Do You Have What It Takes to Attract Investors to Your Startup?

Angel Challenge: A Unique Opportunity to Secure Funding and Build Your Network

For startups looking to attract serious investors, Angel Challenge presents an incredible opportunity. With a pool of 20 knowledgeable business professionals ready to invest up to 1 million NOK* collectively in one standout startup, this program is designed to not only provide funding but also mentorship, knowledge, and connections that could define your entrepreneurial journey.

Here’s everything you need to know to get involved and make your pitch irresistible.

The Program Overview

Angel Challenge is a structured, four-phase program aimed at turning startups into irresistible investment cases while connecting them with top-tier angel investors.

Phase 1: Application and Preselection

Start by submitting your application and pitch. From these, the organizers and investors will carefully select the top 20 startups that will advance to the next stage.
What You’ll Need to Qualify:

• A dedicated team
• A registered company
• Some level of concept validation
• An existing MVP (Minimum Viable Product)
• A company that’s a few years old at most
• Time to participate in all program workshops

If you meet these criteria, this could be the opportunity to get your startup in front of some of the most active investors in Norway.

Phase 2: Startup Mentoring and Investor Pitching

The selected 20 startups will attend a one-day mentoring session, followed by two days of pitching.

• Receive valuable feedback from experienced investors.
• Learn by watching other startups pitch their ideas.
• Network with both investors and fellow entrepreneurs.

Phase 3: Due Diligence

Here’s where the magic happens. The five startups that make it past Phase 2 will receive intensive mentoring from the investors over five evenings.

• Gain insights on what makes a startup an irresistible investment case.
• Work directly with groups of 2–5 investors who will dedicate hours of focused feedback to help refine your business.
• Learn about investment structures, like convertible notes, that will guide your future funding journey.

This phase is about more than securing funding—it’s about sharpening your ability to attract investment, both now and in the future.

Phase 4: The Finale

The grand finale is where the five finalists showcase their progress and investment readiness.

• Compete to win the 1 million NOK* group investment.
• Highlight your growth as a startup and solidify your case for future investors.

Even if you don’t win, the connections, knowledge, and visibility you gain could lead to side investments or other opportunities.

Why Participate?

1. Secure Investment: The top prize is a convertible note investment of up to 1 million NOK.*
2. Valuable Mentorship: Investors help refine your pitch and business model.
3. Build Your Network: Meet seasoned investors, fellow entrepreneurs, and mentors who can open doors for your startup.
4. Learn and Grow: Even if you don’t win, you’ll leave with a stronger understanding of the startup ecosystem and what it takes to attract investment.

FAQ

What does the * in 1 million NOK mean?*
The final investment amount depends on the number of participating investors. Each commits 50,000 NOK, but the total may vary depending on participation.

Is it worth applying, even if the chances of winning are low?
Absolutely! Angel Challenge is designed to prepare you for future investment opportunities. Whether or not you secure the final prize, you’ll leave with invaluable knowledge and connections.

Who can apply?
Startups meeting these criteria are most likely to succeed:

• A committed team and a registered company
• Concept validation and an MVP
• A few years old at most
• Availability for all program workshops

What does it cost?
Participation is free for all startups. The winning startup pays a program fee of 50,000 NOK, which is offset by the organizers’ own investment of the same amount.

Ready to Take the Challenge?

Angel Challenge is more than a competition; it’s a transformative experience designed to help you build an investment-ready startup while making meaningful connections in Norway’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

If you’re ready to pitch your idea and take your business to the next level, don’t wait—apply now!

(Angel Challenge has been a cornerstone of Norway’s startup ecosystem since 2012, facilitating over 150 events to foster collaboration between startups and investors.)