Media Release
5 March 2012
Angel investors prefer web companies
Investors in start up companies prefer web based software and services according to a recent survey by Angel Association
New Zealand.
Angel investor’s preference for software companies is followed closely by technology hardware and equipment, then
biotech and life-sciences.
Angel Association Chair, Phil McCaw said “around half of angel investors invest more than $30,000 on each deal, with
twenty percent having up to $100,000 to spend.“
“Thirty percent of angels preferred deals involving $250,000 to $500,000 in the first round of funding being sought by
a company. Investing in deals at concept stage with the product and market still needing validation was least popular.
Investors prefer companies with a proven business model and some sales.”
“Angel investors bring expertise with their capital. Over a third of investors are prepared to roll up their sleeves and
get deeply involved in preparing a venture for investment.
The Angel Association surveyed its members including those running seed funds and individuals who are members of formal
networks. New Zealand has half a dozen managed funds investing in early stage ventures and approximately 200 angels
belonging to networks based in Otago, Christchurch, Nelson, Wellington, the Manawatu, Tauranga and Auckland. A quarter
of the members responded to the survey. Industry publication Young Company Finance reported the survey results in the
March 2012 issue.
Angel investors have cumulatively invested $220 million into high-growth companies since 2006, in an average deal size
of $540,000.
ENDS