Airtree Empowers Diversity in Angel Investing Nationwide with the Launch of Explorer Program

Leading venture capital firm, Airtree, has unveiled the commencement of applications for its highly anticipated Airtree Explorer program. In a bid to enhance diversity in angel investing, the program places a heightened focus on cultivating investment opportunities outside the major hubs of Sydney and Melbourne. Launched in 2020, Airtree Explorer is a dynamic three-month initiative specifically designed to make angel investing more accessible by offering comprehensive education and unwavering support to new investors venturing into the startup ecosystem.

By participating in the program, individuals gain invaluable training covering various critical aspects of angel investing. From acquiring the skills to identify potential investment prospects and conducting rigorous due diligence to comprehending term sheets and navigating intricate legal matters, participants receive an immersive educational experience. The program goes above and beyond by providing mentorship and facilitating regular catch-ups, fostering a nurturing environment that encourages the exchange of knowledge and ongoing assistance for startups.

One of the standout features of the Airtree Explorer program is the unparalleled opportunity it offers participants to gain hands-on experience. Each participant is paired with an experienced investor, serving as their "buddy" throughout the program. Should a participant bring their own startup to the table, they are granted the remarkable chance to accompany their buddy on initial meetings. This firsthand exposure enables participants to witness the probing questions posed by investors, actively engage in discussions, and sharpen their own investment acumen.

This year's program places particular emphasis on regional startups, aligning with the mounting trend of increased investment activities beyond major cities, a phenomenon accentuated by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing that entrepreneurial brilliance transcends geographical boundaries, Airtree is committed to supporting the burgeoning startup ecosystem across the entirety of Australia. Despite the current disparity, with 87% of venture capital funds flowing into Sydney and Melbourne, Airtree is fervently working to rectify this imbalance.

Airtree firmly believes that the key to unlocking investments in a more diverse range of startups lies in fostering diversity among angel investors themselves. By expanding the pool of investors and promoting inclusivity, Airtree endeavours to ensure that crucial funding reaches businesses that might otherwise be overlooked. The program's robust data tracking mechanisms have already yielded promising results, with an impressive 50% of Explorer participants identifying as women and non-binary investors. This substantial increase in diversity has paved the way for the discovery and support of diverse startups and companies founded by underrepresented individuals.

To extend the program's impact even further, Airtree actively encourages participants to establish regional community hubs that can serve as focal points for ongoing angel investing endeavours beyond the program's duration. These local support networks will facilitate continuous collaboration, enabling participants to remain engaged in the startup ecosystem and discover innovative startups making significant contributions in non-metropolitan areas.

Jess Walker, the Community and Programs Manager at Airtree, emphasized the significance of the program's expansion beyond the firm's Surry Hills headquarters. Recognizing their limitations in discovering remarkable regional companies situated in Western Australia and Tasmania, Airtree is delighted to open up its educational resources to attract a broader range of angel investors. Walker further highlighted the empowering effect these investors have on their respective ecosystems and communities, amplifying their collective impact.

As the Airtree Explorer program opens its doors once again, Airtree's unwavering commitment to promoting diversity in angel investing and fostering a vibrant startup environment remains resolute. With a steadfast focus on accessibility, education, and support, Airtree aims to extend its reach and influence across diverse ecosystems and communities throughout Australia, empowering a new generation of angel investors to shape the future of the startup landscape.