Local capital and know-how for Upper Arkansas Valley businesses.
Ark Angels is a group of founders, mentors and backers in Salida, Buena Vista and the surrounding valley who invest in, advise and root for local businesses. We meet monthly. Anyone with something to offer is welcome.
Everyone decides for themselves. Ark Angels is not a fund and does not manage money.
Back local businesses
Money when it's the right fit, advice and introductions when it isn't.
Help each other out
A room full of people who've built something here and are willing to help out.
Keep it in the valley
So the next good idea from Salida or Buena Vista doesn't have to leave to grow.
Get involved
Members are accredited investors, but you don't have to write a check to be useful here. We meet monthly. Not an investor? Come to a public event or get in touch; there's usually a way to help.
Takes about five minutes.Tell us about your business
Raising money, or need someone who's done it before? A few paragraphs is plenty. We read everything; if it's a fit, we'll have you come share your story.
Your materials are seen only by the people reviewing and the investors you're presented to.What we fund
If it's based here or serves the people here, it's in scope. Not sure? Ask.Software & services
Companies that can be run from here and sell anywhere.
Outdoor & outfitters
Guides, gear, rafting, bikes. The things people come here for.
Consumer packaged goods
Food, drink and other CPG brands made here and sold beyond the valley.
Real estate projects
Commercial and mixed-use with a local operator behind it.
Farms & ranches
Agriculture and the products made from it.
Shops & restaurants
Main Street businesses with a plan to grow or open a second door.
Common questions
Do I have to invest?
No. Plenty of people come for the meetings, the introductions and the chance to help. Nobody is ever asked to write a check.
Do I need to be an accredited investor?
To be a member, yes; you'll confirm it when you join. Public events and the contact form are open to anyone.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes. Your materials go to the people reviewing it and, if you present, to the investors in the room. Nothing is posted publicly.
How often do you meet?
Once a month, in the evening in Salida, for about ninety minutes. Come when you can; nobody takes attendance.
What kind of businesses?
Anything based in or serving the Upper Arkansas Valley; the list above is a guide, not a fence. Early is fine. An idea on a napkin is early for us, but we'll still tell you where to go next.
Is this a fund?
No. Each person decides for themselves whether to invest, and on what terms. Ark Angels doesn't hold or manage anyone's money.
Why we exist
Good businesses in this valley were driving to Denver to find money and advice that was already here. Ark Angels is a way to keep both close to home: a monthly room where the people building things and the people who can help them actually meet.
The best thing it produces isn't a deal. It's the room.
Get in touch
A question, an idea, a business we should know about, or just curious. Write to us. A real person reads it and replies within a few days.
Raising money or need advice on your business? The founder form above gets to the right people faster.