Upstate Carolina Angel Network

The Upstate Carolina Angel Network (UCAN), established in 2008 and based in Greenville, South Carolina, operates as a prominent angel investor network dedicated to fostering the growth of early-stage, high-growth companies. While their primary geographical focus is the Southeast United States, they place a particular emphasis on ventures originating within South Carolina. UCAN aims to identify and support businesses that exhibit strong management teams, possess large addressable markets, demonstrate defensible competitive advantages, and articulate clear exit strategies for investors.

UCAN's investment interests are diverse, spanning critical sectors such as life sciences, information technology, advanced manufacturing, cleantech, and consumer products. This broad sectoral approach allows them to capitalize on a wide range of innovative opportunities emerging from the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their commitment extends beyond capital, often providing strategic guidance and leveraging their network to assist portfolio companies in scaling.

Since its inception, UCAN has significantly contributed to the regional startup landscape. The network has collectively invested over $60 million across more than 70 companies, showcasing a robust and consistent track record of capital deployment. This substantial financial backing underscores their role as a vital source of early-stage funding and a catalyst for economic development in the Upstate region and beyond.

Typically, UCAN participates in funding rounds with contributions ranging from $250,000 to $1,000,000. They frequently engage in co-investment strategies, partnering with other angel groups, venture capital firms, and strategic investors. This collaborative approach allows them to pool resources, conduct more thorough due diligence, and provide larger, more impactful capital infusions to promising startups, thereby enhancing the likelihood of success for their portfolio companies.