THIS IS WHAT AN ANGEL LOOKS LIKE - Simone Castillo
Meet Pipeline Fellowship alumna Simone Castillo
Title: Senior Associate, International Development Assistance Services
Affiliation: KPMG
Describe the moment when you decided to become an angel:
When I learned about Pipeline’s mission, I saw the opportunity to continue my work with women and underserved communities while improving my investing acumen.
What investments have you made since graduating from the Pipeline Fellowship?
*Woman founder!
Company: Happily Ever BorroWED
Founder(s): Brittany Haas*
What are your investment deal-breakers?
Does your pitch tell a story? Is your board relevant and engaged?
What types of companies do you look to invest in?
Women/minority owned startups, social impact, and STEM.
What do you look for in an entrepreneur/founding team?
Coachability and the capacity to pivot.
How has your background played a role in your angel investing?
During high school, I was tasked with serving refreshments at my mother’s investment club meetings. It was then that I was introduced to the importance of investing and doing so with a group of capable, like-minded individuals. My interest in angel investing stems from this exposure and the desire to play a role in the advancement and development of women- and minority-led social ventures.
One piece of advice to an angel-in-training?
Jump in headfirst and don’t be intimidated by all the new information. Lean on your fellow angels for help.
One piece of advice to an entrepreneur looking for capital?
Be as transparent as possible. You should be able to clearly articulate your strengths and areas for growth.
How would you define a for-profit social venture?
A for-profit social venture is a business that provides a service/product with a sustainable benefit to the public.
Favorite quotation?
Don’t jump around your purpose, don’t simply step in it either. Walk so deep in your purpose that you’re covered in it from head to toe. —Paul Carrick Brunson
Random fact?
I have a twin brother.
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