3 Myths About Angel Investing

When most people think of angel investors, they picture billionaires in corner offices, Silicon Valley veterans, or finance gurus who live and breathe spreadsheets. No wonder so many people say:

The truth? Angel investing is far more accessible than the myths suggest. And the sooner we dismantle those myths, the sooner more diverse voices can step into this space — which is exactly what innovation needs.

Let’s unpack the three biggest misconceptions holding new angels back.

Myth 1: “You need millions to start.”

💡 Truth: You don’t need a yacht, a trust fund, or a Silicon Valley zip code. Many angels begin with investments of just €2,500–€5,000.

The idea that you need deep pockets keeps talented, curious people on the sidelines. In reality, angel investing can be a gradual journey. You start small, learn the ropes, and grow your portfolio over time. What matters most isn’t how much you put in at the beginning, but that you start.

Myth 2: “It’s only for finance experts.”

💡 Truth: Angel investing is powered by curiosity, not credentials.

You don’t need a background in venture capital or Wall Street. What you do need is an open mind and a willingness to learn. Every angel starts somewhere, and no one knows it all on day one.

In fact, the best investors are often those who bring different perspectives: experience as an entrepreneur, insights from a specific industry, or simply the ability to spot opportunities others overlook. The technical details — like term sheets or valuations — can be learned.

Myth 3: “You need to know the right people.”

💡 Truth: You don’t need an old boys’ club. You need the right access.

Historically, angel investing has thrived in tight, closed circles — which excluded many potential investors. But today, communities and programs are opening those doors. They offer access to diverse deal flow, education, and the support you need to make informed decisions.

Instead of wondering how to “break in,” you can focus on building confidence and finding opportunities aligned with your values.

Why it matters

Breaking down these myths isn’t just about giving more people the chance to invest. It’s about building an investment ecosystem that reflects the diversity of the world we live in. When more kinds of people invest, more kinds of founders get funded. And when more kinds of founders get funded, innovation expands for everyone.

At AtVenture, we believe angel investing should be open and inclusive. We’re here to replace the gatekeepers with open gates — so that anyone ready to back diverse founders can take their first steps with confidence.

Because if you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, it might be time to step onto the field.

👉 Learn more and join the Angel Accelerator!