We Help Bruins Invest as Angels in the Most Promising Bruin-Led Startups

 

Bruin Angels is an official organization under the UCLA Alumni Association connecting accredited angel investors with top Bruin-led startups emerging from the UCLA ecosystem.

 

We support UCLA’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by engaging investors through a highly curated, research-driven approach:

  • Pre-screened startup investment opportunities
  • Educational programming and networking
  • Collaboration with peer groups to amplify impact

 

To learn more about Bruin Angels, sign up for our mailing list—or, better yet, become a member.

We facilitate; You Invest

 

Bruin Angels is led by a volunteer Board of Directors with deep expertise in venture capital and early-stage company building. The board leverages its expertise to cultivate relationships with high-potential, Bruin-led startups seeking early-stage capital.

Angel tier members receive this curated deal flow on a monthly basis, featuring pre-screened companies along with executive summaries and supporting materials. These select founders are invited to present at monthly pitch sessions, after which interested members may participate in due diligence. Companies that successfully complete due diligence may receive an investment offer.

Investments are made through a Special Purpose Investment Vehicle (SPIV) created and administered by Bruin Angels. The SPIV serves as the company’s sole investor on behalf of participating members, providing a streamlined investment structure. Returns are distributed to members on a pro rata basis unless otherwise agreed, with a portion of proceeds at exit reserved for UCLA, subject to member opt-out.

This model delivers clarity and efficiency for all stakeholders. Members benefit from defined terms and predictable processes, companies gain investor relations and simplified capitalization through a single SPIV investor, and UCLA shares in the success of its entrepreneurial community.

If you are an alumnus, student, or friend of UCLA interested in angel investing, we invite you to join Bruin Angels and support the next generation of Bruin-founded innovation.

Members

Bruin Angels actively seeks engaged members to grow and strengthen our community. As an affiliated organization of the UCLA Alumni Association, all member expenses are treated as tax-deductible contributions to the university. These contributions support the ongoing operations of Bruin Angels, including staffing, events, technology infrastructure, and administrative resources.

Members are encouraged to contribute beyond the minimum membership dues when possible, helping ensure the long-term sustainability and impact of the organization and its mission.

We invite you to apply for membership and play a meaningful role in advancing the UCLA entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Startups Seeking Funding

Apply Now!

If you are a Bruin-led startup seeking funding, please apply to be reviewed by the Bruin Angels using the button below.

Leadership

Matt Sferrazza
President
Rod Ponce
Vice President
Vinnie Shahzad
Executive Director
Trish Halamandaris
Anderson Relations Chair
Nikki Lin
Life Sciences Relations Chair
Brija Johnson
Campus Relations Chair
David Franklin
Marketing Chair
Marion Patricio
Membership Chair
Gloria Ko
UCLA Alumni Assoc. Staff Liaison

Our Partners

Events