In January of 2008 the Blue Water Angels formed to invest in startup companies in and around the MidMichigan region. Composed of high wealth, expereinced entrepreneurs and corporate executives, their primary objective is a return on their investments. However, the angels offer other benefits to the companies they invest in, inluding coaching, entrepreneurial support, connections to the MidMichigan Innovation Center, and other benefits. See the recent press release.
The angel group is currently composed of 26 investors, with a committed annual capital value of approximately $1,000,000.
It is very exciting and encouraging to have such a valuable group available to startup companies in our region. Why so? It is because our region is needing to change, and the Angels can help make that happen. Gone are the days of growing the local economies through big corporate erxpansions. While mid-Michigan has several of those in the works (Dow, Dow Corning, Hemlock Semiconductor), and we are greatful for the economic impact they have, the future is with the startup companies. They are the risk takers. The corporations on the other hand are risk adverse. And we all know that corporations can vaoprize jobs just as fast as they added them (just look at the auto industry).
Investing in startup companies can have the bigger, long-term impact. Just look at Silicon Valley, Boston, San Diego where new companies form everytime a corporation has a layoff.
MidMichigan has a wealth of business experts, science and technology experts, and a solid university system. It is a great place for entrepreneurs and their families. The Blue Water Angels will make it even better.
For more information about the Blue Water Angels click HERE.
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