The Angel Capital Association announced that angel activity was up 23% in 2006 from 2005. More telling were the optimistic comments regarding the prospects for even greater numbers this year.
Marianne Hudson, ACA’s executive director, frames the issue well. "Our research has shown a ‘capital gap’ for entrepreneurs looking for $200,000 to $2 million to get their companies to the next stage. By banding together with other angel groups and early stage venture capital groups, ACA member groups can help some companies obtain the capital they need," she said. "More and more, I’m hearing of deals in which three or more groups are working together to invest $850,000 to $1.5 million. Most groups cannot make that type of investment on their own."
We’re seeing that here in the South with the Southeast Angels effort which is helping these angel groups coordinate efforts and do more significant rounds.