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Central Texas Angel Network

One of the most active angel networks in the U.S., heavily involved in Austin’s startup ecosystem.

Austin, TX, USA

Description

The Central Texas Angel Network (CTAN) is one of the largest and most active angel investor networks in the United States, based in Austin, Texas. It is a non-profit association of accredited investors who provide capital, connections, and mentorship to early-stage companies.
  • Seed & Series A: CTAN focuses on high-growth startups seeking their first institutional rounds of funding.
  • Traction Required: Companies must be beyond the "idea stage" and have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), some form of customer validation (users, early revenue, or pilot contracts), and a clear path to scalability.
  • Method: Founders must submit their application through the CTAN website portal.
  • Fees: There is an application processing fee (typically $50 to $100). If selected to present at the main meeting, a presentation fee is also required.
  • Materials: A detailed pitch deck (under 15 slides is recommended), executive summary, and video elevator pitch. 

Eligibility

  • Geography: Strong preference for companies in Central Texas, though they consider deals across Texas and occasionally nationwide if the lead investor is local.
  • Sectors: Industry-agnostic, with significant activity in SaaS, Biotech/MedTech, Consumer Products, and Energy Tech.
  • Exit Potential: Must have a credible path to an exit within 3–7 years. 

Process

CTAN follows a rigorous, multi-stage vetting process: 

  1. Online Submission: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
  2. Screening: A Deal Flow Committee reviews applications. Approximately 12 companies are selected monthly for screening.
  3. Screening Committee Pitch: Founders pitch to a smaller committee of members.
  4. Main Meeting Presentation: The top 3–4 companies from screening are invited to present to the full network of 180+ investors at the monthly main meeting.
  5. Due Diligence: Interested members form a dedicated due diligence team to perform in-depth analysis (4–8 weeks) of legal, financial, and technical aspects.
  6. Investment: Members make individual investment decisions, which are aggregated into a single LLC for the company’s cap table. 

What an Applicant can Obtain

  • Capital: Access to one of the most active angel networks in the US; members have invested over $120 million since 2006.
  • Mentorship: Direct coaching from a massive network of seasoned Austin-based executives and serial entrepreneurs.
  • Ecosystem Access: Connections to the thriving Central Texas tech ecosystem and local VCs.