Spartan Angel Network

The Spartan Angel Network connects experienced founders, alumni, and friends of MSU with early‑stage, MSU‑affiliated ventures—activating capital, expertise, and community to help founders build what’s next.

As a component of the Spartan Founders Club, the Angel Network is facilitated by the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation in partnership with the MSU Research Foundation, bringing disciplined deal flow, education, and founder support together in one coordinated ecosystem.

How Members Engage

Members engage through a range of high‑impact experiences designed to support founders while strengthening the Spartan entrepreneurial community:

Curated Pitch Sessions & Deal Flow
Members are invited to in‑person and virtual pitch forums featuring innovative, MSU‑affiliated startups seeking early‑stage capital. These sessions provide structured exposure to vetted opportunities and meaningful dialogue with founders.

Founder Support & Mentorship
Beyond capital, members contribute perspective and experience—serving as advisors, mentors, and strategic sounding boards for student and alumni ventures across stages and industries.

Early‑Stage Investment Opportunities
Members may participate in individual or syndicated investments through the Spartan Angel Network, supporting companies where Spartans see promise, momentum, and mission alignment.

Curated Gatherings & Community Building
Members connect through intentional gatherings that foster peer learning, collaboration, and relationship‑building with fellow investors, founders, and MSU partners.

Volunteer Engagement with Students & Alumni
Members can engage directly with Spartans through judging, coaching, classroom engagement, and experiential learning opportunities coordinated by the Burgess Institute.

Education & Professional Development
SAN members receive access to the Angel Capital Association, offering national‑level education, resources, and professional development to strengthen investing practice and outcomes.

Together, these experiences reflect one of the most visible expressions of Spartans helping Spartans, pairing belief with action to move ideas forward.

Membership & Participation

Participation in the Spartan Angel Network requires:

  • Active membership in the Spartan Founders Club
  • Accredited investor status per SEC guidelines
  • Completion of a member intake meeting
  • Execution of the Spartan Angel Network membership agreement

Questions?

For questions about participation, eligibility, or upcoming engagement opportunities, email Sean Fochtman, fochtma3@msu.edu.