About The Angel Catalyst Team
Paul G. Silva - Managing Partner [LinkedIn | Twitter]
Angel Catalyst is lead by Paul Silva, who serves as the manager for all client angel groups. Paul has worked with the River Valley Investors of Springfield Massachusetts since 2004 and provided start-up consultation to the Boynton Angels of Worcester in 2006. Previously Paul co-founded All inPlay wehere he raised $250,000 in angel financing and profitably pioneered a new market. Outside of work, Paul volunteers as the Chairman of the University of Massachusetts Amherst Entrepreneurship Initiative, an organization teaching college students how to become successful entrepreneurs.
Sampling of Results For The River Valley Investors
- Created a Sustainable Organization – In 2004 Paul was tasked with helping the newly formed group find a sustainable operations model. Result: Once the group adopted the recommended model it saw significant increases in dealflow, membership activity, and an end to the "is this group going to make it?" discussions.
“When Paul came to RVI we were an early stage angel group, grappling over logistical and procedural questions and unable to take full advantage of the significant experience and connections within the group. Paul reorganized the group's structure and procedures to better utilize those assets to maximize our clout.”
-Joseph Cambi, Founding Members, The River Valley Investors
- Built Dealflow – In 2004 Paul was asked to double dealflow (number of new deals coming to the group's attention) from 21 to 42 deals per year. Result: In 2004 dealflow was tripled to 86 deals/year. Dealflow growth has continued ever since with 114 deals in 2005 and 175 deals in 2006.
“Paul has attracted and screened numerous deals (through a website he developed and administers) and has been extremely insightful in terms of determining which ones will be of interest to the RVI membership. His ‘coaching’ of the companies invited to present has without exception resulted in professional and informative presentations by the entrepreneurs.”
-Dr. Linda Peters, Member, The River Valley Investors
- Increased Membership – In 2006 Paul was asked to double the group's recruitment efficiency from 4 to 8 new members per year. Result: 9 new members recruited by year's end.
“Angel Catalyst's leadership was equally vital in improving our strategy and procedures regarding recruitment. He has not only helped attract and retain more members, he has helped us attract and retain quality members.”
-Joseph Cambi, Founding Member, The River Valley Investors
Sampling of Results For Economic Development Organizations
- Catalyzed Student Entrepreneurship – In 2007 Paul was asked by the University of Massachusetts' Entrepreneurship Initiative and the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation to create programs that would Expand student entrepreneurship. Result: By the close of 2007 more than a half dozen student-run companies went beyond all expectations and secured over $250,000 in financing, launched real products, and generated revenue.
- Trained Local Entrepreneurs – In 2007 Paul was asked by the Regional Technology Corporation of Springfield MA to create events that would teach local entrepreneurs the different "flavors" of capital and how to approach them. Result: The clients sighted the resulting half day event as one of the most impactful they had offered and contracted Angel Catalyst to provide the events again.
Corey J. Silva - Partner [LinkedIn]
Corey has helped lead, manage, and grow the River Valley Investors, and Angel Catalyst, since April 2006. He is also a freelance writer who's news reports, essays, investigative pieces, and editorials have been published in The Somerset Spectator, Coast magazine, SoCo magazine, and The Torch. Below are some testimonials from clients and collegues.
- “Corey's wordsmithing gave power and clarity to a recent Executive Summary he helped to craft for my company. His understanding of our business allowed him to place us - in writing - in the magnetic center of current energy trends. This led to the first stages of funding an ambitious project. His knowledge of the angel funding world and his connections to an extensive network of investors as well as service providers give his work focus and effectiveness. When the opportunity presents itself, we'll work with Corey again."
-Thomas Timmins President CTI Energy Services
- “I first met Corey through the LinkedIn network, and I must say he has been a true gem! Corey really knows his way around and through the Angel Investment industry and has been extremely willing to share his knowledge and expertise. I would highly recommend anyone/company searching for investment dollars to hook up with Corey.”
-Elaine Futrell G.G.T., Envisioneer/CEO, Cleared2Drive
- “Corey is a smart and energetic young guy who has done terrific work in helping to keep River Valley Investors operating smoothly and effectively. Highly recommended!”
-John Kole, Dealflow Director for The River Valley Investors, President at Merrimack Capital LLC.