We invest in high potential and exceptionally led companies that happen to be founded by women.
We are committed to creating an uncomplicated funding experience for our founders, with clear status updates + constructive feedback.
Funding Cycle Process
The Beam investment process runs from February to November. Targeted feedback is provided at each stage in the investment process for those not selected.
Application: Founders can apply for funding consideration through Gust. Prior to applying, we recommend that founders review the Sample Pitch Deck for suggested information to include in your pitch deck and the FAQ to see how we evaluate deals.
Screening: The Beam Team selects companies to move forward and creates deal packages for investor review.
Matching and Prep: Selected founders will be matched to Guardian Angels to support preparation for Deal Meetings.
Deal Meetings: The Beam Team hosts 1 hour meetings for each deal for interested investors to learn more about the founding team and company:
Founders pitch for 5 minutes and demo product, if necessary
Founders answer pre-submitted investor questions (shared ahead of time with the founder)
Investors can ask additional questions with remaining time
Due Diligence: Beam Team hosts meetings with investors to discuss final questions and terms of investment. Founders host office hours for investors to answer any final questions. Investors make final decisions.
Funding: The Beam Team sends final documents to investors to review and sign. Investors transfer funds reflecting their private capital commitment.
FAQ
+ What is Beam's investment criteria?
We seek deals with both proof of concept and some market traction.
Team
- A well-balanced, uniquely qualified, and enthusiastic team with the ability and domain expertise to execute their plan
- At least one woman on the founding team
Market Opportunity/Competition
- A solution to a problem that customers feel deeply and many people have
- A strong competitive advantage through high barriers to entry, IP, disruptive technology, marketing position, etc. The market ideally would have room for growth and offer opportunity to capitalize on industry trends.
Product/Service
- A product or service created with input from clients or potential clients
- Compelling traction (we prefer post-revenue but we are open to pre-revenue with “proof of concept” and/or confirmed intellectual property)
Business Model
- A viable and sustainable revenue model that can scale with investor support
- A plausible exit strategy or a clear path to repayment of investment and returns
+ Does Beam only invest in specific industries?
No, we invest across sectors and aim to have a diverse portfolio of startups. Extra considerations will be made when screening companies in industries with high capital expenditure requirements and long regulatory timelines such as energy/clean tech, life sciences, etc.
+ Does Beam only invest in Texas-based companies?
Our intent is to invest direct capital into Texas-based, women-founded companies. While we will primarily focus on Texas-based companies, a small number of our portfolio companies may be exceptional companies based out of state.
+ What are Beam's deal terms?
This document outlines Beam Angel Network’s standard deal terms. The reality is that Beam will not be leading most rounds and will work within the terms that the founder provides. Nonetheless, we strongly believe Beam Angel Network is a valuable partner for women founders. Our investors not only write checks but, most importantly, they give you access - to their networks, mentorship and other funding sources. Getting invested by Beam Angel Network is a stamp of approval that our community believes in you, and it’s a tool you can use for future investments. We are dedicated to supporting women founders through the entire fundraising journey and beyond with all that our investors, community and network has to offer.
+ Do Beam members invest as a syndicate?
Beam facilitates the creation of LLCs for each deal our members make with two or more investors, and your cap table will reflect one entity. Our members aim to collectively invest at least $50,000 into each portfolio company.
+ I'm not ready to apply yet. Does Beam have resources to help me prepare?
Yes! Beam hosts a Fundraising Essentials series of modules that help prepare women founders to fundraise. They focus on topics like pitching, investor engagement, and financial basics. Check out our Events page for more info.