I love the startup world, a place where people are driven to create a better way. I find that the best leaders are fueled either through passion of the subject area or through frustration with the current solutions.

I've heard many out there dog on startups who look to use Reg CF or Reg A+ for raising rounds as being "the bottom of the stack that the angels, VCs, and PEs passed on." While this is true for some (and def some never even made it that far. Some go this route for other reasons...

While angel/VC/PE money is great and their business management expertise is super valuable to a new startup who's just trying to get some initial market traction, it all comes at a cost. Often in the form of board seats, control of the company, and vision of future direction.

Utilizing Reg CF platforms like @SeedInvest @StartEngineLA @joinrepublic @Wefunder @netcapital etc allows startups to raise capital, while not giving up control or seats.

B/c raising in this way allows the masses to invest, it also helps them raise brand awareness and get support of potential customers/market experts as they are now vested in the success of the companies future.

Two I invested in and that share the energy space with me are @miqrotech and @HyperSciences. Both great companies w/ awesome tech and teams that are getting some real traction. Some of their (publicly announced) partnerships include @Chevron @Shell @NASA with others in works.

It's been great watching them both set and achieve goal after goal. Super excited to see where they can take it from here.

Long story long, find people and ideas that inspire you. If you can't work for them, invest in them. It will be way more fulfilling than just buying some $VTI $SPY.
/end rant