The toughest task for any start-up is the search for funding. But a new breed of venture capitalist, the super angel, could be the answer to your prayers. Here are some suggestions for finding them, and winning them over:
Check out national or provincial organizations, such as New Ventures BC in British Columbia, that provide information on local angel-investment networks.
The return of the angel investor. Super angel Dr. Boris Wertz said many of his introductions come through his established network of other angel investors and business contacts. People also contact him through his LinkedIn profile, his website, or his e-mail address. "Anyone who is a serious entrepreneur starts hanging out in the tech community, going through them, meeting the right people, getting advice, still building the product," he said.
Know that the most important selling point is you, the entrepreneur. "The entrepreneur is always the most important investment criteria," Dr. Wertz said, "and how convinced I am that he or she will have the passion, the smarts and the dedication to make it work over a longer period of time and through the ups and downs."
Build a relationship. Super angels may also spend a period of months getting to know the business owner and the product before taking the plunge financially. Dr. Wertz also does his own research, seeking out exciting new companies with potential himself.