Investing money into startups can be a lucrative endeavor if done correctly. However, with the vast number of startup investing platforms available, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you.
In this guide, we discuss the best sites to invest in startups, what makes each one unique, and a brief overview of the process for each site so that you can decide which one is right for you!
Best Startup Investing Platforms
The best websites to invest in startups below each have their own unique approach to investing and connecting startups with resources. Read carefully through each one to determine the right match for your specific interests and investments.
1. StartEngine
StartEngine is one of the largest equity crowdfunding platforms in the US. The company works closely with startups to create creative campaigns that speak to investors. StartEngine provides a design team that helps startups secure investments and gives entrepreneurs their own manager account and drag-and-drop tools.
All startups do need to be based in the US, so it’s a great chance to find an American company to invest in. There aren’t any listing fees either, so it’s a more popular spot to invest in startups because they don’t have to pay high costs.
2. OurCrowd
OurCrowd is an excellent online venture capital (VC) platform that enables accredited investors to invest in carefully vetted, promising startups. By pooling together capital from a global network of investors and conducting thorough due diligence, OurCrowd provides access to high-quality investment opportunities while mitigating risk.
The user-friendly platform allows investors to easily diversify their portfolios and benefit from value-added services provided to portfolio companies, such as mentorship and strategic guidance. With its commitment to innovation and investor support, OurCrowd has become a leading platform for startup investing.
3. FundersClub
FundersClub is a prominent online venture capital platform that simplifies startup investing for accredited investors. The platform offers a curated selection of early-stage companies across various industries, such as technology, healthcare, and ecommerce.
FundersClub’s experienced investment team conducts extensive due diligence on each startup, assessing factors like market potential, competitive landscape, and founder experience. This rigorous screening process ensures only the most promising investment opportunities are presented to the platform’s members. By pooling together capital from a diverse group of investors, FundersClub enables individuals to invest in startups with smaller amounts of capital thereby reducing risk through diversification.
4. Sweater Ventures
Sweater Ventures is a relatively new and innovative mobile application that aims to democratize venture capital investing by allowing non-accredited investors to invest in carefully selected startups with as little as $500.
By leveraging the power of crowdfunding and fractional shares, Sweater Ventures enables a broader range of individuals to gain exposure to early-stage companies that have undergone a thorough due diligence process conducted by the platform’s experienced investment team. The app provides a user-friendly interface, educational resources, and a transparent fee structure, making it an accessible and appealing option for those looking to diversify their investment portfolios and participate in the potential growth of promising startups.
5. Republic
Republic is a leading online investment platform that enables potential investors to fund and research startups, real estate, video games, and crypto projects. The platform aims to increase access to venture capital and private investing by allowing investors to invest with as little as $50 to build and diversify their portfolios.
Republic conducts thorough due diligence on each investment opportunity, selecting only a small percentage of the startups that apply to be featured on the platform.
6. Wefunder
As one of the longest-running investment platforms online, Wefunder claims to have helped the most founders create successful businesses. Wefunder is different from a lot of other platforms because they offer convertible notes, which means that the money users invest can be turned into equity later on.
This is a great option for startups that might not be ready to give up equity yet, but still need funding. There are no upfront fees, but Wefunder does take a 7.5% cut after the deal has been made with an investor.
7. AngelList
AngelList is a renowned online platform that connects startups, angel investors, and job seekers in the tech industry. The platform offers a variety of services, including startup investing, job search, and talent recruitment. AngelList’s investment platform, AngelList Venture, allows accredited investors to invest in carefully curated startups alongside experienced angel investors and venture capital firms.
Investors can browse through a wide range of investment opportunities, review detailed company profiles, and select the startups that align with their investment goals and risk tolerance. AngelList also offers a unique feature called “Syndicates,” which enables notable angel investors to create their own investment funds and invite other accredited investors to co-invest with them.
8. MicroVentures
MicroVentures is an online venture capital investment platform that connects accredited investors with early-stage startups and small businesses seeking funding. Founded in 2009, MicroVentures aims to democratize the venture capital industry by providing investors with access to carefully curated investment opportunities that were previously only available to large venture capital firms and angel investors.
The platform conducts thorough due diligence on each startup featured, evaluating factors like market potential, team experience, and business model sustainability. MicroVentures then presents these vetted investment opportunities to its network of accredited investors, who can invest as little as $100 into the startups they find most promising.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it smart to invest in startups?
As long as you choose the right startup, it can be very profitable to fund a startup in exchange for equity in the company. Be sure to take the current market into consideration and do your research before committing any funds to a particular startup.
How do investors get paid back?
An investor will pay funds in exchange for a percentage of ownership in the company. Once the startup “exits,” meaning it’s either acquired by another company or goes public, the investor will cash out their shares.
How much money do you need to invest in startups?
Depending on the platform, you can invest as little as $10 into a startup.