LINK-Caribbean to host Caribbean Angel Investor Forum

Angel investors, as defined by Investopedia.

com, are affluent individuals who inject capital for startups in exchange for ownership equity or convertible debt.

The invitation-only CAIF is being hosted by LINK-Caribbean under the theme Growing angel investing in the Caribbean. The forum, expected to attract high-net-worth individuals from across the region and internationally, is among several activities of the US $1.6 million LINK-Caribbean program, aimed at promoting the development of an organised angel investment ecosystem within the Caribbean.

Executive Director of the Caribbean Export Development Agency (CEDA) Pamela Coke-Hamilton said the CAIF “represents our commitment to the development of an active angel investment ecosystem that translates into an alternative stream of capital for our private sector.” The CAIF is set to explore the current landscape of angel investing in the region and provide a series of workshops led by globally experienced angels on critical aspects of angel investing.

These workshops include due diligence and assessing firm valuation; deal structuring; and strategies for developing a successful partnership with entrepreneurs.

CEDA said, “Caribbean angels will play a key role as discussion facilitators. The forum will also provide an opportunity for a select number of entrepreneurs, including existing portfolio companies of regional angel groups, to present their businesses.” Implemented by CEDA, LINK-Caribbean is an initiative of the World Bank Group’s Entrepreneurship Program for Innovation in the Caribbean (EPIC) - A seven-year, $20 million Canadian dollar program funded by the government of Canada that seeks to build a supportive ecosystem for high-growth and sustainable enterprises throughout the Caribbean.

Over the past few years the World Bank Group has been investing in improving the angel investment prospects within the region through technical assistance and coaching for both entrepreneurs and investors.

During this period, the region has seen the emergence of five angel investor groups, including First Angels Jamaica and Alpha Angels in Jamaica, Trident Angels in Barbados, and IP Angels and Renaissance Angels in Trinidad and Tobago.

These angel groups have held private meetings to review companies and have made investments ranging from US $50,000 – $200,000 in at least six companies.

CEDA said the CAIF will provide a platform for these angels to come together as a community to share best practices and knowledge; network; and uncover new investment opportunities.