Yi-Jian Ngo, a prominent figure in the Seattle startup community and leader of the Alliance of Angels (AoA), is stepping down from his role to prioritize his family. In his place, Maren Nelson, a board member at AoA, has taken on the interim executive director role. AoA, which was founded in 1998 under the Technology Alliance, spun out as its own entity in 2012. Ngo joined AoA in 2011, following experiences at AT&T and Microsoft. Under his guidance, AoA has significantly grown its membership from 60 to 180 investors, now investing $4-to-$6 million in startups each year.
The investors at AoA review over 150 deals annually and make individual investment decisions in up-and-coming technology startups located across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The members of AoA have collectively invested more than $125 million in over 250 startups, leading to more than 40 successful exits from companies such as DocuSign and Elemental Technologies. The angel investor group is currently in the process of raising its third annual “Innovation Fund,” a structured investment vehicle that was first launched in 2022. The initial fund raised $1.3 million, followed by $1.9 million for the second fund.
Ngo’s departure signifies a shift within AoA as a new leader steps in during this transition period. Ngo’s dedication to AoA has played a pivotal role in the group’s growth and success, expanding its reach and impact within the startup ecosystem. The focus on supporting emerging tech startups and providing crucial funding has been at the core of AoA’s mission, driving innovation and economic growth within the region. The evolution of AoA under Ngo’s leadership has led to significant investments in promising startups, contributing to the overall entrepreneurial landscape in the Pacific Northwest.
With the continuous support of its members and the success of its investments, AoA has established itself as a key player in the angel investing community. The group’s ability to identify potential high-growth startups and provide the necessary resources and guidance has been instrumental in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. As AoA raises its third annual “Innovation Fund,” there is a continued commitment to supporting and nurturing the next generation of tech startups, driving economic development and creating opportunities for growth. The legacy of Yi-Jian Ngo and the leadership of Maren Nelson will undoubtedly shape the future direction of AoA and its impact on the startup ecosystem.
The departure of Ngo will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on AoA, as his leadership and guidance have been instrumental in the group’s growth and success. As Nelson steps into the role of interim executive director, there will be an opportunity for new perspectives and ideas to shape the future direction of AoA. The continued support and engagement of its members will be crucial in maintaining AoA’s position as a key player in the angel investing landscape, driving innovation and growth in the startup ecosystem. The legacy of Ngo’s leadership will continue to inspire and guide the next phase of AoA’s journey, supporting entrepreneurs and startups in realizing their full potential.
In conclusion, the departure of Yi-Jian Ngo from the Alliance of Angels marks a significant milestone for the organization and highlights the impact of his leadership on its growth and success. With Maren Nelson stepping in as interim executive director, there is an opportunity for a new chapter in AoA’s journey, building on its legacy and continuing to support emerging tech startups in the region and beyond. The ongoing commitment of AoA to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship will be essential in driving economic growth and creating opportunities for startups to thrive. As Ngo moves on to prioritize his family, his contributions to AoA and the Seattle startup community will be remembered and celebrated, shaping the future of angel investing and startup support in the Pacific Northwest.
