Angel Investing for Operators (Without Writing $50K Checks)'

​About the Session:

​In this Angel Investing 101 workshop, we’ll walk through everything you need to confidently write your first check as an angel investor—from understanding the fundamentals of public vs. private markets and why illiquid assets can offer outsized returns, to how angel investing actually works in practice. We’ll cover how to evaluate startups through a clear, repeatable framework (from your first 5-minute gut check to a full deal memo), break down key concepts like valuation, dilution, and deal terms (SAFEs, convertible notes, priced rounds), and review what “good” looks like across traction, go-to-market, and financials. You’ll learn how to build and manage a portfolio using power law dynamics, develop your own investment thesis, and source high-quality deal flow through networks and syndicates. We’ll also dig into diligence best practices, common pitfalls, and how to be a value-add angel post-investment. The session is highly practical, with real-world examples — helping you define your thesis, portfolio strategy, and first check size—so you leave not just informed, but ready to invest.

​About the Host:

​Ruffin Mitchener is an investor and creator at Brydge Club, empowering 200K+ women building and investing in the $20 trillion female economy. Ruffin began her career on the operating side at PeerStreet, an a16z-backed fintech platform before pursuing her MBA at UCLA Anderson. After business school, Ruffin pursued a career in venture capital with an emerging fund manager and single family office. Today she leads Brydge Club, a collective of female angels co-investing into portfolio companies like POCA, Alinea Invest, Bumo, Offe Market, & more.