an idea” into the next big thing. Wings not included, but vibes immaculate.

Who are these people? Well, our Founder & CEO Daniella Pierson is one! They are often former founders, tech execs, or successful business folks with a little extra cash and a passion for startups. They might invest solo or as part of an “angel network”—a group that reviews and funds pitches together (kind of like book club, but with spreadsheets).

How much do they invest? Typically anywhere from $10K to $250K in early rounds, though some angels drop even bigger bags. The goal? Help get you off the ground so you can build, test, and maybe attract bigger investors later on.

A quick reality check: Yes, angels are amazing—but they’re still investors. They’ll want updates, equity, and a roadmap. So before you accept their money, make sure your vision matches theirs. After all, if you’re building a spaceship, you don’t want a co-pilot who only believes in hot air balloons

Added benefits from these investors: Connections? They've got plenty. angels want a big return, and therefore are usually open to giving intros to other investors or strategic partners to ensure their investment is on the right track. Angel investors can also be part of a larger VC round, and some entrepreneurs will actually take smaller checks (like $25k) from people who could add value from stuff like: a big following, celeb power, connections, etc.