Why angel investors are turning venture capitalists

Angel investment platforms are now able to participate more fully in the growth story of a firm by writing larger checks through the creation of their own venture capital funds. Serving as a venture capitalist is advantageous for businesses as well because VCs bring actual value to organizations by recruiting senior management and helping them grow and become more profitable.

Why angel investors are turning venture capitalists
Why angel investors are turning venture capitalists

The growing prominence of venture capital in the Indian market is a direct result of the country's thriving startup ecosystem, which has established itself as the third largest in the world. As the looming fears of a global recession and a severe funding winter fade, an unexpected trend in India's venture capital scene has emerged: angel investors are turning to VCs.

Angel investor growth in India has accelerated with the introduction of government-led programs like Angel Tax Relief and Startup India Initiative, which aim to create a favorable climate for startups in the nation. This has also contributed to the country's high and ultra-high-net-worth individual and entrepreneur population, who appear to be seeking investment opportunities.

Angel investors are increasingly turning into venture capitalists (VCs) for several reasons:

Access to Larger Capital Pools

As venture capitalists, former angel investors can access larger pools of capital, allowing them to make more significant investments. This transition enables them to fund more substantial portions of a startup's growth and participate in later funding rounds, which require more considerable sums of money.

Professionalization and Structure

Venture capital firms offer a more formal and structured approach to investing compared to angel investing. This professionalization includes access to a team of analysts, deal flow processes, and better due diligence capabilities, which can lead to more informed investment decisions and potentially higher returns .

Diversification and Risk Management

By becoming venture capitalists, former angel investors can diversify their portfolios more effectively. Venture capital funds often invest in a broader range of startups across different sectors and stages, spreading out the risk and potentially increasing the chances of high returns from successful startups​.

Influence and Control

Venture capitalists often have more significant influence and control over the companies they invest in. They can secure board seats, influence strategic decisions, and provide operational support, enhancing the likelihood of a startup's success. This level of involvement can be more attractive than the relatively hands-off approach typical of angel investing.

Market Dynamics and Opportunities

The startup ecosystem has evolved, with larger funding requirements and more competition for high-potential investments. Venture capital allows former angel investors to remain competitive and participate in later-stage funding rounds that require substantial capital commitments​.

Economic Incentives

The potential for higher financial returns in venture capital is a significant motivator. Venture capital firms typically take a management fee and a percentage of the profits (carried interest), which can be very lucrative if the fund performs well. This compensation structure can be more attractive compared to the returns from individual angel investments.

By transitioning from angel investing to venture capital, investors can leverage these advantages to maximize their impact and returns in the startup ecosystem.