Here’s the truth about angel investing:
It’s not always about spreadsheets or perfect timing. It’s about believing in ambitious founders early and learning as you go.
But building that 'gut feel' takes years of reviewing startups, meeting founders and making the right (and not so right) calls.
That’s why First Believers exists.
To fast-track those reps and help new angels sharpen their instincts with real experience.
Since 2010 we've invested in 250+ startups, with a collective portfolio value of over $3.5 billion. We review over 1,000+ startups annually and are proud to believe in ANZ's most ambitious founders.
Here’s our cheat sheet for starting your first startup investment:
Conviction Isn’t Given. It’s Built.
No one starts with a polished thesis or perfect pattern recognition. Conviction comes from reps - reviewing decks, meeting founders and getting feedback from seasoned investors. First Believers creates that environment for you, helping new angels sharpen judgement through real-world practice.
Community = Your Secret Weapon
Angel investing is rarely done solo. The real power comes from joining an angel investor community - one that shares deal flow, challenges thinking, and opens doors that would be hard to access alone.
It’s Not About Being an Expert - It’s About Getting Started
You don’t need a million-dollar fund to begin. With curiosity, some capital, and the right guidance, it’s possible to make a first angel investment and start building a portfolio with confidence.
Ready to Back Founders Early?
First Believers is where ambitious operators, future fund managers, and first-time angels take their first real steps into startup investing.
📍 Kick off in-person: Melbourne or Sydney
💻 Go deep online: 3-week virtual intensive
🧠 Hands-on learning: 700+ startups, real investment calls, world-class mentors
🤝 Lifetime community: a trusted circle of ANZ’s top early-stage investors
This isn’t just a course. It’s your entry point into Australia and New Zealand’s most high-trust angel investing community - and the fastest way to build your conviction as an investor.
🚀 Learn more about First Believers
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial product advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Angel investing carries risk, and you should seek independent financial or legal advice before making investment decisions.
