At GBA LLP, we regularly work with entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals who are passionate about innovation, business, and community growth. Yet many do not realize that angel investing—supporting early-stage start-ups through capital and mentorship—is a powerful way to do just that.
To help demystify this space, we sat down with Jesse, the Executive Director at Angel One Network. Based in Burlington, Ontario, Angel One Network is a not-for-profit membership group of accredited investors that connects innovative founders with forward-thinking funders. Its mission is to support entrepreneurial success and drive economic growth across Canada. Jesse Rashotte, operations manager at Angel One Network, shared insights on what angel investing is, why it matters, and what is on the horizon for this dynamic and rewarding world.
Jesse: At its core, angel investing is when accredited individuals invest their own money into early-stage, high-potential start-ups in exchange for equity or convertible debt. These are usually companies in the pre-seed or seed stage that are not quite ready for venture capital but have a product, traction, and big growth plans.
The benefit to start-ups is straightforward—they gain access to funding, but also often mentorship, networks, and strategic guidance from seasoned professionals.
The benefit to angel investors is twofold: the potential for strong financial returns, and the opportunity to support innovation, job creation, and growth in industries they care about within their local business community.
Jesse: Great question. Angel investing is not for everyone, but for those who qualify and are looking for more than traditional investments, it can be incredibly fulfilling.
It is not just about financial returns (though that is certainly a goal). Many of our members are entrepreneurs themselves or have industry experience and want to give back by helping the next wave of founders succeed through mentorship as well as funding.
There is also a strong sense of community and collaboration among our members—people share deals, insights, and due diligence. It is an active and engaging environment.
GBA: Beyond individual benefits, what kind of impact does angel investing have on the broader economy and local communities—especially here in Canada?
Jesse: Angel investing plays a critical role in Canada’s innovation pipeline. Start-ups often face a funding gap early on—banks are generally more risk-averse, and venture capital firms usually come in later. Angels fill that gap.
By funding and mentoring start-ups, angels help bring new technologies, jobs, and services to market. Many of these start-ups stay local, hire locally, and contribute directly to their regional economies.
In Ontario alone, angel groups have collectively invested hundreds of millions into companies that have gone on to scale, export, and create jobs across the province.
Jesse: There is always a buzz when a new cycle begins—new companies, new ideas, new opportunities. Personally, I am excited about seeing more start-ups focused on sustainability, AI, and health tech—sectors where innovation can have a massive impact.
We are also seeing more diverse founders and inclusive innovation, which is something Angel One is actively encouraging. It is inspiring to watch investors and founders come together to drive real change, not just for profit, but for people and planet.
If you are interested in meeting visionary founders and helping fuel the next wave of startups, then join us at one of our meetings and see if Angel One is the right fit for you.
Angel investing is more than writing cheques—it’s about building the future. Whether you’re an accredited investor curious about joining, or a founder looking to scale your business, organizations like Angel One Network are opening doors to possibility, purpose, and partnership.
To learn more, visit www.angelonenetwork.ca
Schedule a call today with one of our team members to discuss your accounting or tax needs – For More Details, Click Here.
This blog is not meant to provide specific advice or opinions regarding the topic(s) discussed above. Should you have a question about your specific situation, please discuss it with your GBA advisor.
GBA LLP is a full-service accounting firm in the Greater Toronto Area, but we primarily service all of Ontario as well as the rest of Canada virtually, except Quebec. Our team of over 30 provides audits and reviews of financial statements, compilations of financial information, and corporate tax returns. We provide specialized corporate tax and succession planning for small and medium businesses, in addition to general advisory services.
If you would like to schedule a call to discuss your accounting or tax needs with one of our team members, please complete the free, no-obligation meeting request on this page.
