“PLAYING YOUR ROLE IN THE STARTUP ECOSYSTEM: INVESTING, ADVISING, AND BOARD LEADERSHIP” LED BY ANGELA LEE

Angela Lee, Founder of 37 Angels and Professor of Venture Capital at Columbia Business School, led an impactful educational session that went beyond surface-level conversations about funding—it was a rare opportunity to learn the mechanics of angel and venture investing. With experience spanning 200+ investments, teaching the next generation of investors, and leading one of the most active angel networks in the U.S., Angela brought unparalleled expertise on how capital truly flows, where female founders face inequities, and how investors can close those gaps.

Participants gained a candid look at the state of capital access for women—just 2% of funding goes to all-female teams—and learned how investors can influence change through both capital allocation and strategic support. From the fundamentals of equity investing and portfolio construction to practical insights on deal flow and diligence, Angela shared actionable frameworks that helped attendees strengthen judgment, reduce risk, and build conviction in their investing decisions.

For founders in the room, the session offered clarity on how investors assess opportunities and structure deals, along with strategies for negotiating equity, building traction, and preparing for each stage of fundraising. But the biggest takeaway for investors was a sharpened toolkit: how to evaluate early-stage startups with confidence, how to provide high-value support beyond writing checks, and how to play a critical role in shaping a more equitable venture ecosystem.

What were the Key Takeaways from This Year’s Summit?

• Capital is diversifying: Women are rapidly reshaping angel investing, driving inclusion and impact.
• Relationships unlock scale: Communities and curated networks fuel opportunity more than headcount.
• Tactical investor training: Tactical education transforms uncertainty into informed decisions, equipping investors to back founders with clarity and confidence.
• Risk is muscle memory: Early-stage investing requires small, consistent steps that build comfort and confidence.
• Investing isn’t just money: Advisory roles, introductions, and mentorship create lasting founder outcomes.
• Now is the time: The coming wealth transfer and rise of women-focused funds signal a new era of opportunity for founders and investors alike.

Be a Part of What’s Next

At Embarc Collective, we’re building the most ambitious startup community in Florida—and you don’t have to wait until the next Glaring Gap Summit to get involved.

• Become a Member: Join a growing network of founders, investors, and operators working together to accelerate Florida’s startup ecosystem.
• Subscribe to The Weekly Collective: Get practical insights, founder stories, and startup resources delivered to your inbox every week.
• Attend Upcoming Events: From founder roundtables to investor workshops, our calendar is designed to connect you with opportunities that fuel growth.