Are you looking for investment in your business? Maybe you are thinking about, or in the process of preparing to raise, capital? Do you want to build relationships with local investors? The OKGN Angel Summit is just the thing for you!

The OKGN Angel Summit is an investor-led program designed to expose accredited investors to the world of angel investing through a guided, hands-on process. A small venture capital fund is raised, deals are screened, and an actual investment in a business is made at the end of the 10-week series. Companies are able to apply for a chance to participate in this event.

On March 18, 2021, the OKGN Angel Summit culminates in a public event where 6 finalists make their pitches to an audience of community members, and the winner is awarded an investment of up to $150K. That’s right, $150K. It’s like Dragon’s Den meets American Idol!

The cost to participate is $199 if you apply on or before December 4, 2020, or if you are an Accelerate Okanagan member. After that, it’s $299. The deadline to apply is December 31, 2020.

Ready for investment? Apply Now >>

Before you decide to sit this one out, give us a chance to debunk some of the reasons you may be hesitant to join. Now, you may be thinking…

1. I’M NOT READY

Oh yes, you are! Part of the OKGN Angel Summit’s process is learning about how to grow your company effectively and efficiently. Through the process, you will get feedback, identify blind spots, learn how to refine your pitch, optimize your business model, and create a roadmap for how your company is going to scale.  You can be pre-revenue or post-revenue. What investors are looking for are great ideas and scalable business models.

2. MY COMPANY IS NOT ‘TECH’

No problem! The OKGN Angel Summit is industry agnostic so all applicants are welcome. Like we said, what investors are looking for are great ideas and scalable business models.

3. I DON’T WANT TO LOSE

Honestly, you can’t lose. Even if you don’t leave with the big cheque, you are still winning. Over the 10 weeks leading up to the finale, you will have expanded your network, gained valuable feedback, and built quality relationships with investors. There is so much value in just going through the process. Seriously, can you think of anywhere else you will get access to multiple active investors who are all willing and wanting to learn how to invest in your company?

4. I’M NOT A PEOPLE PERSON

We get that, but part of being an entrepreneur is taking risks and putting yourself out there. That means building relationships and expanding your network. The purpose of the summit is to create experienced investors in the Okanagan that are geographically close to the companies they are investing in. This serves to build strong connections between the investors and founders while also increasing your ability to receive mentorship and guidance. If it sounds like a win-win-win that’s because it is. 

5. FEEDBACK IS HARD

You’re right. It is also a critical part of scaling a business and accessing capital. Investors will conduct a broad and in-depth review of your application and business. They will offer a detailed analysis of strengths, weaknesses and how to de-risk your venture. Even if you don’t make it to the final 6, having feedback from 20+ business minds is a huge opportunity to move your business forward.

PERK ALERT: The top 6 finalists will have the opportunity to participate in a private one-on-one with Canadian entrepreneur, investor, and Dragons’ Den star Arlene Dickinson at the Finale event.

Learn and win or learn, learn, learn—there is no downside to applying to the OKGN Angel Summit (did we mention the deadline is December 31, 2020?).

To maintain COVID-19 health and safety standards, the majority of 2021 OKGN Angel Summit events and meetings will be hosted virtually for investors and companies with the potential to appear in person for the final pitch event.

Ready to get invested? Apply Now >>

Have more questions about the OKGN Angel Summit? Visit Our Webpage >>