Small businesses are usually built and financed with personal savings and/or borrowings from family and friends. As the business either grows or as its' purpose begins to further develop, finding equity capital becomes increasingly more difficult. It is here that the needs of the business will exceed the capacity of personal savings while still being too small to attract a venture capitalist. This gap is the realm of the "Angel Investor".

Generally, angel investors are wealthy business experienced individuals seeking to take an equity stake in your enterprise. Their business experience allows them to bring valuable managerial resources and advice to the table along with the equity to further the business plan. However, remember that angels holding equity in your firm also hold some control over your firm.

Further Discussion

Garage.com - In the "Garage" you can find resources to build your business. In "Heaven" an investor can locate available start-ups that match investment criteria. Also contains Newsroom and Job Search. The application process is free. If a company is accepted into the Portfolio, the company compensates Garage.com (through Garage.com's broker/dealer) when it has received funding. The broker/dealer receives a small percentage of the new money raised.

ACE-Net, the Access to Capital Electronic Network!

    For Investors-Initiated by the Office of Advocacy, U.S. Small Business Administration, to encourage private investors to invest in small businesses that create jobs and contribute to the economy. Only "accredited" investors may enroll with ACE-Net.

    For Entrepeneurs-ACE-Net addresses the capital gap in the $250,000 to $5 million range – amounts too high for debt financing but too small for most venture capitalists. Only entrepreneurs who can sell security interest in their companies can enroll with ACE-Net.

    The maximum annual fee of $450 provides both the investor and entrepreneur with unlimited access to all ACE-Net services.

SCI- SourceCapital InterNetwork is a private, secure, members-only site serving active Angel investors looking for fast-growth venture opportunities. Entrepreneurs present their electronic business plans using SCI's unique audio-visual format. There are no finder's fees or equity participation in any of the companies presenting business plans on the site. Membership Fees, Presentation Fees, Production Fees, Affiliation Fees and Sponsor Fees provide the main support for their operation. SCI is currently offering free six month trial memberships for verified, active Angel investors.

Business Partners - Nationwide Internet based Service that connects Potential Partners, Angel Investors, Investment Bankers and Venture Capital firms with Startups, Mature Businesses and Entrepreneurs. $50/Month $25/One Time.