New York City, being the vibrant cultural and financial hub of the United States, presents an ideal environment for aspiring entrepreneurs in search of angel investors. The city boasts a substantial pool of angel funding, with numerous groups specializing in various business sectors.
Within this piece, you will discover valuable insights into the top Angel Investors in New York City and the generous funding opportunities they extend to entrepreneurs. Furthermore, you will gain an understanding of the influential figures shaping the angel investor landscape in the city, along with a glimpse into their noteworthy backgrounds.
Best Angel Investors in NYC
Amidst the plethora of financial prospects that New York City offers, there exists a select group of angel investors and organizations who have demonstrated a distinct passion for the city’s burgeoning startup ecosystem. Presenting the crème de la crème of Angel Investors in New York City.
1. 37 Angels
Beyond their role as an angel investor, 37 Angels goes above and beyond by actively addressing the gender gap prevalent in startup investing through educational initiatives. They offer a comprehensive BootCamp on angel investing, which is readily accessible on their website. Engaging with 37 Angels is a straightforward and user-friendly process, as the group values transparency and strives to foster clear and open communication among all stakeholders involved.
2. Golden Seeds
Golden Seeds distinguishes itself among other angel investor groups by placing a strong emphasis on supporting the success of women entrepreneurs. As one of the nation’s most proactive investment firms, they have invested over $170 million in more than 225 companies. Established in 2005, Golden Seeds firmly believes in the value of comprehensive research, which consistently demonstrates that diverse teams yield superior average returns on equity.
3. HBS Alumni Angels of Greater New York
HBS Alumni Angels, affiliated with the prestigious Harvard Business School, stands as the foremost Angel Investors group in New York City. Boasting a robust network of over 350 angel investors, the firm has collectively invested more than $20 million in a diverse range of 100 early-stage companies. Demonstrating their commitment to fostering direct engagement, the school actively reviews 1-2 pitches on a monthly basis, hosting all presentations in person.
4. New York Angels
The New York Angels Group is dedicated to empowering early-stage founders by providing them with essential resources such as capital, expert guidance, and a robust network of support. Comprised of seasoned professionals, entrepreneurs, operators, and industry experts, the founders of the New York Angels possess the requisite experience to effectively mentor and guide aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, the firm offers an internship program and maintains a special interest group focused on finTech, Blockchain, and Life Sciences, further enriching their engagement with these innovative sectors.
5. BoxGroup
BoxGroup prides itself on being an early-stage investor, often taking the lead in backing promising companies. Renowned for its track record of investing in highly successful ventures such as Plaid, Airtable, and Ramp, the firm seeks out visionary entrepreneurs who possess a unique perspective on the world and the potential to transform its functioning. With BoxGroup’s support, these entrepreneurs are empowered to challenge the status quo and drive meaningful change.
6. Founder Collective
Founder Collective aspires to transcend the role of a mere financial supporter for entrepreneurs; their goal is to become the most closely aligned venture capital fund for founders at the seed stage. The firm strives to be an enduring partner for startups, accompanying them on their journey from the early ideation phase to the pinnacle of success, including initial public offerings (IPOs). Each founder within the collective brings a wealth of experience in building technology-based companies, many of which have achieved notable and successful exits.
7. Roger Ehrenberg
Roger Ehrenberg, a founding member and managing partner of IA Ventures, brings extensive expertise in identifying and supporting companies that leverage data as their key competitive advantage. With a keen focus on data-driven enterprises, Ehrenberg has made notable investments in cutting-edge ventures such as Betr, Stadium Live Studios, and Hang, showcasing his commitment to backing innovative companies at the forefront of their respective industries.
8. Joanne Wilson
Joanne Wilson has enjoyed a diverse and accomplished career spanning various industries. With experience in retail, wholesale, and media, she eventually found her passion in investing and has emerged as a dynamic angel investor with a robust portfolio comprising over 90 companies. Among her notable investments are highly successful ventures such as Food52, Makers Row, and Union Station, reflecting her astute judgment and ability to identify promising opportunities across different sectors.
9. Aamer Abdullah
With years of experience in the investment landscape, Aamer Abdullah has made his mark in the field. He has held significant roles within various companies, including Greenewable Solar and Ribbon Home. Aamer’s personal investments have included ventures such as Pogoseat and BizeeBee, demonstrating his commitment to supporting promising startups. Furthermore, Abdullah is among the founders of M1 ventures, further solidifying his dedication to fostering entrepreneurial success.
10. David S. Rose
David S. Rose, the founder and executive chairman of Gust, boasts an impressive track record of involvement in over 850 equity investments. Recognized as the founder of New York Angels and bestowed with the title of “The Godfather of Silicon Alley” by Business Week, Rose is a highly respected figure in the industry. His extensive knowledge and expertise in startups and investing are further evidenced by his authorship of multiple books, solidifying his reputation as one of the foremost authorities in the field.
11. John Frankel
John Frankel, as the co-founder and managing partner of ff Venture Capital, possesses a wealth of expertise in early-stage investing, accumulated over a span of more than two decades. His investment portfolio includes a diverse range of companies, such as SinglePlatform, Appboy, and Greenhouse, highlighting his keen eye for promising ventures. Frankel’s investment focus centers around cutting-edge domains like drones, cybersecurity, enterprise software, crowdfunding, and other technology-enabled sectors, underscoring his commitment to supporting innovative and transformative enterprises.
12. Nasir Jones
Nasir Jones, widely recognized by his hip-hop alias Nas, emerged as a prominent American rapper and songwriter during the thriving East Coast hip-hop era of the 1990s. Today, Nas has expanded his interests to include active investment ventures. Notably, he has made strategic investments in renowned companies such as Magic Spoon, Altered State Machine, and Everyrealm. In addition, Nas boasts an impressive track record of investing in nine companies that have subsequently achieved successful exits, showcasing his astute business acumen and entrepreneurial acumen beyond the realm of music.
13. Kal Vepuri
Kal Vepuri, the visionary founder and chairman of Brainchild, a distinguished software development firm, has demonstrated his entrepreneurial prowess throughout his career. In addition to his leadership role at Brainchild, Vepuri is an engaged angel investor, with notable investments in companies such as SUKU, Rentlykey, and Volley. Before establishing Brainchild, Kal excelled as a technology entrepreneur, consultant, and institutional private equity investor, further bolstering his comprehensive understanding of the industry and his ability to identify promising opportunities.
14. Gary Vaynerchuk
Gary Vaynerchuk, a prominent figure in the realm of digital marketing, assumes the role of chairman at VaynerX, a progressive media and communications holding company. Additionally, he serves as the CEO and co-founder of VaynerMedia, a full-service agency catering to Fortune 500 clients across its four strategic locations. Beyond his influential leadership roles, Gary has demonstrated his acumen as an investor, with a portfolio encompassing over 60 companies. Among his noteworthy investments are PureWow, Resy, and Slack, underscoring his ability to identify and support promising ventures across diverse industries.
15. Adam Rothenberg
Adam Rothenberg has long been a prominent figure in the New York angel investor community and presently serves as a partner at BoxGroup, a seed-stage venture capital firm located in New York City. Throughout his career, Adam has played a pivotal role in supporting notable companies, including Appboy, Blue Apron, and ClassPass. In addition to his investment activities, he has also played an instrumental role in establishing entrepreneurial organizations such as FirstMark Capital, TechStars NYC, and StartOut, further solidifying his commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurial growth.
16. Tom Peterson
Tom Peterson has been an integral part of the renowned venture capital firm El Dorado since 1986, showcasing his enduring commitment to the organization. With a wealth of experience in both early and later-stage investments, Peterson specializes in identifying promising opportunities within software, service, and communication companies. Prior to his tenure at El Dorado, Peterson served as an investment officer, honing his investment skills and accumulating a vast knowledge base. His lifelong dedication to the field of investing is evident, underscoring his extensive expertise and deep-rooted passion for supporting entrepreneurial ventures.
17. Empire Angels
Empire Angels empathizes with the challenges faced by young entrepreneurs striving to secure funding and establish successful businesses. The founders, all millennials who have achieved personal success, are now dedicated to supporting the growth of early-stage young entrepreneurs. Seeking to revolutionize the conventional approach to angel investing, the firm prioritizes agility, eliminating bureaucratic obstacles, and facilitating swift decision-making processes. With a collaborative diligence approach, Empire Angels aims to redefine the landscape of angel investing, providing aspiring entrepreneurs with efficient and supportive pathways to scale their ventures.
18. Tri State Ventures
Tri State Ventures adopts a discerning approach, exclusively considering startups that possess a secure and distinctive market position protected by proprietary elements. While the firm does not limit its focus to specific sectors, its prior investments span diverse industries such as healthcare, IT products and services, energy, and consumer products. Recognizing the scarcity of funding options for early-stage entrepreneurs, Tri State Ventures aims to bridge this gap by actively supporting and investing in promising ventures at their inception.
19. Arc Angel Fund
ARC Angel Fund operates as a member-led investment fund, specializing in early-stage companies poised for high-growth trajectories. As part of this unique structure, all members actively engage in funding rounds and have the opportunity to personally invest alongside the fund. ARC primarily directs its attention towards software, IT, internet, tech-enabled services, and digital media sectors, aligning its investments with cutting-edge industries and emerging technologies. With a focus on empowering promising startups, ARC Angel Fund brings together a collective of investors committed to nurturing entrepreneurial success.
20. SoundBoard Angel Fund
SoundBoard specializes in investing in early-stage companies, leveraging the diverse perspectives and insights of its eclectic group of investors. This collective wealth of knowledge enhances the decision-making process and contributes to a well-rounded investment strategy. Adopting a collaborative approach, SoundBoard actively engages with entrepreneurs, fostering strong partnerships to drive mutual success. Additionally, the fund seeks investment opportunities in underserved geographies, recognizing the potential for untapped innovation and growth in these regions. By targeting these areas, SoundBoard aims to make a meaningful impact and support promising ventures in emerging markets.
21. JumpStart Angel Network
In close proximity to New York, JumpStart Angel Network operates in New Jersey, comprising a collective of serial entrepreneurs, seasoned business executives, and experienced venture capitalists. Their primary focus lies in investing in early-stage technology companies that exhibit significant growth potential. JumpStart actively seeks investment opportunities within sectors such as Saas, B2B, health tech, medical devices, alternative energy, and cybersecurity, acknowledging the transformative impact these industries can have on the market. With their combined expertise and resources, JumpStart Angel Network strives to support and propel promising ventures at their nascent stages.
22. Chris Dixon
Chris Dixon, a distinguished general partner, plays a pivotal role at Andreessen Horowitz, one of the nation’s largest investment firms. Within the company, he serves as the co-leader of the impressive $350 million crypto fund. Additionally, Dixon’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his own startup ventures, with SiteAdvisor being one of his notable creations. Recognized for his prolific investments in seed-stage companies, he also co-founded Founder Collective, a venture fund focused on nurturing innovative startups. Dixon’s extensive experience and multifaceted contributions make him a valuable force in the investment landscape.
23. Charlie O’Donnell
Charlie O’Donnell, a prominent figure in the bustling NYC startup ecosystem, is widely recognized as an exceptionally accessible early-stage investor. With a track record of working with notable companies like Slack, Appboy (now Braze), and Blue Apron, O’Donnell’s expertise and insights are highly valued in the industry. As the founder and sole partner of Brooklyn Bridge Ventures, a venture fund established in 2013, O’Donnell has been instrumental in providing seed investments to promising consumer and enterprise internet companies. His commitment to supporting and nurturing early-stage ventures has solidified his reputation as a trusted and approachable investor in the startup community.
24. Fred Wilson
Fred Wilson boasts an extensive background in venture capital and currently thrives as an engaged angel investor in New York City. In the late 1990s, he established Flatiron Partners, an early-stage venture fund that made significant contributions to the industry. Presently, Wilson serves as a partner at Union Square Ventures, a globally renowned VC firm known for its remarkable presence. Continuously seeking promising opportunities, Wilson has made recent investments in notable companies such as Blueprint Power and Engagio, showcasing his ongoing commitment to supporting innovative ventures.
25. Jeffrey Finkle
Jeff Finkle has established a profound connection with the investment landscape in New York City, holding prominent roles such as the current chairman of the New York Angels and president/CEO of the International Economic Development Council. With a solid foundation in the venture capital arena, Finkle serves as a venture partner at Osage University Partners, an early-stage venture fund he joined in 2007. Before venturing into the realm of VC, Finkle garnered firsthand experience as an entrepreneur, further enhancing his understanding of the dynamic startup ecosystem. Through his diverse engagements, Finkle continues to contribute significantly to the growth and development of the investment community in New York City.
26. Jalak Jobanputra
Jalak Jobanputra, a founding partner of Future/Perfect Ventures, plays a pivotal role in the early-stage venture capital landscape. With an impressive career spanning over 18 years, Jobanputra has accumulated extensive expertise in venture capital, media, and technology. Her professional journey encompasses notable positions at renowned venture capital firms located in major global cities. Jobanputra’s diverse background and deep understanding of the industry make her a respected figure within the investment community. As a founding partner of Future/Perfect Ventures, she continues to contribute her wealth of experience to nurture and support promising startups.
27. David Tisch
David Tisch, the co-founder and managing partner of BoxGroup, holds a prominent position in the realm of early-stage investments. BoxGroup has an impressive portfolio, having invested in more than 250 companies under Tisch’s leadership. Additionally, Tisch serves as the chairman of Spring, a pioneering commerce platform catering to the Gen Z demographic. With a dynamic career spanning multiple startup ventures, he has played a pivotal role as the co-founder of TechStars New York and has assumed various other significant roles within the industry. Tisch’s extensive experience and entrepreneurial prowess make him a highly influential figure in the startup ecosystem.
28. Adam Quinton
Adam Quinton holds the position of board member and treasurer at Holy Cross Energy, a prominent solar and sustainable energy company. In addition to his involvement in the energy sector, Quinton has made personal investments in ventures such as LawGo, VenueBook, and Hire an Esquire, reflecting his diverse range of interests. Quinton’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident from his previous roles as the founder and CEO of Lucas Point Ventures and as a former managing director at Golden Seeds. With his multifaceted background and contributions to various ventures, Quinton brings valuable insights and expertise to the table.
