If Team is the one of the most critical elements in a successful startup, does this principal also apply to the investor base - that the investor team should also be extraordinary?

We think Yes, the investor team is part of the critical presence in a startup and finding the right investor to team with you can be challenging. How do you find the right investors to be part of an investment and how does your group become part of the early stage investor ecosystem? The best place to start is the Angel Capital Association Summit, scheduled for April 17-19, 2013 in San Francisco. The theme is “Navigating Change for Angel Success” and the full agenda is here.

Among the “tax extenders” included in the American Tax Relief Act passed by Congress on January 1st to avoid the “fiscal cliff” was a 100 percent exemption for gains made in Qualified Small Business Stock. Effectively this means that you pay no taxes on gains from your investments that meet several criteria and the Alternative Minimum Tax does not apply for investments made in 2013 and in 2012 (so it is retroactive).

I want to make sure angels and small businesses are aware of this tax advantage, which is designed to increase investment in the innovative startups that create jobs in America. If you are interested in this program, PLEASE TALK TO YOUR ACCOUNTANT to ensure you have all the information you need to structure your investments to meet all requirements.