What is an Investment Lighthouse
Investment Lighthouses are platforms driven by Business Angel Networks (BANs) aimed at fostering innovation and collaboration. They facilitate access to curated startups, provide essential resources, ensure regulatory compliance, and sustain success in the European financing ecosystem.
Who is it for?
Investment Lighthouses are designed for investors seeking high-quality opportunities and startups looking for funding and support. They also benefit BANs aiming to expand their networks and enhance investment activities.
What are Investment Lighthouses for?
– Facilitate access to curated dealflow and opportunities.
– Engage in events and forums to build relationships and share knowledge.
– Connect with a diverse and robust network of stakeholders.
– Stay informed about the regulatory landscape and gain access valuable
Georgia’s startup ecosystem is rapidly maturing, supported by a strong public–private partnership and a vibrant angel network. At the heart of it is Axel – Georgian Business Angel Network, active since 2021, which now includes over 100 accredited investors and has deployed more than 3 million GEL (~$1.1 M) into Georgian tech ventures. The Innovation and Technology Agency (GITA) anchors the ecosystem with matching grants, accelerator support, and leading tax incentives. Combined with growing activity from accelerators, incubators, and international funds like 500 Global, Georgia offers a diversified and attractive investment climate.
Georgian dealflow spans across AI, SaaS, deep tech, agritech, and blockchain:
– Axel curates high-quality dealflow with 100+ angel members, and over 25 deals closed since launch.
– GITA’s Matching Grants Program has supported 279 startups with $15.9M, unlocking $217M in private investment.
– 500 Global in Eurasia, in partnership with GITA and Bank of Georgia, has accelerated around 70 startups since 2020.
These strong pipelines are reinforced by a growing number of accelerator graduates and international syndicates.
Georgia hosts a dynamic calendar of events connecting founders and investors:
– Axel’s monthly pitch sessions, investment workshops, and investor breakfasts.
– Annual Investment Ecosystem Conference, attracting ~500 angels and 3,000 guests in 2024.
– Numerous meetups and hackathons run through initiatives like Startup Georgia, Impact Hub Tbilisi, Startup Grind Tbilisi, and university I-Corps programs.
Strong infrastructure supports founders and investors alike:
– Business-friendly regulation: 30-minute business registration, one of the lowest corporate tax rates globally (9.9% on profits).
– Generous tax incentives: 10-year tax breaks (starting 0% → 10%), 300% R&D credits, 30% R&D cashbacks.
– Robust grant schemes: GITA’s Matching Grants up to $60K, regional Innovation Grants, and scaling support reaching through GITA 2.0.
– Angel education: Axel organizes workshops covering valuation, due diligence, syndication, and exits, supported by EU and World Bank learning programs.
Georgia offers rich collaboration pathways:
– Angel syndication: Axel bridges local and international angels, connecting with regional networks at EBAN.
– VC and institutional collaboration: Partnerships include Bank of Georgia, 500 Global, GITA, and Georgian Ventures.
– Academic and corporate innovation channels: GITA-backed tech parks and university programs via BTMU and Kutaisi International University top-up with corporate accelerator support.
– Government frameworks: Investment laws and EU trade agreements simplify cross-border investment access.
