More than $10 million in private sector capital is set to be unlocked to help over 40 early-stage Victorian startups reach their economic potential, thanks to funding announced by the Andrews Labor Government today.

The $1.16 million investment made by the Government’s startup agency LaunchVic will provide a much-needed boost for many early-stage startups who are finding it difficult to secure seed investment to help them take the next step.

LaunchVic ran an Expression of Interest process seeking high quality, Victorian-based angel network proposals. The lack of access to capital was identified as a serious issue for the sector, further exacerbated by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Four new angel groups run by experienced angel investors will receive funding to support the establishment of their operations, enabling them to unlock significant financial investments. These are:

• Working Theory Angels, which will make at least eight investment deals with a combined value of $2.1 million
• Angel Partners, which aims to make 15 investment deals and activate $1.9 million of capital
• Innovation Bay Angel Network, which will facilitate 11 investment deals with a combined value of $4.1 million, and
• Archangel Ventures, which will make nine investment deals and activate $2.25 million of capital.

Angel networks play an important role in supporting early-stage startups, providing funding (generally between $100,000 and $1 million); mentorship, which is often considered more important than financial support; networks and connections to support business development; and critical advice on establishing processes.

For more information, visit launchvic.org.