In 2019, a group of executives identified a need for angel funding to help West Virginia entrepreneurs. The vision was for a group—Country Roads Angel Network (CRAN)—to support West Virginia entrepreneurs who could benefit from mentoring and early-stage investments to continue developing their businesses. A nexus to West Virginia was required, but the type or area of business was not limited.
With the support of grants from the Massey Family Foundation and One Foundation, and working with New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA), a U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant was secured to provide a three-year grant to accelerate CRAN’s development. This financial support was used effectively, and in spite of the pandemic intervening shortly after CRAN was formed, the angel network now has 32 accredited investors with growth continuing and as of July 1, 2023, CRAN is a solely independent entity.
The Country Roads Angel Network (CRAN) is gaining statewide attention following a series of major announcements that continue to strengthen West Virginia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Platinum Level Corporate Partner and 2025 Annual Meeting Sponsor
The Country Roads Angel Network is a member of the Angel Capital Association (ACA). This professional association for active, accredited investors provides unparalleled access to trending ideas and professional knowledge to help improve returns and promote effective public policies for angels and start-ups. Although it is not a funding source, ACA provides entrepreneurs with an inside view into how angels think.
