Daren Cotter

Daren Cotter is a prominent angel investor based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, widely recognized for his entrepreneurial success as the founder and CEO of InboxDollars. He built InboxDollars into a leading online marketing company, which was subsequently acquired by Prodege in 2019. This successful exit provided him with the capital and experience to transition into active angel investing through Cotter Ventures. His investment philosophy is deeply rooted in his operational background, focusing on supporting founders who are building scalable technology solutions.

Cotter primarily focuses on early-stage investments, with a strong emphasis on seed and Series A rounds. His portfolio indicates a clear preference for technology-driven companies, particularly within SaaS, fintech, digital media, and healthcare tech. He looks for strong founding teams and innovative solutions addressing significant market opportunities. His involvement often extends beyond capital, leveraging his extensive experience in scaling businesses to provide strategic guidance to his portfolio companies.

As of early 2024, Daren Cotter has made over 20 investments, according to public records, demonstrating his active participation in the startup ecosystem. His portfolio includes notable companies such as Branch, Flywheel, When I Work, and Gravie. He has also taken on lead investor roles, exemplified by his investment in Flipp, indicating a willingness to take a significant position in promising ventures. His investment in SportsEngine, which later achieved a successful exit, highlights his ability to identify and back companies with strong growth potential.

While specific check sizes are not always publicly disclosed, Daren Cotter typically deploys first checks ranging from approximately $100,000 to $500,000, reflecting his commitment to providing meaningful early-stage capital. He is known for supporting companies with follow-on investments as they progress. Cotter represents a valuable resource for early-stage founders, offering not just financial backing but also the invaluable insights of a seasoned entrepreneur who has successfully built and exited a significant venture.