It’s been awhile since I blogged, due to an enormous time crunch in the last couple of months. But I attended the 25 edition of the Vancouver Angel Forum recently and thought it would be worthwhile for many startups in Western Canada, so I thought I’d whip together a quick post about it.
It was the first time for me and I have to say it was very impressive. This ‘forum’ is put on twice-a-year by Bob Chaworth-Musters, who has been doing this for a decade or more. A labour of love of sorts is my understanding of why this has continued to this day.
Part of the reason for its success and long history is that it is very well organized and attended. Even the venue is professionally staged, with auditorium seating at the SFU Harbour Centre, alongside an exhibit area that is continually busy with companies looking for angel money, and investors looking for good deal flow. Although I’m sure Bob has the stats, I’m sure many a startup has been angel funded from this event, and their are numerous successes to their credit.
33 companies presented, including ActiveConversion, while over 70 active investors attended presentations going on simultaneously in 2 meeting rooms. Along with all the networking in between sessions and in the networking/exhibit area, this made for a very busy day for everyone.
It seems to accomplish its objective. With this many investors, and an application process that screens out non-relevant deals, there seem to be alot of interest among the various parties. Service providers are not allowed, so distractions to both investors and entrepreneurs are avoided. Debriefs for the investors are right after the presentations, with an existing investor from the presenting company (if you have one that is), and a list is built with angels willing to take a further look.
I have heard that the investors are very qualified and deals are done quickly because there has been good success for both sides.
The next Vancouver Angel forum is in November 2009. If you’re looking for investment, or am an investor that wants a venue to invest with other investors who are professional and can add value, I highly recommend you check it out. The website is www.angelforum.org and you don’t have to be in B.C. to take part.