2. Start-ups and SME’s are the engines of
Job Creation
New businesses accounted for ALL net job
growth in the US between 1980 – 2005*
In Canada, small business has accounted for
80 % of total job growth
* Source: Business Dynamics Statistics Briefing: Jobs Created from Business Startups in
the United States. Census Bureau and Kauffman Foundation, January 2009

3. The Commercialization Cycle for Innovation
© National Angel Capital Organization

4. The Innovation Commercialization Continuum
Resources (“pumps”) move opportunities:

5. The Innovation Commercialization Continuum
Angel Investors one critical component:

6. Angel Investors fuel the growth engine
of the economy
 New businesses accounted for All net job growth
in the US between 1980 – 2005*
 In Canada, small business has accounted for
80 % of total job growth
 Angel investing is the primary source of capital
for start ups and small businesses.
* Source: Business Dynamics Statistics Briefing: Jobs Created from Business Startups in
the United States. Census Bureau and Kauffman Foundation, January 2009

7. Companies Backed by American Angels

8. ANGELS:
Invest their own money (not money managers)
Generally invest in local early stage businesses
Are often “exited” entrepreneurs, retired business
persons or active business professionals
Provide capital, mentorship and contacts

9. Investors Entrepreneurs
Business Community
High Quality
Investment Ready
Opportunities

10. Structure of the Niagara Investment Network
Opportunities
 Seeks Deals
 Screens
 Coaches
 Hosts
Presentations
 Evaluate
NIAGARA  Due Diligence
Angel Network  Negotiate
 Invest
 Mentoring

11. The Virtuous Cycle
A fully integrate, well functioning pipeline in Niagara benefits all stakeholders including
entrepreneurs, Angel Investors, employees, suppliers and customers as well as the
Region and its institutions…. A flywheel effect takes hold.
Attract High Quality
Niagara Angel Network
Start Ups & SME’s
Attract More
Angel Investors
More High Quality More Investments
Start Ups & SME’s Opportunities
Higher Economic
Activity