I've worn multiple hats in my career—from founder to investor. Over the years, I’ve built four companies and taken an active interest in startups, not just as an investor but as someone who genuinely enjoys being part of the journey. Angel investing can be more impactful when investors bring added value through experience, mentorship, and connections. Both founders and investors benefit from networks built on trust. Clear outreach and frequent updates help founders build lasting, productive relationships with their supporters. As a founder, I didn’t immediately see myself becoming an investor. I started angel investing to gain a return, but also to bring value to the startups I supported. When choosing where to invest, I’m not interested in a set thesis or sector-focused strategy. My approach centers around relationships and personal connections. Relationships: I invest in people I trust and respect. If I’m confident in the founder’s character and capabilities, that’s often the deciding factor. The best connections are often serendipitous – it’s about being authentic and showing your value upfront. When reaching out to investors, do your homework, make your ask forwardable, know your audience, and provide regular updates. Bugging your investors isn’t a bad thing – as long as you’re respectful, regular updates can lead to new connections and opportunities. A single thoughtful connection can be worth more than a dozen poorly prepared introductions.