Description
Gopher Angels is a Minnesota-based angel investor network founded in 2012 that brings together accredited investors to support scalable early-stage startups across industries including healthcare/medtech, enterprise SaaS, biotech, food & beverage, agtech, and CPG. Members collaborate to source, evaluate, and invest capital into promising ventures, providing financial backing, mentorship, and industry connections throughout the Midwest and beyond.
Eligibility
• Accredited angel investors can join the network (standard SEC accreditations apply).
• Startups must be scalable and high-growth focused, typically with a product, early traction, or early revenue to attract investor interest.
• Sector-agnostic, though active in areas like healthcare, software, biotech, and enterprise solutions.
Process
Submission & Screening: Founders submit their company for consideration through the Gopher Angels application process or pitch events.
Investor Group Review: The network’s members review opportunities together, conduct due diligence, and decide on investment terms collaboratively.
Deal Negotiation: If selected, startups and investors negotiate equity terms, valuation, and capital commitments (no fixed template; terms vary by deal).
Funding & Support: Once agreements are executed, investors deploy capital and often provide ongoing mentorship and network access.
Follow-On Rounds: Gopher Angels may participate alongside co-investors in future financings as companies grow.
What an Applicant can Obtain
✔ Access to a network of accredited investors ready to commit capital to suitable early-stage ventures.
✔ Mentorship and strategic guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs and investors.
✔ Capital for seed and early rounds with negotiated equity terms.
✔ Introductions to broader angel and venture communities across Minnesota and the Midwest.
✔ Potential for follow-on support through co-investment with other funds and angel groups.
