After a great deal of networking, research and support from both start-up and community advocates, West Suburban Angels, Inc. has announced its launch and the planning of the first angel presentation forum to investors this fall. Startups from the Midwest will have the opportunity to raise funding and receive support from an elite group of investors.
West Suburban Angels is a nonprofit organization that will present to a small group of angel investors a hand full of companies seeking capital to begin revenue or expand the offering.
The Chicago area has seen the growth of a thriving ecosystem for technology startups. One of the key ingredients for the growth of such an ecosystem has been the presence of more angel investors, angel groups and venture capital firms. To make it simple, entrepreneurs will go and stay where the money is.
Just last year, nearly 400 million dollars were raised between angels and venture capital firms, and nearly 200 digital companies were started, notes Miller. Mindful that these angel groups and start-ups focused only on the city of Chicago and the northern suburbs, the founders and advisors of the West Suburban Angels saw an opportunity.
With no formal angel groups in the western suburbs, the team recognized the opening to contribute and accelerate growth in the start-up community for the entire Chicago metropolitan area.
For additional information regarding the West Suburban Angels, visit their website at www.westsuburbanangels.com. The website provides details on where to find information on how a company can apply for funding, as well as application procedures for individuals interested in becoming investors.
