Hawaii Angels

What is Hawaii Angels?

Hawaii Angels is an angel network group based in Hawaii that catalyzes the growth of early-stage companies through capital investment and coaching. Since their inception in 2002, they have been a pivotal early-stage investment capstone, especially for startups founded in Hawaii's unique island chain.

They support a diverse range of scalable businesses, both in and out of Hawaii, with over $50 million invested in hundreds of startups to date. Their platform serves as a monthly forum that brings together entrepreneurs and investors from Hawaii and beyond.

Founders, particularly those that have initiated their ventures in Hawaii, perceive presenting to the Hawaii Angels as their first chance to pitch to arm's length investors. They offer exclusive invitations to the most promising startups emerging from the state's various accelerator programs, and those with strong post-traction from Hawaii, the mainland USA, and other locations.

The angel network comprises a dynamic cross-section of investors, founders, and successful professionals from various industries. These monthly meetings create opportunities for networking and learning, allowing new founders to interact with seasoned entrepreneurs, angel investors, and VC firms.

It also serves as an arena for both experienced and prospective angel investors to exchange strategies and insights into deal flow while enjoying an informal setting. Their investment process is rigorous, with a Screening Committee reviewing 46 deals monthly, culled from over 500 pitch decks submitted annually.

During their meetings, members get to hear from two startups that are actively raising venture funds, with additional chances to learn about sidecar opportunities presented by the members' individual or associated VC firm deal flows. Following presentations, members engage in follow-up due diligence sessions before making individual investment decisions. Hawaii Angels also partners with venture capital firms and is supported by various organizations, as indicated by the list of annual sponsors on their website.

The group makes it possible for members and stakeholders to get acquainted with their VC partners, who are key supporters of their mission. Hawaii Angels encourages connectivity within Hawaii's startup ecosystem, fostering connections that enable startups to thrive and investors to find promising ventures.