The Inaugural NorCal AngelCon: Empowering Startups and Growing Angel Investors

NorCal AngelCon has launched its Inaugural program, creating a new opportunity to grow the startup ecosystem in the Greater Sacramento region.. This innovative initiative, funded by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), aims to activate new angel investors while strengthening the capacity of early-stage startups. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting program and the upcoming pitch event that marks its capstone for this inaugural year.

Activating Angel Investors: Building Capital and Connections

Angel investors play a critical role in the early success of startups, providing both funding and mentorship to help young businesses navigate challenges and accelerate growth. Recognizing the need for more active local investors, NorCal AngelCon was designed to train a new cohort of angel investors in sourcing, screening, and diligencing startups ready for seed-stage funding.

This year’s program successfully graduated its first group of investors, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to confidently invest in high-potential ventures. These investors will also have the unique opportunity to announce their $105,000 investment in one of four finalists during the AngelCon pitch event.

“Partnering with the Growth Factory to bring this program to life has been exciting. Inspired by similar initiatives in markets like San Diego and San Luis Obispo, we saw the potential for activating early-stage investors in our region,” said Cameron Law, Executive Director of the Carlsen Center. “In our first year, we introduced 13 new angels and supported 18 companies with an investment readiness series. There’s clear interest in this asset class, and AngelCon provided essential training, connections, and experience. We’re eager to engage our waitlist and expand the program to activate more capital in 2025!”

The Journey to the Final Four

Out of 80 companies that applied, four finalists made it through the rigorous selection and diligence process to pitch for the grand prize. Each company represents innovation in its field and a potential to drive significant impact in the region:

  • 811 Spotter: Automating 811 ticket management for contractors.
  • ARIZ Precision Medicine: Targeting cancer at its root cause.
  • CREE8 Inc.: Delivering centralized virtual computing and collaboration solutions for creatives.
  • JAPA Parking: Revolutionizing parking and mobility services.

These startups will compete not only for the $105,000 investment from the angel investors but also for an additional $10,000 audience choice award.

Event Details: Don’t Miss the Action

The NorCal AngelCon pitch event promises an evening of networking, inspiration, and innovation. Here’s what you need to know:

  • When: Wednesday, November 20, 5:00pm – 7:30pm
  • Where: The Growth Factory, 4465 Granite Drive, Rocklin
  • Agenda:
    • 5:00 PM: Happy Hour & Networking
    • 6:00 PM: Investor Panel & Startup Pitches
    • 7:30 PM: Winner Announcements
    • RSVP Here

This event marks the culmination of months of effort by the angel investors and startups alike, showcasing the incredible potential of fostering a thriving local startup ecosystem.

Why NorCal AngelCon Matters

NorCal AngelCon is focused on creating a stronger network of angel investors and startups in the Sacramento region. By training investors and providing funding opportunities, the program builds a more sustainable foundation for economic growth and innovation.

Wrap-Up 

NorCal AngelCon provides a practical way for individuals and businesses to support entrepreneurship and innovation in the region. Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or community member, this program offers a chance to get involved and contribute to the local economy.

RSVP for the pitch event and see how startups and investors are shaping the future of the Greater Sacramento region.

Interested in learning about more events happening in the Greater Sacramento region? Check our event listings!