Marcia Dawood on Angel Investing: Top 10 Actionable Takeaways

Hello Everyone -

I hope your 2025 summer is off to a great start!

Looking for a beach read or a book to read on the plane or bus to your summer destination, then definitely peruse the Worthy for Thirty Book Club.

I also want to provide you with inspiration from my conversation with angel investor and educator, Marcia Dawood. (Her book is listed in the Book Club!)

• Start Small, Learn Big: You can actually invest as little as $50 in early-stage companies now, thanks to some SEC rule changes. It's a fantastic way to dip your toes in and learn without risking your whole savings.

• Angel Investing Isn't Just for the Super Rich: Marcia herself quickly learned that angel investing isn't some exclusive club. It's happening in every city and town, and regular folks can get involved.

• Impact Beyond Charity: Want to make a difference in the world? Investing in for-profit companies can drive innovation and positive change, not just non-profits. It's about creating jobs and solving problems.

  "I have a kind of a Love/Hate relationship with the word impact and I say that because I do believe that you can make an impact and also make a financial turn." - Marcia Dawood

• Bridge the Funding Gap: Marcia is super passionate about getting more funding to women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups in the startup world. Your investment can help level the playing field.

• Find Your Local Startup Scene: Curious about getting started? Search for "startup events in [your city or town]" to connect with local entrepreneurs and see what's happening.

• Check Out Equity Crowdfunding Platforms: Platforms like WeFunder, Republic, and StartEngine are your go-to spots for investing small amounts and actually owning a piece of a startup.

• Consider Investing in Funds: If you're looking for diversification and to spread your risk, investing in funds (especially those with a specific focus, like supporting female founders) is a smart move.

• Networking is Key: Angel groups are awesome for pooling knowledge. You can learn from others and evaluate companies even if you're not an expert in their specific field.

• Your Mistakes are Lessons: Marcia openly shares that she's made mistakes, and that's totally fine! She wants to help others avoid them, so learn from her journey.

• Financial Return and Impact Can Coexist: Marcia has a "love/hate relationship" with the word "impact" because she firmly believes you can make a positive change in the world and get a financial return. It's not one or the other! Ahem, doing good while doing well!