A few angel investors have slipped or fallen from their lofty perch, so entrepreneurs must take great care to validate the character and reputation of every prospective investor. In fact, most angels are pure, but there are some exceptions that may cost you more than an investment: Shark angels. Litigious angels. MORE >>

Entrepreneurs sometimes assume an initial agreement with an Angel is a commitment, so they start spending before any money is received. But due diligence and paperwork take time, and can change everything. The price is the percent of ownership given to the investor, calculated as “investment/post-money valuation.” MORE >>

Ty is an angel investor and startup mentor. But you still may lose potential investors that have nothing to do with your deal, and everything to do with you. Investors expect some amount of hype, and we can put up with that. But until you get to that point, don’t burn your bridges pitching to investors too early. MORE >>

Crowd funding enables entrepreneurs to raise money in relatively small amounts from large numbers of interested investors.  The assumption made by the regulators is that accredited investors have the business experience required to choose winners and can afford to lose the money if they are wrong.  But, is this true? Summary. MORE >>

If you’ve never been to a business plan competition or angel conference, you really should try to find one to attend. But more importantly, they give you the rare chance to hear what potential investors like and don’t like about businesses,  business plans, and pitches. Investors love good teams. MORE >>