# Angel investor

Concept · [Fundraising and equity](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/fundraising)

Also called: angel, angels, angel round, angel investment

An individual who invests their own money in a very young company, usually in [exchange](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/turn) for [equity](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/equity) or through a [SAFE](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/safe) or [convertible note](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/convertible-note).

**For example:** A retired business owner in your city believes in your idea and writes a personal check to help you build the [first version](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/mvp).

## Connects to (7)

- [Venture capital](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/venture-capital): Money that professional investment firms put into young companies in exchange for equity.
- [Pre-seed](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/pre-seed): The earliest outside money a startup raises, often before the product is finished or has customers.
- [SAFE](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/safe): Simple agreement for future equity.
- [Angel group](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/angel-group): A group of angel investors who hear startup pitches together.
- [Accredited investor](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/accredited-investor): A person or organization that meets tests set by the US securities regulator, the SEC, based on income, net worth or professional…
- [Build Venture Summit](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/build-venture-summit): An investor event run by Build in Tulsa.
- [Oklahoma Venture Forum](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/oklahoma-venture-forum): A membership organization in Oklahoma City that connects investors, entrepreneurs and service providers through events and pitch…

> This glossary is plain-language orientation, not legal or financial advice. Before you decide on a company structure, a contract, taxes or a fundraising deal, talk with a lawyer or an accountant.

Map view: https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/angel-investor