Empowering the next generation of angel investors
Get started on your angel investing journey today with the ĀVA Investment Academy
In-person & Virtual Investing Courses
Exclusive half day and full day courses teaching you angel investing
Virtual Learning Lounge Sessions
Continued education and expert-led discussions
A Dedicated Resource Hub
Access to investor frameworks, case studies, and deal insights
A Thriving Investor Community
Join a network of hundreds of graduates and like-minded investors at our live events
Our Story
Arāya Ventures was born from a simple yet powerful idea: angel investing should be accessible to everyone, not just insiders.
What you will learn
Our Angel Investing Masterclass includes:
Find High-potential Investment Opportunities
Engage in Real-World Case Studies
Understand the Legal Aspects of Investing
Develop an Investor Mindset & Overcome Biases
Add Value Beyond Capital Through Networking, Mentorship, and Strategic Guidance
Build and Manage a Diversified Portfolio
Join a Thriving Community of Investors
The AVA course takes you through nine key modules to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to invest wisely:
01 Introduction to Angel Investing
→ Understanding angel investing as a concept and practice
→ The role of angel investors in funding early-stage start-ups
→ Dispelling myths about angel investing and addressing common biases
02 Deal Analysis and Assessment
→ Frameworks for analysing potential investments
→ Evaluating start-ups without extensive financial data or revenue history
→ Key factors to consider
03 Accessing Deals
→ Identifying start-ups through angel networks, syndicates, and personal networks
→ Leveraging professional and personal connections to find opportunities
→ Tools and platforms for sourcing deals
04 Legal Considerations
→ Introduction to legal terminology and deal structures
→ Managing risks through diversification and understanding investment agreements
05 Adding Value Post-Investment
→ Supporting start-ups beyond capital investment
→ Strategies for networking, recruitment, and offering mentorship
→ Building a collaborative relationship with founders
06 Practical Case Studies
→ Live due diligence sessions with real start-ups
→ Reviewing pitch decks
→ Discussing successes and challenges faced by experienced investors
07 Investor Mindset and Superpowers
→ Identifying personal strengths and contributions as an investor
→ Recognising unconscious biases in decision-making
→ Developing confidence and overcoming imposter syndrome
08 Building a Portfolio and Measuring Success
→ Strategies for constructing a diversified portfolio
→ Evaluating the return on investment over time
→ Insights into scaling involvement and preparing for exits
09 What’s Next? Community and Networking
→ Post-course engagement through events and resources
→ Access to a growing community of hundreds of graduates for collaboration and idea-sharing
→ Ongoing education and opportunities for further investment learning
Featured AVA Courses
Our courses are designed to help you build confidence, learn practical investment frameworks, and connect with a powerful network of investors.
* Prices vary based on instructor, location, and any subsidised costs by regional partners. *
Meet Your Instructors
All our instructors areactive angel investors with real-world investing experience
Our team of instructors is growing – more to be announced soon!
Rupa Popat
Founder & Managing Partner, Arāya Ventures
Teaches in:
London, Dubai, Riyadh
Investment Thesis:
Health, FinTech, Commerce and Future of Work
Carmel Rafaeli
Founding Partner, The Table
Teaches in:
London
Investment Thesis:
Sustainability, Climate & Female Founders
Nina Patel
Product, Technology, Innovation Leader & NED
Teaches in:
London
Investment Thesis:
Female Founders
Maya Ghosn Bichara
Purpose-Driven Investor, Advisor & Coach
Teaches in:
Riyadh
Investment Thesis:
Health, Wealth and Self-Care
Reviews that speak volumes
Don’t just take our word for it, hear what our graduates say about us
“I left the course feeing empowered, knowledgeable and ready to embark on my own investment journey.”
Vasanti, CEO
“I highly recommend the AVA programme for organisations committed to empowering their female leaders to explore angel investing – which is so much more than just writing a cheque. It’s a great way to give something back, and support innovation and entrepreneurship.”
Debbie Saunders, Brand Strategist
“This course provides crucial information if you are serious about pursuing angel investing. From learning about due diligence to strategy and diversification, it’s packed full of information. I learnt that it’s important to surround yourself with experienced people who know what they are doing. The course is also a great place to meet other investors.”
Rachel Elliott
“If you’ve thought about angel investing and found it intimidating, do this course. Rupa demystifies the process and leaves you inspired to start building your own portfolio.”
Jessica Barlow
“Best training course I’ve ever been on.”
Rupal Kantaria, Oliver Wyman
“A phenomenal angel investing course. The educational aspect was empowering. Rupa’s deep understanding and ability to bring empathy truly resonated.”
Managing Director, Investment Bank
“Rupa, you were a fab presenter and teacher! It was great to meet other graduates and see firsthand the impact you’re making to expand the network of angel investors. Plus, it was the first time in my career where I wasn’t the minority in the room – felt very empowering!”
Investment Manager, British Business Bank
“Angel investing feels way more accessible since doing this course.”
Mamta Patel, HSBC
“Everything you need to know when starting your angel investment journey and such a diverse community of women. We were thrilled to host this at HSBC Innovation Banking.”
Ariella Young, HSBC Innovation Banking
98%
of graduates felt more confidentmaking investment decisions
250+
graduates have joined our exclusive investor community
70%
of participants made their first angel investmentwithin 6 months
85%
of attendees say the due diligence framework and real-world case studies were the most valuable part of the course
#1 choice
for new investors looking to learn, connect, and invest with confidence
Diverse Network
Graduates from London, Dubai, Glasgow, Riyadh, Toronto & beyond