Logo

Carolina Angel Network

We facilitate and foster the development of early-stage innovation with Tar Heel ties, syndicating high-growth investment opportunities with our community of UNC alumni, supporters, and advisors.

Chapel Hill, NC, USA

Apply

Description

The Carolina Angel Network (CAN) is the official alumni angel investment network of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It connects UNC alumni, donors, and friends with high-growth startups associated with the university community.

  • Traction Required: Startups should ideally have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and early evidence of market traction (e.g., initial revenue, completed pilot programs, or significant intellectual property).

Startups must apply through a standardized process to ensure they meet the network's affiliation requirements.

  • Method: Founders apply through the Carolina Angel Network application portal.
  • Requirement: Companies must have a UNC connection—this includes founders, executives, board members, or key investors who are UNC alumni, faculty, staff, students, or parents.
  • Materials: A standard pitch deck, executive summary, and a detailed "Use of Funds" plan are required.

Eligibility

  • Affiliation: Must have a clear link to the UNC-Chapel Hill ecosystem.
  • Sector: Industry-agnostic, with strong historical activity in Life Sciences, SaaS, Fintech, and Consumer Goods.
  • Geography: While many companies are in North Carolina, they invest in UNC-affiliated startups nationwide.

Process

The network follows a rigorous quarterly vetting cycle:
  1. Staff Screening: The CAN management team reviews applications for fit and UNC affiliation.
  2. Screening Committee: Selected startups pitch to a committee of experienced members for deep-dive evaluation.
  3. Member Presentation: The top 3–4 companies are invited to pitch to the full network of 150+ accredited investors during quarterly events.
  4. Due Diligence: Interested members form a team to conduct thorough vetting of the business, financials, and legal standing.
  5. Investment: Individual members make independent decisions to commit capital, which is typically aggregated into a single LLC.

What an Applicant can Obtain

  1. Strategic Capital: Access to funding from a network of high-net-worth alumni and executives.
  2. UNC Network Access: Direct introductions to the vast UNC alumni base for business development and talent.
  3. Strategic Mentorship: Guidance from members who are often industry leaders and serial entrepreneurs.
  4. Syndication: CAN frequently collaborates with other regional angel groups (like Duke Angel Network) to fill larger rounds.