Business Angels

Business Angels, also known as “informal private investors”, are private individuals who invest capital in companies during their early stage of development.  In addition they contribute their know-how or experience in company management and  can offer valuable expertise and guidance.  Angels usually seek active participation in the company in which they invest. 

Business Angels can be a substitute for classical bank financing or venture capital which can be difficult to attract at the early stage of a company’s life. They are primarily motivated by return on investment and Business Angel involvement can often help secure access to venture capital or classical bank loans.

The average initial investment by Business Angels ranges between €50K and €500K.  Business Angels generally invest in the region where they live and in areas in which they have greatest expertise/knowledge.  They may not necessarily look to invest in new technologies, although some specialise in providing finance in such areas.

You may be interested in the Angels Service if your business:

  • Has the potential to be successful and innovative and to achieve significant profits or growth over the next 3-5 years
  • Needs finance to achieve your business aims
  • Has an innovative or unique proposition which distinguishes it from competitors
  • Could be helped by outside expertise

The Angel will normally require an equity stake in your business and may wish to provide a managerial contribution, perhaps as a non-executive director or chairman.


Do I qualify?

While most investors have indicated a preference for  companies with a proven track record, many others are prepared to consider start-ups and restructuring/re-financing of projects with good potential.

Where can I get more information?

The Business Angel Partnership is a joint initiative between Enterprise Ireland, InterTradeIreland and the Irish Business and Innovation Centres.  It is managed by Dublin Business Innovation Centre Limited as part of its ongoing support to start-up and developing enterprises.

For a more detailed understanding of how the Business Angel Partnership can help you please get in touch with your local office.

Dublin and Greater Leinster

Click here to eMail Business Angel Partnership Dublin Tel: +353 1 4100 818/9
Business Angel Partnership, Guinness Enterprise Centre, Taylors Lane, Dublin 8

South

Click here to eMail Business Angel Partnership Cork Tel: +353 21 730 4603
Business Angel Partnership, CorkBIC, NSC Campus, Mahon, Cork

West

Click here to eMail Business Angel Partnership Galway Tel: +353 91 730850
Business Angel Partnership, Westbic, Mervue Business Park,  Galway

South East

Click here to eMail Business Angle Partnership Waterford Tel: +353 51 356300
Business Angel Partnership, South East BIC, Unit 1b Industrial Park, Cork Road, Waterford

or log on to the Business Angel Website  Business Angel Website


Last updated 21/2/2008