WHO WE ARE
The Bluegrass Angels is one of the most-active angel investing groups in Kentucky. Through our portfolio of Kentucky investments we syndicate with other local investors and angel groups nationwide. We are a volunteer-led group of skilled and experienced business leaders who find, fund and mentor innovative, high-tech Kentucky start-ups seeking long-term success and a financially viable exit strategy.
Based in Lexington, we draw members and invest in companies across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Kentucky benefits from having an organized group of angels that provide the first capital beyond friends and family. By leading deals BGA helps entrepreneurs to establish their deal structures, board structures, and organization. This helps pave the way for syndication and potential grant funding. BGA routinely performs due diligence as it evaluates deals that benefit our entrepreneur and syndication partners. Angel investors are a key funding option that keeps the startup environment thriving.
In Kentucky the Bluegrass Angels provide a pool of high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and investment funds with business experience who are looking for investment opportunities. Our members enjoy being involved with entrepreneurial ventures. The BGA provides a structured forum for such individuals to cooperatively source and vet deal flow.


OUR MISSION
To invest in Kentucky start-up technology companies who have identified a clear exit strategy, the ability to create strong financial returns for our members, and a promise to create new jobs for the Kentucky economy.
OUR GOALS
- Invest in Kentucky’s innovation economy, thereby creating jobs.
- Provide leadership and guidance for Kentucky technology entrepreneurs by turning ideas into companies.
- Provide ongoing coaching and stewardship for Kentucky start-ups.
- Make intelligent investments that are well vetted, prudent and achieve balanced risk/reward for founders, employees, and investors.


OUR HISTORY
The Bluegrass Angels, Inc. was founded in 2004 by local investors and community leaders who believed that early-stage investing could provide a meaningful return for investors while also spurring local economic growth. Individual members of the organization volunteer their time and expertise to review potential investments and assist entrepreneurs. BGA Venture Fund I raised $2 million in 2006 and funded 12 companies. Since 2010 BGA Fund II and III have raised $7.5 million and invested in 35 companies. BGA Fund IV raised $6.0 million and began making investments in 2018. This fund will allow BGA Fund IV to invest in a target of 5-7 companies a year through 2021.
LEADERSHIP TEAM
The Bluegrass Angels Leadership Team is led by the following members who assist with membership and investment activities.
Chris Young
Chris Young
David Goodnight
David Goodnight
Brian Evans
Brian Evans
Joe Noonan
Joe Noonan
Jo Ellen Hayden
Jo Ellen Hayden
Brian Luftman
Brian Luftman
Jennifer Dossett
Jennifer Dossett
BLUEGRASS ANGELS STAFF
The Bluegrass Angels are assisted by the following member who work with the association on a variety of integral tasks.