2008/9/4 Fred Bauder <fredbaud(a)fairpoint.net>et>:
Amazingly we use the word "angel" for
such people, see
I think "angel" implies something more than just giving money. I
interpret it as including advice, usually to someone just starting out
from someone with lots of experience. Also, when there is money
involved, they usually expect a return on their investment.
Its original use was apparently in the British theatre. I've seen it used
for those who fund political projects, for example, in referring to rock
stars such as Bono. In the case of actual investors in startups, a advice
component could certainly come into play. Financial return is not
essential to the concept however.
At any rate, I see no problem at all in calling our major financial
supporters "angels" (Well, not really, obviously there is a religious
connotation which might be inappropriate)
Fred