Empowering Local Innovators: Abilene Angel Network to Drive Growth and Job Creation

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Business Advocacy

October 17, 2024
Staff Reports

The city of Abilene is full of individuals who are fueled by the entrepreneurial spirit that is part of the very fabric of our community. To help nurture that spirit, the Abilene Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber’s Abilene Regional Growth Alliance have partnered with the Central Texas Angel Network (CTAN), Texas's leading angel investment network!

Every year, we see a new wave of innovators make their way into our community. Whether it’s in our colleges, medical facilities, or our Air Force base, potential entrepreneurs are consistently landing at our door, but often have no idea where to go to help get their ideas off the ground.

That is why we are excited to join forces with CTAN to foster our very own Abilene Angel Network. By combining CTAN's expertise in early-stage investments with the Chamber's extensive network of local businesses and resources, this collaboration will catalyze angel investing and startup support in Abilene and the surrounding areas.

"CTAN is excited to partner with the Abilene Chamber of Commerce and its Growth Alliance team to accelerate innovation and support founders, investors, and the ecosystem in West Texas," said Gary Forni, CTAN’s Board Chairman.

By fostering the Abilene Angel Network, we aim to create an environment where ideas can flourish and turn into successful businesses that contribute to the local economy.

Abilene Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Doug Peters, who also serves as President of the Growth Alliance, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We are pleased to build upon the growing relationship we have had with CTAN and look forward to the opportunities that this strategic partnership with the leading angel network in Texas can afford our region.”

Through this partnership, we believe several positive impacts will be made in our local communities. Job creation will be at the forefront, as startups are key drivers of employment opportunities. Entrepreneurs will gain access to angel investors, allowing them to secure the capital needed to take their ventures to the next level, fueling economic growth.

Moreover, the innovation this network will spark is bound to transform various industries in our region. Whether it's advancements in technology, healthcare, or other sectors, the Abilene Angel Network will serve as a catalyst for cutting-edge ideas. Knowledge transfer between seasoned investors and first-time entrepreneurs will strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, passing down valuable insights and best practices that help businesses thrive.

Upcoming Events:

  • Abilene Angel Network Kick Off at Cypress Street Station: October 22nd, 5:30 - 7:00 PM

  • Virtual Pitch Event for Top 8 Companies: Tuesday, October 29th, 5:00 – 7:30 PM CT

  • Angel Network Lunch & Learn in First Financial Bank Boardroom: Thursday, November 21st, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Join us at these events to be part of Abilene’s entrepreneurial growth and learn more about how the Abilene Angel Network can support innovators and startups in our region!