Cherub, a novel online platform designed to connect angel investors with startup founders, has been created by Jaclyn Johnson and Angeline Vuong, professionals with extensive experience in the investment and startup spheres.
The platform offers a curated selection of promising startups for investors, while also offering founders opportunities to secure funding from a global pool of potential investors. Cherub aims to simplify the investment process and create a sustainable ecosystem for startup growth.
The creators boast significant histories in the investment and startup sectors with Johnson having founded and sold her startup and investing in several others, and Vuong having overseen product and growth at Opendoor for nearly five years.
The platform functions similarly to online dating apps, relying on an algorithm to pair founders and investors based on their preferences and shared interests, thus facilitating clearer and more efficient potential investment relationships. Cherub aims not only for surface-level compatibility but comprehensive compatibility on aspects such as investment style, industry preference, or growth stage.
Cherub’s alpha product was launched following a positive response to a testing phase conducted through a weekly newsletter. Around 20% of the 40 startups featured on the platform managed to secure funding, collectively bringing in $1.1 million.
Cherub: Bridging startups and investors online
Cherub gathered data on user engagement and feedback following the launch, which has led to the current version of the platform that includes 10 additional firms.
The platform aims to expand and feature 500 startups in the future and already has a total of 100 featured businesses. While the platform is free for investors, startups have to subscribe to a membership plan for access to various services and benefits.
Besides connecting startups and investors, Cherub assists founders in identifying suitable incubators and accelerators. The platform also has partnerships with Andreessen Horowitz, Dream Ventures, and New York Fashion Tech Lab. Cherub goes beyond being a mere networking tool, embodying a comprehensive approach to supporting the startup journey. The platform is intensely focused on fostering a sustainable and inclusive startup ecosystem.
