Startup investors in Philadelphia
The angel groups and state-backed investor that take applications from Philadelphia and Mid-Atlantic founders, what each publishes about itself, and how to reach it.
All amounts are in US dollars.
Who invests in startups in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia founders can apply to two angel groups, Robin Hood Ventures and Broad Street Angels, both of which invest across the Mid-Atlantic. Pennsylvania-headquartered tech companies can also approach Ben Franklin Technology Partners, whose Southeastern PA partner covers Philadelphia.
Angel networks in Philadelphia
| Network | How it works | Who it looks for | Fees | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robin Hood Ventures | Experienced entrepreneurs and accredited investors who provide capital and guidance and syndicate with VCs, economic development groups and other angel groups | Early-stage, high-growth startups in the Mid-Atlantic | Not published | Get Funding page on its site, or [email protected] |
| Broad Street Angels | Established in 2016; 120+ members, all members of the Union League of Philadelphia | Companies with domain expertise, proof of concept and some sales traction, from New York to DC, centred on PA, NJ and DE | Not published | Apply for Funding on its Gust page |
Funds that invest in Philadelphia startups
| Fund | Stage | Published first cheque | Focus and eligibility | How to pitch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ben Franklin Technology Partners | Early validation through growth | Not published; investments are non-collateralized | Technology companies headquartered in Pennsylvania | Contact the partner for your region; Philadelphia is covered by Southeastern PA |
Programs that put founders in front of investors
No accelerator in Philadelphia with published terms and an open application was confirmed for this page.
Which route fits your company?
| If your situation is… | Look at | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Early-stage, high-growth, in the Mid-Atlantic | Robin Hood Ventures | Its stated stage and region |
| Proof of concept and some sales, between New York and DC | Broad Street Angels | Its stated criteria and region |
| Pennsylvania-headquartered tech company | Ben Franklin Technology Partners | Its stated eligibility |
Meeting an organization's criteria means you can apply, not that it will invest.
Show traction for Broad Street.
Broad Street Angels asks for proof of concept and some sales. Have your first revenue numbers ready before you apply.
What should you have ready before you apply?
- A Gust profile, for Broad Street Angels.
- Proof that the company is headquartered in Pennsylvania, for Ben Franklin.
- Early sales figures.
For how to run the raise itself, see how to raise a seed round.
Frequently asked questions
Does Ben Franklin invest outside Pennsylvania?
No. Companies must be headquartered in Pennsylvania.
What region does Broad Street Angels cover?
The Mid-Atlantic, from New York to DC, centred on Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.
How much does Robin Hood Ventures invest?
Its site says investments generally range from $250,000 to $1 million.