Country Roads Angel Network

What is Country Roads Angel Network?

The Country Roads Angel Network (CRAN) is West Virginia's first accredited angel investment network, established to support the entrepreneurial ecosystem within all 55 counties of the state. As an angel network, CRAN offers accredited investors opportunities to invest in and mentor West Virginia based start-ups, aiming to generate financial returns and to fill a crucial gap in early-stage financing for local entrepreneurs.

In 2019, a group of West Virginia executives recognized the need for angel funding in the region to aid local business growth and innovation.

This vision led to the creation of CRAN, which facilitates connections between entrepreneurs and experienced investors, who bring a wealth of knowledge from leading start-ups and established companies across various industries including agriculture, tourism, arts, consumer goods, life sciences, and technology.

The network insists on a nexus to West Virginia for the businesses they support, although it does not restrict the type or area of business. To this end, CRAN has received support from the Massey Family Foundation, One Foundation, and a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA), managed by New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA), enabling the network to thrive even through challenging times like the pandemic.

By July 1, 2023, CRAN has grown to 32 accredited investors and has transitioned to an independent entity. Furthermore, as a member of the Angel Capital Association (ACA), CRAN's investors gain access to a broad range of ideas and professional knowledge, which helps in improving returns and advocating for policies that benefit angels and start-ups. While not a direct funding source, the ACA membership provides CRAN and its entrepreneurs an insight into how angels think and operate, enhancing the investment process.