I am proud to have AIO release a 6 part educational set of videos for investors and entrepreneurs.   Each segment has 5 segments complete with transcript.   

Ready to Watch Now – AIO’s New Navigating Angel Investing – Investor Education Modules Video, Transcripts, and Quizzes

Angel Investors Ontario (AIO) is thrilled to unveil our latest video series, Navigating Angel Investing – Investor Education Modules! This dynamic series is designed to guide you through the intricate world of angel investing with insights from some of the most esteemed members of our angel community. We are incredibly grateful to these experts for generously sharing their time and expertise. The series comprises six modules, each thoughtfully divided into concise video clips.

Prefer reading? We’ve got you covered with comprehensive transcripts. After each module, test your newfound knowledge with a brief quiz! We invite you to explore or read through this series and share it with colleagues, friends, and family, especially highlighting any modules you think might resonate with them. A huge thank you to Kleurvision for their exceptional work in production and editing. Additionally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) for providing funding to support investor education and financial literacy for Ontario’s’ angle investors. Please note that these videos, created by AIO and our speakers, have not been approved or endorsed by the OSC. The views and content expressed are those of AIO and the speakers and do not reflect the official position of the OSC. For investor education resources from the OSC, visit www.getsmartaboutmoney.ca. 

Special thanks to Moien Giashi, Principal of Greensky Ventures; Scott Robinson, co-founder of PitchScore and Director of Angel Investors Durham; Danielle Graham of the Firehood; Eric Stickney, co-founder of Edgera Consulting; and Kate Tomen, former Business Development VP at AIO. 

Go to Knowledge Hub and sign up to access, otherwise for those already signed up here is the link to the new Videos:

Module 1: Understanding Angel Investing 

1. Overview of Angel Investing: What it is and why it’s essential. 
2. The critical role of angel investors in nurturing startups. 
3. How angel investment supports entrepreneurs after traditional funding sources, such as family, friends, or local incubators, have been exhausted. 
4. Unpacking the benefits and risks inherent in angel investing. 
5. Essential criteria for selecting promising startups to back. 

Module 2: Getting Started in Angel Investing 

1. Defining investment goals and developing a personal investment thesis. 
2. Crafting a diversified investment portfolio: Strategies for allocation. 
3. Navigating legal and regulatory frameworks for angel investors. 
4. Sourcing deals and uncovering prime investment opportunities. 

Module 3: Evaluating Startup Opportunities 

1. Conducting thorough due diligence: Analyzing business models, market potential, and the competitive landscape. 
2. Evaluating the founding team: Key traits and attributes to seek. 
3. Assessing product or service viability: Is there a true market fit? 
4. Reviewing financials and projections: Spotting red flags and growth potential. 

Module 4: Negotiating and Structuring Deals 

1. The art of deal negotiation: Setting favorable terms and valuations. 
2. Understanding various investment structures: Equity, convertible notes, SAFEs, and more. 
3. Safeguarding your investment: Key legal agreements and protective clauses. 
4. Cultivating relationships with founders and fellow investors. 

Module 5: Managing and Supporting Your Investments 

1. Beyond the capital: Ways to add value post-investment. 
2. Keeping tabs on your investments’ progress. 
3. Strategies to mitigate risks while maximizing returns. 
4. Planning your exit: Understanding liquidity events and optimal exit timing. 

Module 6: Scaling Your Angel Investing Journey 

1. Scaling up: Enhancing deal flow and expanding your portfolio. 
2. Leveraging syndicates and co-investing opportunities for broader reach. 
3. Balancing angel investments with other asset classes for a well-rounded portfolio.
4. Long-term planning: Continuously refining and evolving your investment strategy.

I was pleased to help produce this, our second major publication, called FUNDED by Angel Investors Ontario, as an educational resource for investors and entrepreneurs.

Mark Lawrence attended the TiE Spirit Awards in Toronto and helped to honor winner John Ruffolo of Mavrix

It was great to be in Barrie's Sandbox Centre, representing Angel Investors Ontario at the official launch of Ontario's first new Regional Innovation Centre launch in 15 years. Now there are 17 RICs. Fabulous turnout from local startup ecosystem including Michael Badham from Georgian Angels. Kudos to a year of hard work with Medjct by Dina Tzirakos-Hawker and Jesse Kerr . I had a great chat with local Minister Doug Downey , MPP Brian Saunderson , Minister Andrea Khanjin , and Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall . I gave them all a copy of our AIO Funded Magazine which so well illustrates how much the 1800 plus Angel Investors in our 18 not for profit groups help to finance and mentor so many of the great startups and entrepreneurs that graduate out of RICs such as Sandbox. All around Ontario our investors take on the task of helping to de-risk many of the startups to the point where Venture Capital Funds can invest to scale up the innovation sector entrepreneurs. This community support reminds me of the strong support AIO had in the setting up of a new angel network with help from the likes of MPP lorne coe . AIO was also a supporter of the very successful Sandbox reIGNITE Conference held last fall in Huntsville with participation from the whole startup ecosystem in Ontario.

StartupNorth.ca Interview with Mark Lawrence