In October, students in the Hatter Angels Investment Program traveled to Atlanta alongside Dr. Bill Andrews for the Venture Atlanta capital conference.

There, they had the opportunity to connect with and learn from founders and CEOs who were raising money for their businesses. Learning about these businesses is the first step of a semester-long project in which the students will present to the Hatter Angel Network cohort in December recommending one or more companies for investment.

“It’s a great opportunity for students to demonstrate their professionalism as well as their understanding of the early-stage investment process. Every year we have founders tell us that our evaluation process is more rigorous than most of the VCs they pitch to,” Dr. Andrews said.

This hands-on learning experience is crucial for the growth of our students both professionally and educationally.

“Venture Atlanta was an incredible experience and a great opportunity to connect with founders, investors, and innovators. The event provided valuable insight into emerging startups, investment trends, and the entrepreneurial mindset behind successful ventures,” said Jessica Nguyen, a student part of the Hatter Angel Network who went to the conference. “It was an inspiring environment to learn, network, and gain perspective on what it takes to build and scale a business.”

The Hatter Angel Network is a group of Stetson Alumni who invest together in early-stage companies. Alumni interested in becoming a Hatter Angel should contact [email protected]. Students interested in taking the course associated with the Hatter Angel Network should contact Dr. Andrews [email protected].