Why Don’t More People Make Angel Investments?

Just in case you have not heard the news, almost anyone can be an angel investor. See What Qualifications are Required to be an Angel Investor for further details. We also explored Why Angel Investors Fund Startups in another article.

What inspires people to become angel investors? I will examine some key reasons below.   

They are Looking for an Extraordinary Return on Investment (ROI)

According to Techcrunch.com, Angel Investors can expect to earn a gross multiple of 2.5X their investment in about four years. That is a 250% ROI. Investors that are comfortable with the risks of angel investing may be able to enjoy this type of return.

They Want to Become a Mentor

They relish in the idea of being a mentor to the younger generation of startups. If you have the income and you want to make this type of impact, maybe start making angel investments.

They are Business-Minded Entrepreneurs Who Want to Network

If you’ve made it far enough in your professional career to have the time and money to consider investing, then you are probably already pretty good at networking. angel investors take this to the next level. You can gain unique opportunities to network with people from a totally different perspective. When you are at a networking event, people will find you to pitch ideas.

They Care About Innovation

High-tech angels often care just as much about ROI as they do about introducing high-tech and innovative solutions into the world. These investors might even care more about the mission or impact of a company. If you want to make a difference in the world of medical tech, fintech, or any other industry that has the potential to make a huge impact, then you should consider making angel investments.

They are Looking for Something New

Angel investing is an easy way to give you access to the world of entrepreneurship. This often includes access to new ideas, events, and opportunities. Boredom was one of the reasons I quit my job as a CFO to become a full-time entrepreneur. I have not been bored a day since that decision!

But only 8% of the people that can make angel investments actually do it according to angelcapitalassociation.org. Why?

We have identified several challenges associated with angel investing, including:

-How do I select angel investments to evaluate?
-How can I screen angel investments that interest me?
-How do I monitor my angel investments?
-How can I help my angel investments succeed?
-How do I value an angel investment?
-When will we receive returns on this investment?
-When can I do if the founders you funded wants to quit?
-When can I do if the business fails?

We will address these concerns in future posts. Ultimately you will need to decide whether the benefits of being an angel investor outweigh the risks.

Are you interested in investing in startups today, but are struggling with some of the concerns listed above?  Learn how we can help, email info@OmegaAccelerator.com.

Are you looking for angel investors or accredited investors for your business? Contact us today, funding@omegaaccelerator.com 

Sources:
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/12/why-dont-more-people-make-angel.html
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/09/what-qualifications-are-required-to-be.html
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/09/why-angel-investors-fund-startups18.html
www.angelcapitalassociation.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rencarlton 
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/RenCarlton

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmxQWgUDlPJo0IHCIa6SzrQ
https://omegaaccelerator.com/

https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/
https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/09/funding-session-with-ren-carlton.html


Disclaimer:  This does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service.  We are not offering any legal, investment, tax, or medical advice.  Please consult the appropriate professional before doing anything you learn from the content posted on any of our digital properties.  All stories are based on true events, but are altered to protect the identity of the individuals involved.

Live Pitch Event - Ferndale, Michigan - Money for a Startup - Find up to $5 Million of Funding from Angel Investors - Ren Carlton

Pitch your business ideas directly to angel investors!  Ren Carlton will host the event.

Location

Incubizo
1938 Burdette
Ferndale, MI 48220

Date and Time

Wednesday, December 18, 2019, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM, Eastern Standard Time

Schedule 

1:00 - Registration Opens
1:30 - 4:00 Pitches

This is an invitation-only event.  If you would like to pitch your business, please send us your 45 second pitch video as soon as possible. Click here for instructions.

Meet our Hosts

Ren Carlton

Ren Carlton has spent his career starting, growing, selling, and funding businesses. After graduating from Oakland University, Ren earned his CPA license and served as the CFO of a Tier 1 manufacturing company. His passion for business led him to leave his CFO position to pursue several entrepreneurial opportunities. Ren now actively funds, launches, grows, and sells businesses. One of his key business priorities is to encourage and help entrepreneurs pursue bold, fearless goals. Along the way, Ren hosted an award-winning business reality network radio show and wrote Profitpreneurship: Creating a Business that Produces Outstanding Financial Results.

Haroon Bhatti MBA/MSF

Haroon’s reputation for business success has been earned the old-fashioned way: through hard work, recognizable results, and performance that consistently gives his clients a competitive advantage. Haroon specializes in Brokerage and Valuations for Mainstreet and Lower Middle Market companies. His company’s consulting division helps entrepreneurs develop exit strategies and get their businesses set up to be saleable so they can get the highest value in the market. He also owns two successful companies of his own in the Automotive Industry. Additionally, he holds a Masters of Business Administration and also a Masters of Science in Finance.

Aurore Henze, ND

Aurore is the founder of Health-Media Star, which create unique branding platforms healthcare companies. Services include copy-writing, journalistic SEO, major news network PR, internet show, podcast, video, website development, networking opportunities and social media (design and build). Aurore also speaks on a variety of topics: Easy Wellness Tips to Increase Immunity, Overcoming Addiction, Sensible Weight loss, Look Young and Feel Young: Anti-Aging. Aurore attended Clayton College of Natural Health and received a Bachelors of Science / Doctorate of Natural Health. Aurore studied Eastern Medicine, Nutrition, body mind. biology, structural therapy, wellness, alternative therapies, and pain relief.

Send us your video today for a chance to find up to $5 Million of Funding from Angel Investors, funding@omegaaccelerator.com.

Format

Founders that are invited to pitch at our event will have about a minute to setup. After delivering their 45 second pitch, we will ask clarifying questions. Then we will discuss the opportunity privately. After our discussion we will invite the founder back and we may:

-Offer to invest
-Make strategic introduction(s)
-Offer to help find funding
-Other?

If you are unable to attend our live pitch event, we will review your video and follow the process remotely.

Pre-Registration - Reserve Your Spot Early to Receive Preferential Treatment

-Email us Ideas@moneyforastartup.com
-We ask that you use the following email subject line to avoid our spam filters, “MFAS - Pre-Registration - Live Pitch Event - [INSERT YOUR NAME HERE]" to avoid our spam filters.
-Click here for more information about how to send us a winning pitch video

Are you an investor or entrepreneur interested in helping us host a live pitch event?  Click here for more information.

Are you interested in marketing to our participants, audience, and network of over 20,000 funding sources and entrepreneurs?  Email Info@omegaaccelerator.com for details. 

Sources
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rencarlton 
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/RenCarlton

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmxQWgUDlPJo0IHCIa6SzrQ
https://omegaaccelerator.com/

https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/
https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/09/funding-session-with-ren-carlton.html



Disclaimer:  This does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service.  We are not offering any legal, investment, tax, or medical advice.  Please consult the appropriate professional before doing anything you learn from the content posted on any of our digital properties.  All stories are based on true events, but are altered to protect the identity of the individuals involved.

All offers will be contingent upon passing our due diligence process.

How to Invest in Small Businesses - Looking for Angel Investors to Co-Host our Live Pitch Events - Money for a Startup

We are looking for entrepreneurs and investors interested in helping us host our live pitch events. This is a great opportunity for both experienced investors and individuals interested in learning how to invest in small businesses.

Our co-hosts receive the following benefits:
-Equity in our accelerator, giving you ownership in all of our accelerator Participants
-Invitation to invest in cutting-edge ideas, products, and services before they hit the market

-Invitation to host at least one live pitch event  

-Invitation to attend all of our live pitch events
-Access to our network of over 20,000 funding sources and entrepreneurs
-And more!


Contact us to learn more about becoming one of our co-hosts, info@OmegaAccelerator.com .  We are also looking for passive investors.  Please contact us using the same email address if that interests you.


Are you looking for funding?  Click here to learn how you can send us your pitch for a chance to find up to $5 Million of Funding for your business.

Sources
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-invest-small-businesses-looking-angel-investors-ren-carlton
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rencarlton 
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/RenCarlton

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmxQWgUDlPJo0IHCIa6SzrQ
https://omegaaccelerator.com/

https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/
https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/09/funding-session-with-ren-carlton.html


Disclaimer:  This does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service.  We are not offering any legal, investment, tax, or medical advice.  Please consult the appropriate professional before doing anything you learn from the content posted on any of our digital properties.  All stories are based on true events, but are altered to protect the identity of the individuals involved.

How do I Find an Investor? - Creating a 45-Second Pitch Video for Angel Investors - Money for a Startup - Ren Carlton

How do I find an investor? As our workplace becomes more offsite, remote, and virtual, sending a pitch video is becoming one of the standards for talking to investors. The challenge is that your video pitch cannot gauge a response or answer questions. How can you make an effective pitch when sending a video recording is your only way in? After listening to thousands of videos, I have accumulated a number of tips for founders interested in pitching their ideas to investors.

How do I find an investor using a video?  First the basics:

-Decent video and sound quality - this does not need to be perfect, but your video should be easy to see and hear
-If you are going to use slides or text, use illustrations or 10-15 words max per slide
-Practice your pitch until you have it nailed
-Be interesting
-Be concise, clear, and conversational

45-Second Pitch Video for Angel Investors 

-Avoid jargon, complexity, jargon, and platitudes
-Meet the submission requirements (e.g. when we ask for a 45 second pitch video, do not send us a 3 minute pitch video.)
-Upload your video to YouTube, without password protection
-Email your pitch with the YouTube link and the actual video file as an attachment
-We encourage you to send us any supporting information you have about your business with your video pitch, e.g. website, social media links, videos, slide deck, business plan, projections, 1-page executive summary.
-Email address:  Funding@OmegaAccelerator.com
-Email subject:  45 Second Pitch Video - Company Name

Your 45 second pitch video should include the following:

-Your name
-Your company name
-What your business does
-The problem you are solving
-Your solution
-Why we should take you and your solution seriously
-How much progress/traction you have made so far
-How much money you need
-Why you need the money
-Show your product or service, when possible

Send us your pitch today for a chance to find up to $5 Million of Funding for your business, Funding@OmegaAccelerator.com

Do you need help developing your pitch and fundraising strategy? Click here to schedule your one-on-one planning session with me.

Sources

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-do-i-find-investor-creating-45-second-pitch-video-ren-carlton
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rencarlton 
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/RenCarlton

https://youtu.be/KykN9MFlrtw

https://omegaaccelerator.com/
https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/
https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/09/funding-session-with-ren-carlton.html



Disclaimer:  This does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service.  We are not offering any legal, investment, tax, or medical advice.  Please consult the appropriate professional before doing anything you learn from the content posted on any of our digital properties.  All stories are based on true events, but are altered to protect the identity of the individuals involved.

Live Business Pitch Event - Bloomfield Hills, Michigan - Ren Carlton - Money for a Startup - Find up to $5 Million of Funding from Angel Investors

Pitch your business ideas directly to angel investors!  Ren Carlton will host the event.

Location
41000 Woodward Avenue, Suite 350
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304

Time
Wednesday, November 6, 2019, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM, Eastern Standard Time - NOTE:  CONTACT US FOR THE DATE OF OUR NEXT LIVE PITCH EVENT - Info@omegaaccelerator.com

Agenda
1:00 - Registration Opens
1:30 - 4:00 - Pitches

You will have 45 seconds to pitch your business idea.  If we like your idea, we will make you an offer to invest and help you find up to $5 million of additional funding.

Pre-Registration - Reserve Your Spot Today for Preferential Treatment

-Email us Ideas@moneyforastartup.com at least 24 hours before the event.

-The subject of your email needs to be “MFAS - Pre-Registration - Live Pitch Event - [YOUR NAME]" to avoid our spam filters.
-Your email must include your name, business name, phone number, business idea, and the date of the event you will attend.
-When you pre-register, you are welcome to send us supporting information about your business with your pre-registration email, e.g. website, social media links, videos, slide deck, business plan, projections, 1-page executive summary.
-We also accept video and remote pitches via Skype, however, live pitches are preferred.  If you would like to Skype us your pitch, please include your Skype ID in your email.  If you would like to send us a 45 second pitch video, please upload it to Youtube and send us the link.

Are you interested in investing in our startups or helping us host the program?  Email Info@omegaaccelerator.com for details.

Are you interested in marketing to our participants, audience, and network of over 20,000 funding sources and entrepreneurs?  Email Info@omegaaccelerator.com for details.   

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/live-business-pitch-event-bloomfield-hills-michigan-ren-carlton
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/10/5-million-funding-Birmingham-Michigan-RenCarlton.html
https://youtu.be/3RlGbzgTG1c

https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/

https://twitter.com/RenCarlton
https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/



Disclaimer:  This does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service.  We are not offering any legal, investment, tax, or medical advice.  Please consult the appropriate professional before doing anything you learn from the content posted on any of our digital properties.  All stories are based on true events, but are altered to protect the identity of the individuals involved.

All offers will be contingent upon passing our due diligence process.

Meet Two of the Hosts - Live Business Pitch Event - Birmingham, Michigan - Ren Carlton - Money for a Startup

I am pleased to announce two of the hosts of our Live Business Pitch Event in Birmingham, Michigan on Wednesday, October 23, 2019, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM, EST

Mike Boudreau, Director at Morris Anderson, Manufacturing, Management, Refinancing, Performance Improvement, Financial Advisory, Mergers & Acquisitions 

Phyllip Hall, Founder of KidSmart Software Company, gov-tech and ed-tech

Are you interested in being an investor/host for this or future live business pitch events?  Email Info@omegaaccelerator.com for more information.   

Would you like to pitch us live or via video? Click Here for Instructions

https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/10/meet-two-of-hosts-live-business-pitch.html

https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/

https://twitter.com/RenCarlton

https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/

Disclaimer:  This does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service.  We are not offering any legal, investment, tax, or medical advice. Please consult the appropriate professional before doing anything you learn from the content posted on any of our digital properties.  All stories are based on true events, but are altered to protect the identity of the individuals involved.

Find up to $5 Million of Funding from Angel Investors - Live Business Pitch Event - Birmingham, Michigan - Ren Carlton - Money for a Startup

Pitch your business ideas directly to angel investors!  Ren Carlton will host the event.

Location
Partnr Haus
2139 Cole Street
Birmingham, Michigan 48009

Time
Wednesday, October 23, 2019, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM, Eastern Standard Time - NOTE:  CONTACT US FOR THE DATE OF OUR NEXT LIVE PITCH EVENT - Info@omegaaccelerator.com

Agenda
1:00 - Registration Opens
1:30 - 3:00 - 45 Second Pitches
3:30 - 4:00 - Offers Made

You will have 45 seconds to pitch your business idea.  If we like your idea, we will make you an offer to invest and help you find up to $5 million of additional funding.

Pre-Registration - Reserve Your Spot Today for Preferential Treatment

-Email us Ideas@moneyforastartup.com at least 24 hours before the event.

-The subject of your email needs to be “MFAS - Pre-Registration - Live Pitch Event - [YOUR NAME]" to avoid our spam filters.
-Your email must include your name, business name, phone number, business idea, and the date of the event you will attend.
-When you pre-register, you are welcome to send us supporting information about your business with your pre-registration email, e.g. website, social media links, videos, slide deck, business plan, projections, 1-page executive summary.
-We also accept video and remote pitches via Skype, however, live pitches are preferred.  If you would like to Skype us your pitch, please include your Skype ID in your email.  If you would like to send us a 45 second pitch video, please upload it to Youtube and send us the link.

Click Here to meet two of the other hosts

Are you interested in investing in our startups or helping us host the program?  Email Info@omegaaccelerator.com for details.

Are you interested in marketing to our participants, audience, and network of over 20,000 funding sources and entrepreneurs?  Email Info@omegaaccelerator.com for details.   

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pitch-your-business-ideas-directly-angel-investors-ren-ren-carlton
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/10/5-million-funding-Birmingham-Michigan-RenCarlton.html
https://youtu.be/3RlGbzgTG1c

https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/

https://twitter.com/RenCarlton
https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/



Disclaimer:  This does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service.  We are not offering any legal, investment, tax, or medical advice.  Please consult the appropriate professional before doing anything you learn from the content posted on any of our digital properties.  All stories are based on true events, but are altered to protect the identity of the individuals involved.

All offers will be contingent upon passing our due diligence process.

Funding Session with Ren Carlton

I, Ren Carlton, offer one-on-one funding sessions to help you find the funding you need for your business. These funding sessions are typically done via phone or Skype. These sessions include:
-Reviewing your investment materials
-Listening to your pitch
-Evaluating the investment opportunity
-Providing candid feedback
-Offering advice on how to find funding
-Register you in our funding opportunities database, if applicable

I will also consider investing in your business.

Unlimited follow-up meetings

After our initial funding session, you can pitch me again in the future as many times as you want without additional cost until you find funding.

I charge $750 for this service.

100% satisfaction guaranteed or your money back

I also offer a 100% Money-Back Guarantee: If you are not completely satisfied, let me know within seven days of your evaluation and I will give a 100% refund.

Click Here to order your one-on-one funding session with me.

Are you interested in angel investing and helping us fund early-stage businesses? Email info@OmegaAccelerator.com. 

Sources and Links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rencarlton
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/RenCarlton
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmxQWgUDlPJo0IHCIa6SzrQ
https://omegalegacyacceleratorx.com/924-2/https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/
https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/09/funding-session-with-ren-carlton.html


Disclaimer: This does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service. We are not offering any legal, investment, tax, or medical advice. Please consult the appropriate professional before doing anything you learn from the content posted on any of our digital properties. All stories are based on true events, but are altered to protect the identity of the individuals involved.

Ren Carlton's Book - Profitpreneurship: Creating a Business that Produces Outstanding Financial Results

Whether a company is driven by sales, operations, or that app/widget that everyone must have, success is still measured by the bottom line: profits. In Profitpreneurship: Creating a Business that Produces Outstanding Financial Results, entrepreneur Ren J. Carlton shares his extensive knowledge about how to create a business and the steps that must be taken to guarantee its success. Topics covered in this book includes understanding the basics of business development and setting goals, budgets and the importance of dashboards, maximizing the potential of employees, smart financing, and accountability, Carlton's concept of Profitpreneurship makes sense...and results in higher profits. Founder of Dynamic Advisory Solutions (DAS), Carlton introduces his DAS Profit Process, developed by the author to guide companies toward financial growth. The result is a straightforward guide that explores every element pertaining to the expansion of a company's profitability.

Table of Contents – Profitpreneurship

Introduction Creating a Profit-Driven Business
Chapter 1 The Case for Profitpreneurship
Chapter 2 Budgeting – Setting Powerful Targets
Chapter 3 Dashboards – The Numbers That Drive Your Business
Chapter 4 Employee Scorecards – Maximizing Employee Performance
Chapter 5 Cooking the Books – Helping Your Business Shine
Chapter 6 Financing – Securing the Cash Your Business Needs
Chapter 7 Financial Management – Building Your Profit Team
Conclusion Time to Execute!

Click here to purchase your copy of Profitpreneurship today! 

Ren Carlton

Ren Carlton has spent his career starting, growing, selling, and funding businesses. After graduating from Oakland University, Ren earned his CPA license and served as the CFO of a Tier 1 manufacturing company. His passion for business led him to leave his CFO position to pursue several entrepreneurial opportunities. Ren now actively funds, launches, grows, and sells businesses. One of his key business priorities is to encourage and help entrepreneurs pursue bold, fearless goals. Along the way, Ren hosted an award-winning business radio show and wrote Profitpreneurship: Creating a Business that Produces Outstanding Financial Results, which introduces the DAS Profit Process, a methodology he developed to help guide companies towards financial growth. Ren has served on the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants ethics task force, and as a director of the Detroit chapter of the Entrepreneur’s Organization and the Troy Community Foundation. Ren is a frequent presenter to various business groups throughout the United States.

Career Summary

During his career Ren has started and managed four successful businesses. In 2000 he launched Dynamic Advisory Solutions to address the need that businesses large and small have for expert financial support services on an as-needed basis.  Most of these companies have small and unsophisticated accounting departments, frequently just a single individual, to meet the financial management requirements of a growing company. In 2014 Ren launched Rencat, a marketing firm that provides effective, efficient and simple marketing services to small companies. Ren’s team manages a full spectrum of services, from marketing plan development and asset creation, to plan implementation and performance assessment. The following year, Ren entered the medical industry when he founded the Michigan Physician’s Society. MPS offers physicians advice on how start, grow, and sell their medical practice. MPS also represents physicians that pursue business opportunities outside of practicing medicine. Ren launched his most recent venture, Omega Accelerator, in 2016. Omega Accelerator stimulates economic growth and job creation through angel investing. 

Accolades include:

-Leader and Innovator by Lawrence Technological University – 2014
-Crain’s Detroit Business Magazine “40 Under 40” award – 2012
-DBusiness Magazine “30 in Their Thirties” – 2011
-Corp! Magazine “Best of Michigan Business” (Dynamic Advisory Solutions) – 2009
-Small Business Council of America, “Best of Business” (Dynamic Advisory Solutions) – 2009
-Corp! Magazine “Entrepreneur of Distinction” – 2008
-Small Business Administration (SBA) “Small Business Journalist of the Year”; Business Realty Network – 2007

He has achieved fundraising successes in the following business sectors:
-Aerospace
-Art
-Automotive
-Defense
-Dental

-Education Ed-Tech 

-Industrial 

-International
-Engineering and Design

-Finance Fin-Tech

-Franchise
-Healthcare
-International
-Logistics

-Manufacturing

-Real Estate

-Service

-Staffing 

-Technology

-Tool and Die
-Art
-Insurance

Ren offers funding skills in these areas: senior debt, mezzanine debt, SBA loans, family offices, private equity, venture capital, angel investors, pre-seed, seed capital, bridge, Series A+, exit.  He is familiar with Regulation A (Reg A), Regulation D (Reg D), Private Placement Memorandums (PPM), crowdfunding, initial coin offerings (ICO), Initial Public Offerings (IPO), and privately held securities

Interests Include: 

Interests include healthcare, technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, crypto-assets including crypto-currency and bitcoin, blockchain, esports, mobile technologies, healthtech, internet of things, apps, fitness, media, entertainment, gaming, art, music, podcasts, social media, fashion and design, natural language processing, voice user interface technologies, cyber security, edtech, education, online marketplaces, cannabis, insurance, fintech, financial services, distilleries, and breweries.

Keeping a pulse on industry trends and leaders is a key priority for Ren. He sources valuable information and insights from a wide variety of organizations, including Ernst & Young, Google, Deloitte, Price Waterhouse Cooper, Apple, The Wall Street Journal, University of Michigan, Wayne State, Funds for Projects., Inc., and Angel Investor. For inspiration, Ren tracks the activities and content of prominent thought leaders like Jack Welch, Simon Sinek, Tony Robbins, Tim Ferriss, Mark Cuban, and Richard Branson.

Ren is a proud father of two children. His hobbies include golf, tennis, poker, and chess. Ren is also an avid traveler with a long list of trips planned for the future.

Do you need help developing your pitch and fundraising strategy? Click here to schedule your one-on-one planning session with Ren Cartlon.

Learn more about Ren Carlton as his latest venture, Omega Accelerator, through the following links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rencarlton 
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/RenCarlton

https://youtu.be/KykN9MFlrtw

https://omegaaccelerator.com/
https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/
https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/
https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/09/funding-session-with-ren-carlton.html

Why Angel Investors Fund Startups

I have been an entrepreneur in one form or another since I was a teenager. Despite the odds, entrepreneurship has provided me an amazing life. The benefits of being an angel investor and founder go well beyond money.  This includes freedom, flexibility, access, adventure, swag, entertainment, education, notoriety, and more. However, entrepreneurship can also require a lot of time, money, and risks. How can you enjoy the benefits of entrepreneurship and avoid these drawbacks?

You may want to consider becoming a part-time angel investor. According to recent statistics, Angel Investors invest about $25 billion in 70,000 companies every year just in the United States alone.

Because of the new crowdfunding rules, almost anyone can make angel investments.  Generally speaking, however, angel investors have a high net-worth and are looking to invest in equity of a business. Sometimes angels are part of angel investing groups. Others simply possess knowledge about private companies and want to put it to good use.

Below are some of the types of people that invest in startups and small businesses.

Investors Looking for an Extraordinary Return on Investment (ROI)

According to Techcrunch.com, angel investors can expect to earn a gross multiple of 2.5X their investment in about four years. That is a 250% ROI. Investors that are comfortable with the risks of angel investing may be able to enjoy this type of return.

Seasoned Entrepreneurs Who Want to Mentor

They relish in the idea of being a mentor to the younger generation of startups. If you have the income and you want to make this type of impact, consider making angel investments.

Business-Minded Entrepreneurs Who Want to Network

If you’ve made it far enough in your professional career to have the time and money to consider investing, then you are probably already pretty good at networking. Angel Investors take this to the next level. You can gain unique opportunities to network with people from a totally different perspective. When you are at a networking event, people will find you to pitch ideas.

Those Who Care About Innovation

High-tech angels often care just as much about ROI as they do about introducing high-tech and innovative solutions into the world. These investors might even care more about the mission or impact of a company. If you want to make a difference in the world of medical tech, fintech, or any other industry that has the potential to make a huge impact, then you should consider making angel investments.

Looking for Something New

Angel Investing is an easy way to give you access to the world of entrepreneurship. This often includes access to new ideas, events, and opportunities. Boredom was one of the reasons I quit my job as a CFO to become a full-time entrepreneur. I have not been bored a day since that decision!

Are you interested in becoming an Angel Investor?  We can help!  Contact us today,  Info@omegaaccelerator.com

Sources:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-angel-investors-fund-startups-ren-carlton 

https://rencarlton.blogspot.com/2019/09/why-angel-investors-fund-startups18.html

https://youtu.be/qvzLuYe6QC4 

https://www.facebook.com/TheOmegaAccelerator/ 

https://twitter.com/RenCarlton

https://www.instagram.com/omega.funding/

https://www.genglobal.org/united-states-gban/new-research-individual-angels-provides-insights-startup-ecosystem


Disclaimer:  This does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service.  We are not offering any legal, investment, tax, or medical advice.  Please consult the appropriate professional before doing anything you learn from the content posted on any of our digital properties.  All stories are based on true events, but are altered to protect the identity of the individuals involved.

Shark Tank, Y Combinator, And Other Business Accelerators: What Are Your Chances of Getting in?

New startups need to consider working with a business accelerator since they provides a means for a business to grow quickly.  According to Entreprenuer.com (https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/271000), there are more than 170 accelerator programs in the U.S. which offer early-stage startups assistance, mentorship, and/or investment in exchange for equity and/or fees. 

However, getting into a business accelerator is not always easy.  Forbes Magazine has assessed, “Prestigious startup accelerators like Techstars and Y Combinator (YC) have a lower acceptance rate (only 1-2%) than Harvard (5%). (https://www.forbes.com/sites/paulinaguditch/2017/05/30/get-into-a-top-startup-accelerator/#147f68e1725f).” 

In the article entitled, “The Top Seven Startup Accelerators and What Makes Each Unique,” Entrepreneur.com takes on this trending issue.  According to Entreprenuer.com, “Y Combinator remains the largest and best accelerator in the nation, and they have an unparalleled global reputation in the tech world. The traits that set them apart are their incredible mentorship and capital network (https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/300026).”

There is also 500 Startups.  "500 Startups is a seed and early stage venture capital fund, consisting of 4 major funds and 13 micro funds which have invested in startups in at least 60 countries. Funded startups include Udemy and Credit Karma. Exits have included sales to Google and Rakuten (https://www.forbes.com/sites/alejandrocremades/2018/08/07/top-10-startup-accelerators-based-on-successful-exits/#393f78734b3b).” It is a well-established accelerator that has well proven the many benefits of connecting with a startup accelerator.  Several of the companies that have successfully exited their program are now known “worldwide.” 

Then there is Shark Tank, the reality show in which entrepreneurs present their business idea on national television.  According to ABC news.com, the show has reinvigorated entrepreneurship in America.  Contestants pitch their ideas to “sharks in a tank” who are industry moguls that have already established their own empires.  Contestants pitch their business ideas in order to get the sharks to invest in their company.  When more than one of the sharks decides to invest, it can result in a bidding war, thereby increasing the investment.  The show represents a televised accelerator experience for business startups (https://www.cnbc.com/shark-tank/).

What are your chances of getting on Shark Tank?  45,000 people apply to get on the show every year. But less than one percent of applicants get to pitch their idea to the sharks — and of that group, only a handful actually make it on TV. https://www.cnbc.com/2017/03/17/5-tips-for-getting-on-shark-tank-from-people-who-have-done-it.html

Is it worth it?  According to Business Insider, Techstars has achieved a 90 percent overall success rate.  While “Y Combinator” also produces roughly about an 88 percent success rate.  This means at least this percentage of the companies they have worked with are still up and running or have been acquired by other businesses (https://www.businessinsider.com/why-hardly-any-techstars-companies-fail-2013-3).  In fact, just a few of the successful accelerator exits include Airbnb, Twilio and Classpass. 

This is one of the reasons I founded Omega Accelerator.  For more information on how to apply to our accelerator programs, visit http://omegaaccelerator.com/contact/ or email me at Ren@OmegaAccelerator.com

You can also contact me if you would like to advise or invest in our startups.

Learn to Code and Use Your Voice With Codeword by Foxhound.

Foxhound - Ed-Tech, Software, Application - Foxhound LLC is a software company that hopes to empower its users. Currently, Foxhound is focused on helping others learn to code with the power of their voice. Codeword by Foxhound is an application that helps teach people how to code through interactive lessons and coding quizzes.

There are dozens of ways to learn to code. In fact, EdTech spend is poised to reach $252 billion by 2020. So, there’s a lot of options out there. What makes Codeword interesting? Think of an application like Duolingo, an application that helps people learn to speak another language. Codeword is like Duolingo for learning a computer language.

Codeword uses high-tech teaching techniques that have yet to be explored such as using your voice to code to help learners embrace computer programming.

Codeword is an educational tool that will use the latest in voice recognition technology to help expand how we learn to code. Additionally, Codeword will focus on bringing this type of interactive learning to veterans as well as people living with disabilities.

Codeword will utilize a SaaS (software-as-a-service) pricing model. Monthly subscriptions will be offered in tiers. More functionality will be coming as Foxhound develops the MVP.  

The team includes:

Jacqueline Carter - Founder and Principal Software Engineer

• B.A. in Computer Science, Cum Laude - Phi Beta Kappa
• Years of digital marketing experience
• Experience developing and deploying Android and web apps

Samuel Knox - Co-founder and CEO

• Extensive experience in IT
• Experience with content marketing
• Experience deploying applications (see Task Track and Task Track on mobile)

Read what people are saying about Codeword:

“Codeword has the potential to provide real social impact and value.”

“We need smaller, more digestible chunks to improve how we learn to code. It’s exciting to see an app like Codeword attempt to do this. I’d download that app.”

“Education tech is valued at over $8 billion and shows no sign of slowing. The team at Foxhound has a real opportunity to tap into a global market.”

Check out Codeword in action below:

For more information about Codeword, contact me at Ren@OmegaAccelerator.com

Pitch, Elevating Music Experience to a New Level

Pitch – AI, Voice User Interface, Media, Music, Wellness, http://www.pitch.studio – Pitch develops Artificial Intelligence (AI), Natural Language Processing, and Voice User Interface technologies to help music fans sing along with their favorite songs. Pitch figures out how each user learns and harnesses this capability to help the fan memorize the lyrics and follow the melody through fun, one-on-one coaching. Pitch will deploy this platform to other verticals like fitness, public speaking, and more.

For the music industry, Pitch opens a new channel for musicians to interact with their fan base. Pitch plugs into a paradigm shift in the music industry as do-it-yourself producing and music streaming drive up profitability. Goldman Sachs predicted that a double-digit growth tide over the next decade will lift all ships in the space.

The team includes:

Yanay Lehavi – MS in computer science from NYU and 25 years of tech leadership at Goldman Sachs, Bloomberg LP, and PIMCO

Lena Belogolova – BS in neuroscience from MIT, MBA from UCLA, 10 years of consumer behavior experience at Facebook

Vickie Nauman – MBA from London School of Economics, 20 years of experience connecting the music industry with technology companies and startups

David Mann – BS from UCSD in music technology, MS from USC in music composition, 25 years of programming and composition experience


Read what people are saying...

"The team at Pitch is a collection of accomplished go-getters who have proven themselves over the years and are working to bring something new and amazing into a high growth industry, and positively impact hundreds of millions of people all around the world.”

"We have never seen anything like this. My musicians now have a tool to connect with our fan base like never before. My musicians are no longer just an act on the stage, they are now your personal friends and coaches who make your life better, and that’s who they always wanted to be.”

Check out a Pitch demo video below:

For more information about Pitch, contact me at Ren@OmegaAccelerator.com

Finding a Lead Investor

What is a Lead Investor

Are you struggling to secure the funding you need to take your business to the next level?  Maybe you should you consider the benefits of finding a lead investor.  A lead investor is the first person to make an outside investment in your company (simplecrowdfunding.co.uk/help/faq/what-is-a-lead-investor).  They also take the lead by introducing your company to more potential investors.  Ideally, this produces a chain of investors that helps you meet your fundraising goals.

There are several reasons why it may be difficult for a start-up company to find investors.  In the article entitled, “25 Reasons Why I Will Not Invest in your Start-up,” Entreprenuer.com provides greater insight into this critical issue (entrepreneur.com/article/236999).  Reasons cited include, you have an inexperienced team, you cold-called me, you are way too early for my money, there aren't any other investors.  These objections can be overcome by finding a lead investor. 

You can click this link for help finding a lead investor for your business start-up, http://omegaaccelerator.com/contact/.

There are many benefits to becoming a lead investor.  Lead investors often enjoy a larger percentage of the profits than later investors.  They also may enjoy a seat on the board and have an active role in management (https://blog.funderbeam.com/faq_item/what-is-a-lead-investor-and-how-do-i-become-one/).  These investors may also negotiate special perks, such as exclusive vendor/customer relationships, networking opportunities, employment, etc.

Click this link to subscribe to our newsletter and learn about lead investor opportunities, http://omegaaccelerator.com/.

Here are some quick tips for finding your lead investor

• Strong MVP
• Compelling 1-page executive summary
• Don't worry about the valuation until later
• Network
• Pitch friends and family first
• Put some of your own money in the company
• Make traction
• Market like crazy
• Be persistent, not annoying
• Enjoy the process

Clicktivated, Transforming Video Into a Shoppable Experience

Clicktivated - Ecommerce, Social Media, http://www.clicktivated.com/ - Detroit, MI - Clicktivated seamlessly drives commerce and access to information through videos online, enabling viewers to click on any item in video to either purchase, or obtain additional information.  Creating an on-demand and immersive experience for the viewer and a tangible ROI for each client.

Clicktivated‘s proprietary interactive video technology creates a seamless connection between viewers and the various products and information of interest.  The result of a Clicktivated video is a fully engaged viewer that stays on content longer, interacts with more items and is significantly more inclined to make an informed and impulsive purchase.

The team includes:

Chris Roebuck – bachelor’s degree, 8 years of Start-up experience

Been Hatala- Masters in Business, Experience in Digital media and project management

Joe Roebuck – Extensive experience in start-ups, been involved in executive levels roles since 1976.

Read what people are saying...

"I think that Clicktivated is remarkable in the sense that it lends to greater purchase impulsivity because the navigation effort and time required to purchase products online is greatly reduced."

"I am really intrigued by what the guys at Clicktivated are doing with video and marketing. In simple terms, they embed product data in videos making them interactive or clickable. This enables consumers to easily find more information about the products being marketed in the videos.  When consumers click on the products, the embedded information pops up on the screen including a link which can take them directly to the product page itself.  This ability for consumers to click-thru makes shopping more convenient and should translate into more sales."

For more information, contact me at Ren@OmegaAccelerator.com

Sagoon, a Gateway to Connect, Share and Earn

Sagoon Inc.- Ecommerce, Social Media, https://www.sagoon.com/ - Woodbridge, VA - Sagoon is a social commerce platform that enables people of all ages to Connect, Share and Earn. It allows users to build a true connection, share useful experiences, and earn while socializing.

Social media has become a steady influence in our everyday lives, with 2.8 billion people across the globe now using at least one network. E-commerce is no different, as we’re now able to shop from anywhere, at any time, on any device, bringing a world of products to our fingertips.  However, what’s missing until now is a platform where users can both communicate socially and shop - and be rewarded for doing so. Sagoon was founded to fulfil this growing demand.

The team includes:

- Govinda Giri: Founder/CEO - 12 years of experience as a system engineer in the US Army at Pentagon, 10 years of experience in product design and development

- Swati Dayal: Co-Founder/Director - Operation head/Lead product design and development, • 10 years of experience in web and mobile product design and development

- Kabin Sitoula: Co-Founder - 20 years of experience in finance and marketing

Read what people are saying...

"Their business model appears ready for expansion or acquisition."

"Sagoon shows great potential for hitting it’s predicted growth trajectories as its short but rapid expansion has proven there is a need for a combination social platform for buying, earning and networking all in one."

"I like the fact that the key team is comprised of members with various backgrounds and experience. They have a clear vision of the future of social networking, growth of E-commerce, implications of globalization, and the positive impact of financial incentives."

For more information, contact me at Ren@OmegaAccelerator.com

Lonerider Distillery, Spirits for Outlaws

Lonerider Distillery - Food and Beverages, https://loneriderbeer.com/ - Raleigh, NC, USA - Lonerider Brewery has built a distribution system by forging relationships over eight years.  Lonerider Distillery will utilize this system and create high quality spirits to sell within this distribution footprint. The Lonerider brand of beer stands for quality and using the branding for the liquor will help with brand awareness and grow the brand faster nationwide and also internationally.

Small distillers need to age whiskey that has to sit in barrels for two to three years before they can sell that whiskey as super-premium spirits. This limits their growth and speed they can get their liquor to market. Also, small distillers do not have large distribution channels to distribute their product once these spirits are ready to be sold. This leads to high prices for quality whiskey with a limited product line.

The team includes:

Chris Mielke (President): 20 years in large scale operations management. Researched practices at over 50 US distilleries.

Sumit Vohra (Chairman): Founder of the Lonerider Brewery, entrepreneurial advisor and investor.

Read what people are saying...

"I like their model, I like their leadership. They are already operating and have a distribution plan which includes 10 states and 2 countries (UK & Netherlands) Steady growing social media."

"Lonerider Brewery is making new waves in a continuously growing market which has a rate of 141% on the Super Premium end of whiskey, and an impressive 25% on the more average end. Although Lonerider is breaking in to the whiskey business, their more predominant market of craft beer is expecting an 8% growth in the coming years. The team seeks to bring their expertise and passion into the world of spirits with signature recipes and take on market head on."

"I like the fact Lonerider has used its unique branding to tap into the growing market of high quality craft whiskey and bourbon. This market is trending towards that of the craft beer boom which has enjoyed a well-known expansion and popularity throughout not just the United States but also the world."

For more information, contact me at Ren@OmegaAccelerator.com

LeaderLync, Enabling Student Success by Developing Their Interpersonal and Leadership Skills

LeaderLync - Social Education, EdTech, http://www.leaderlync.com/ - Gainesville, FL, USA

LeaderLync is a mobile platform that enables student success in the innovation economy by guiding them to develop their interpersonal and leadership skills.

Even with a $100B market for HR assessment tools and lots of competition using AI and predictive analysis, employees are not happy, women are not mentored, student debt keeps growing, and graduates do not have skills companies need. LeaderLync redefines leadership and human capital by helping connect students to diverse career pathways. Our research-based leadership index is like a financial confidence index for leadership and helps students to identify, develop, and connect their interpersonal and leadership skills with diverse career pathways.

Leaderlync is a skills-logging and tracking mobile application. Skills seekers are encouraged by an AI assistant to identify, develop, and improve their leadership and interpersonal skills.

The Team Includes:

Anita Anantharam, CEO

Yolie Olavarria, Partnerships, Relationships, Mindfulness

Duncan Kabinu, Architect, Engineer

Laura Guyer, Health Disparities Learning Officer

Read what people are saying about LeaderLync

"I like that the business is focused on the needs of the current student. Skill sets are often overlooked in the academic environment. If you have the right skill sets, good-for-you, if not, you're on your own; this is the way most institutions function. LeaderLync has addressed this problem by offering a simple solution to help students overcome such hurdles."

"I also believe this app’s ability to streamline the process of connecting qualified workers and employers will carve a deep niche within the workforce for generations to come."

For more information about LeaderLync, contact me at www.OmegaAccelerator.com

#5 MFS - RYman2017 Interview - Money for a Startup

Today is our 5th article anniversary, so to celebrate I invited 10 year old RYman2017 to talk about his YouTube channel startup.  He already has over 100 subscribers after only 2 weeks.  You can visit his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/RYman2017 .

- Why did you start doing videos? - Because his friends were doing it.

- Who taught you how to do videos? - Self-taught by watching other YouTube videos.

- What are your goals for the channel? - 1,000 subscribers

- Do you have any tips for first-time YouTubers? - Experiment and play with making videos until you find something you like.

Want more?

You can watch the videos and subscribe to my YouTube channel here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmxQWgUDlPJo0IHCIa6SzrQ 

Questions or comments?

​Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rencarlton

Twitter: @RenCarlton

IG: rencarlton