ABOUT

The Dartmouth Angels

Dartmouth Angels connects Dartmouth-affiliated startups with early-stage funding and mentorship.

Our mission is to fuel innovation through a national network of Dartmouth alumni investors.

Founded in 2019 as part of the Magnuson Center, Dartmouth Angels offers opportunities for Angels and entrepreneurs to connect through annual events, pitch presentations, industry specific mentoring, and access to online educational resources.

Our goals are to:

  • Increase the opportunity to support Dartmouth entrepreneurs: more deals and mentorship

  • Strengthen the Dartmouth entrepreneurial community: make it better/easier for startups and investors to participate

  • Build a scalable, future-forward network: make it a well-oiled machine to keep going

Apply as a Startup Founder

Startup founders with a Dartmouth connection can apply for angel investment, mentorship, or strategic advice.

Benefits for Startup Founders:

  • Access to early-stage funding

  • Targeted mentorship from Dartmouth’s network of industry and stage experts

  • Warm introductions to VCs and institutional investors

Sign up on Gust to get started.

Apply to be a Dartmouth Angel

Join Dartmouth Angels and become part of a vibrant, growing community of 110+ Angels shaping the next generation of Dartmouth-founded startups.

We’re looking for investors, mentors, presenters, founder referrals, and service providers.

Benefits for Dartmouth Angels:

  • Curated deal flow from the Dartmouth community, with potential for venture-scale returns

  • Exclusive access to educational resources and webinars through ACA Membership

  • Opportunities to connect and collaborate with investors and founders across the Dartmouth ecosystem

Sign up to get started.

The Dartmouth Angels Spotlight Event

Each quarter, a select group of founders takes the virtual stage to pitch their ventures to the Dartmouth Angels network.

These high-visibility events are a unique opportunity to share your vision, gain valuable exposure, and connect with experienced angel investors.

Spotlight Events are held every February, May, August, and November.

To apply, at least one founder must have a Dartmouth connection—alumni, students, faculty, or staff from any undergraduate or graduate program.

FAQ for Investors

Is there a fee to join?
No. There is no membership fee. Each Angel decides independently whether to participate in a given deal.

What are the qualifications to join?
You must be an Accredited Investor under SEC guidelines and agree to our code of ethics and group norms. Prior investing experience isn’t required, but experience in entrepreneurship, startups, or relevant industries is helpful. Many new members gain hands-on experience through screenings and due diligence.

Are there fees when making an investment?
Sometimes. Additional fees may apply on a deal-by-deal basis—for example, in syndicated deals or those requiring added legal, administrative, or diligence support.

Is there a minimum investment amount?
No. There’s no minimum check size to be part of Dartmouth Angels, and no annual investment requirement. Founders or syndicate partners may set their own minimums. Individual investments typically range from $5,000–$25,000, with group totals often reaching $100,000+.

Can I invest through an entity?
Yes. You may invest via a Trust, Corporation, or LLC, as long as it qualifies as an Accredited Investor. Consult your legal or financial advisor for proper structuring.

Can I invest outside of group selections?
Yes. All Angels have access to the Gust platform, where every submitted deal is listed. You may connect with founders and invest independently, even if a company isn’t selected for group diligence.

Are Spotlight Events virtual?
Most are held virtually via Zoom. Some may be in person and may be recorded. Recordings are usually shared afterward if you can’t attend live.

What happens after a Spotlight Event?
Companies of interest may move into deeper evaluation. If enough Angels express interest, the group proceeds with due diligence and potential investment.

FAQ for Founders

Who makes up the audience at a Spotlight Event?
The audience is made up of accredited investors from the Dartmouth Angels network. Each event features up to five startups pitching to this engaged and active group.

What is the typical investment amount for startups selected at a Spotlight Event?
Average check sizes range from $15,000–$20,000, though amounts may vary depending on your company’s stage and investor interest. For simplicity and speed, Dartmouth Angels often invest via SAFEs, but may also use convertible notes or participate in priced rounds.

If my company is pre-product, are there standard terms I should expect?
There are no set terms. Each deal is negotiated individually, factoring in founder preferences, potential dilution, and investor interest.

When is the right time to apply?
You may apply at any stage. However, your chances of success improve if you have a working product and some early traction or proof points to showcase.

If I’m not selected for the current cycle, can I reapply?
Absolutely. Applications are reviewed fresh each round, and extra consideration is given to any progress or milestones you’ve achieved since your previous submission.