Grand Angels: Fueling the Entrepreneurial Economy in West Michigan
Grand Angels, a venture capital and private equity firm based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to growing businesses and fostering economic growth in the state. Founded by Charles C. Stoddard, former CEO of Grand Bank, and serial entrepreneur Craig T. Hall, the company's mission is to support innovative companies throughout the West Michigan region by providing mentoring, strategic advice, expanding networks, and connections to customers, management, and venture capital.
Since its inception, Grand Angels has been committed to making "investments with a difference." To accomplish this, Stoddard and Hall recruited community leaders who shared their vision and were willing to join them in their quest. In 2005, Jody D. Vanderwel was brought on board to serve as the organization's president, a role she held until her retirement in 2016. Upon Vanderwel's departure, Tim Parker took over as the company's second president.
Today, Grand Angels boasts 65 active members and is supported by membership fees as well as generous corporate and academic sponsorships. The organization is a member of the Angel Capital Association, which is sponsored by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation (Kansas City, MO). The Angel Capital Association provides leadership and resources for angel investors across the country, further bolstering Grand Angels' ability to support and grow Michigan businesses.
Located at 40 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, US, Grand Angels is strategically positioned to serve the West Michigan region. As a venture capital and private equity firm, the company specializes in helping businesses in various industries achieve their full potential, thus contributing to the overall economic growth and development of the state.
For more information about Grand Angels and their initiatives, you can visit their website at http://www.grandangels.org. Through their various programs and investments, Grand Angels continues to play a vital role in the entrepreneurial economy of West Michigan, ensuring that the region remains a hub for innovation and business success.