justinng77 wrote:Hi,
Just wondering if anyone knows the requirement to become an angel investor and where could I join to become one myself?
I would like to expand my current portfolio to invest in new startups or in any potential business.
Any help offered is deeply appreciated. Thanks
Rgds,
Justin
Quite honestly, the only "requirement" is that you have some money that you can put into an investment. A small amount of networking will quickly get you known in business circles since many businesses are looking for angel investors because banks don't loan to startups.
I think your problem, if you are new at this game, is twofold. First, you must know how to do a due diligence investigation of the company you are interested in. At a very minimum this means being able to read and analyze audited financial statements, assess the quality and experience of the management team, and assess the market conditions and industry in which the business will be operating.
One also needs to understand exactly what the cash will be used for. For example, in my business, I need capital for growth to cover salaries and expenses against the time lag (sometimes significant) for payment by my clients. Others may need it for R&D, equipment, marketing, etc. You will also need to decide at what stage you want to get into a business and how much cash you can/will put up... your tolerance of risk may be different for a $200,000 investment versus a $2,000,000 investment.
Second, your expectations of the return you want (the deal) in exchange for the cash you put up should be in line with other similar investors. Asking for too little shorts yourself, given the risks involved, and asking for too much insures that not many people will take you up on your offer(s).
Amongst the things to consider is how much equity you want, what the exit strategy will be, the level of control you will exert, and what sort of growth you will accept as good. You probably don't want to invest in commoditized businesses as the competition is fierce and growth is limited.
If you google "angel investor" you will get a lot of articles directed towards businesses... this will give you some idea of what other investors demand. Here is one article oriented towards people who want to invest.
http://hbswk.hbs.edu/item.jhtml?id=2506 ... reneurship
Good luck.