Meta Description: Read about my experiences as an angel investor with Angel Academe, focusing on what I seek in startups and supporting female founders.
Introduction
Angel investing has long been a critical component of the startup ecosystem, providing the necessary capital and mentorship that early-stage companies need to thrive. However, the landscape has been predominantly male-dominated, limiting opportunities for female founders and investors alike. In this blog post, I will share my personal journey as a female angel investor in the UK, my experiences with Angel Academe, and how initiatives like Oriel IPO are revolutionizing investment opportunities.
The Beginning of My Angel Investing Journey
Three years ago, I attended a lunch event organized by Angel Academe, a network dedicated to empowering female angel investors in the UK. Prior to this, my investment experience was limited to traditional avenues like savings, pensions, and property. My background in large corporates provided a stable foundation, but I was eager to explore more dynamic investment opportunities.
Meeting Sarah Turner and Angel Academe
At the lunch, I met Sarah Turner, the Co-Founder of Angel Academe. Surrounded by seven other female entrepreneurs, I was struck by the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and the glaring inequalities in investment. Sarah shared insights about the investment landscape, highlighting that despite women controlling over 52% of the world’s wealth, they are significantly underrepresented as investors.
The Landscape of Female Angel Investors in the UK
The statistics paint a concerning picture of gender disparity in angel investing:
- YouGov (2018):
- 52% of women have never held an investment product compared to 37% of men.
- 21% of women hold at least one investment versus 35% of men.
Only 13% of women feel knowledgeable about investing, compared to 26% of men.
UK British Angels Association:
- Merely 14% of angel investors in the UK are women.
These numbers underscore the need for initiatives that support and educate female investors, fostering a more inclusive investment environment.
Building Confidence Through Education
Determined to bridge the confidence gap, I joined Angel Academe to gain a deeper understanding of angel investing. The network offered a plethora of educational resources, including workshops on evaluating pitches, understanding legalities, and navigating tax implications related to SEIS/EIS schemes.
Networking and Mentorship
Angel Academe boasts a network of over 400 registered angels, predominantly women, who provide invaluable mentorship. Engaging with seasoned investors allowed me to broaden my knowledge and develop a support system where I could seek advice without judgment or pressure to invest.
My First Investment Experience
After a year of education and networking, I felt ready to make my first investment. I chose EnterpriseAlumni, a tech company that had secured clients like SAP, Nestle, and Pearson. What intrigued me was how a 13-person business managed to attract such prestigious clients.
Due Diligence and Decision-Making
Working alongside other angels, we conducted extensive due diligence, examining the company’s legal standing, market potential, and product viability. This collaborative approach not only ensured a thorough evaluation but also boosted my confidence in making informed investment decisions.
Supporting Female Founders
Angel Academe’s focus on supporting startups with at least one female founder is pivotal in addressing investment inequalities. According to the Beauhurst Report (December 2019), companies with female founders receive only 9% of investment, despite holding 22% equity. Furthermore, Crunchbase data reveals that 89% of VC money goes to all-male teams, 8% to mixed teams, and a mere 3% to all-female teams.
The Impact of Diverse Investing
Research by Boston Consulting Group (2019) highlights that female-led teams generate higher revenue per dollar invested compared to their male counterparts. Diverse investor groups contribute to more equitable funding distribution, fostering innovation and growth across various sectors.
The Role of Oriel IPO in Revolutionizing Investment
Platforms like Oriel IPO are instrumental in democratizing investment opportunities for female angel investors in the UK. Launched in early 2024, Oriel IPO is an online investment marketplace that connects startups with investors through SEIS/EIS tax incentives, eliminating commission fees and providing educational resources.
Oriel IPO’s Unique Selling Propositions
- Commission-Free Funding: Facilitates direct connections between startups and investors without the burden of additional costs.
- Curated Investment Opportunities: Ensures that listed startups meet specific criteria, enhancing the quality of investment options.
- Educational Resources: Empowers investors with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, bridging the confidence gap highlighted earlier.
Conclusion
My journey as a female angel investor in the UK has been both challenging and rewarding. Through Angel Academe, I have gained the education, mentorship, and confidence necessary to support and invest in innovative startups led by female founders. Moreover, platforms like Oriel IPO are playing a crucial role in leveling the playing field, making investment more accessible and equitable.
Call to Action
Ready to take the next step in your angel investing journey? Visit Oriel IPO to explore curated, tax-efficient investment opportunities and join a community dedicated to empowering female angel investors in the UK.
