Why Pitch to PAA

  • Our members have invested over $15M in 40+ companies

  • We value diversity - among founder backgrounds and in the type of companies that we fund. In 2020, 50% of PAA invested companies were founded by women. A substantial proportion of our portfolio also include people of color in leadership positions.

  • Our members bring value to the startups we fund through mentorship, networking and expertise.

  • We invest in follow on rounds. In 2020, 2 of our companies received follow on funding.

  • We invest in all sectors — ranging from healthcare to consumer services.

 

What we look for

PAA has a preference for startups with a strong Princeton connection. We will gladly consider any promising startups and aspire to invest in companies with diverse leadership.

How to apply

Application are open in March, August, and November. Submit an application through Gust and PAA members will evaluate your application. We usually select four companies to present at each of our pitch nights.  Companies are notified of our selections within a few weeks of the application deadline.

Pitch Night

CEOs and/or founders are expected to present at pitch night. Pitch nights are held several times a year and are currently virtual (hosted on Zoom). The format includes a pitch by each company, followed by moderated Q&A from members.

 

Diligence and Investment

If there is sufficient interest following pitch night, members will form a deal team led by a PAA member.  The deal lead works with the company to gather necessary information to make an informed investment decision. Each member makes their own informed decision whether or not to invest in the round. SPVs are formed when deal terms warrant them.