Before companies come to angel groups like RVC for venture funding, they typically raise between $10,000 and $250,000 in “friends and family money” that may indeed come from friends and family, or from the founders themselves from savings, a second mortgage, credit cards, or other ways of getting capital to build prototypes, MVPs, and initial market testing.

There are many founders who are underserved by investors and do not have access to this sort of capital.  These founders may be from rural areas, or they may be in other under-funded groups such as Black, Hispanic, or female founders. This means that it is extremely difficult for them to get started, much less look for angel funding, Series A or beyond.

Companies must be located in Colorado to apply

With the help of the EDA, RVC is hosting the Friends and Family Funding Pitch Event. Founders who are Black, Hispanic, or otherwise underserved, should apply to pitch by following the instructions at this link. Founders will have access to, and are highly encouraged to attend, RVC’s Pitch Academy prior to the event. 

Selected applicants will have the opportunity to present at RVC's Friends and Family Funding Pitch Event!