A person who financially backs a new business venture or startup.
An angel investor puts up capital to assist a company that is in its early stages of development. Unlike venture capitalists, who are typically bound to a professional
venture capital firm and
invest a pooled sum, angel investors are lone individuals taking their own risks and financing a vision they support. In return for backing a new start up, angel investors are often rewarded with equity in the company. If the venture is successful, angel investors get to make back their investment and then some.
In the crypto world, plenty of new
blockchain companies are financed via angel investors who are often scouted via investment and entrepreneurial networks.