Investing in startups used to be something only the wealthy could do. For years, early-stage investing was limited to accredited investors with deep pockets. But things have changed. Thanks to new platforms and laws, everyday people now have access to startup opportunities that were once out of reach.
If you’ve ever dreamed of backing the next unicorn or simply diversifying your investment portfolio, you don’t need millions in the bank. You just need the right strategy. Here are ten practical ways to invest in startups without being a millionaire.
1. Join equity crowdfunding platforms
Equity crowdfunding has become one of the most popular ways for everyday investors to get into startups. Websites like SeedInvest, StartEngine, Republic, and Wefunder let you invest in early-stage companies for as little as $100. These platforms are regulated by the SEC and make it easy to browse, research, and fund startups from various industries.
Instead of just donating like on Kickstarter, you get real equity: ownership in the company. If the startup grows or gets acquired, you could earn a return on your investment. But like all startup investing, there are risks, so it’s wise to diversify across multiple startups rather than putting all your money into one.
2. Use Regulation A+ offerings
Another accessible option is Regulation A+ (Reg A+) offerings. These are public offerings of securities that allow startups to raise money from both accredited and non-accredited investors. They function almost like mini-IPOs and are open to the general public.
Some well-known brands have raised money this way, and the minimum investment can be low. Reg A+ offerings are usually listed on platforms such as Dalmore Group or SeedInvest, and they include detailed financial disclosures so you can make an informed decision.
3. Invest through venture capital syndicates
A venture capital syndicate is a group of investors who pool money together to invest in startups. Syndicates are often led by experienced investors who have access to quality startup deals. Platforms like AngelList make it possible for non-millionaires to co-invest with professional VCs by joining these syndicates.
Minimum investments usually range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the deal. This method gives you access to vetted startups that you likely couldn’t find on your own.
4. Buy startup shares on secondary markets
Once startups raise money from investors, some of their shares eventually make their way onto secondary markets like Forge Global or EquityZen. These platforms allow you to buy pre-IPO shares from early employees or investors looking to sell before the company goes public.
The entry point is often higher than crowdfunding (typically starting at $5,000 or more), but it’s still far more accessible than traditional venture capital. It also lets you invest in more mature startups that have already raised significant funding and built a track record.
5. Join a startup accelerator as a micro-investor
Startup accelerators like Y Combinator, Techstars, or 500 Global are known for discovering and mentoring promising startups. While you may not be able to invest in the accelerator directly, some offer ways to back their portfolios through special funds or community rounds.
Certain platforms also allow investors to buy into a fund that supports all the startups in a specific accelerator batch. That means you’re not betting on one company; you’re getting a slice of many at once.
6. Invest through SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles)
Special Purpose Vehicles, or SPVs, are investment structures used to pool money for a single startup or group of startups. They’re often organized by syndicate leads, angel investors, or investment platforms.
What’s great about SPVs is that they allow smaller investors to participate in deals they wouldn’t otherwise access. For example, Assure, AngelList, and Republic all offer SPVs with low minimums, sometimes under $1,000. While SPVs do have fees, they give you a direct stake in high-potential companies.
7. Support local startups in your community
You don’t have to look online to find a startup to invest in. Many local entrepreneurs are looking for backers in their own cities. Start by networking at local pitch nights, small business incubators, or startup competitions. If you live near a university or innovation hub, there may be many early-stage businesses looking for seed funding.
The minimum investment is often negotiable and can sometimes be as low as a few hundred dollars. By investing locally, you also get the benefit of face-to-face relationships and a chance to help grow your community’s economy.
8. Use revenue-based investing platforms
Revenue-based investing (RBI) is another innovative way to invest in startups, especially if you want to avoid waiting years for an exit. Instead of getting equity, you receive a portion of the company’s future revenue until your investment is paid back with a return.
Platforms like MainVest and Honeycomb Credit offer these types of investments, often targeting small businesses, restaurants, or consumer brands. Minimum investments can be under $100, and returns are paid back monthly or quarterly based on how the business performs.
9. Invest through public venture capital ETFs
If you prefer a more hands-off approach but still want exposure to startup-like companies, consider investing in publicly traded venture capital ETFs. These funds invest in newly public or late-stage startups with growth potential.
Some ETFs also hold shares of companies that went public via SPACs or direct listings. While you won’t be getting in as early as private investors, this is a low-barrier way to add startup-style exposure to your stock portfolio through your regular brokerage account.
10. Join community rounds via crowdfunding campaigns
Community rounds are startup funding rounds that invite customers and fans to become investors. These rounds are often run on platforms like Republic or Wefunder, and startups use them as a way to raise money while building brand loyalty.
Many consumer startups, especially in food, fashion, or tech, choose this route so that their biggest supporters can also be part-owners. These community rounds usually have low minimums, and because they’re public, they’re easy to follow, research, and track.
Bottom line
You don’t need to be a millionaire to invest in startups anymore. Thanks to the rise of equity crowdfunding, SPVs, secondary markets, and other modern tools, there are more accessible ways than ever to get involved in the startup world. That said, startup investing still carries risk. Many startups fail, and returns can take years, or never arrive.
The key is to start small, diversify, and learn as you go. Choose platforms that align with your goals, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or do your homework. Over time, you’ll build both confidence and experience, and you might just find yourself backing the next big success story.
