The Performance of Angel-Backed Companies

We provide first-time evidence of the post-investment performance and survivorship profile of angel-backed companies. Using a unique database of 111 angel-backed companies that received angel investments between 2008 and 2012 and at least 3 years of post investment financial data, we show that both the performance and the probability of survival of investee companies, are positively affected by the presence of: 1) angel syndicates and 2) by the hands-on involvement of business angels. Differently, the lack of angel experience and the structure of equity provision negatively affect the development of new ventures. Our results provide insights on the contribution of angel investors to the development of new ventures.