By Frank Szivos, Angel Investor News Editor

Who: Sharon Shepard, Partner Boston Community Venture Fund

Where: Boston, Mass

Experience:  At 28 years old started her own business. Has been a CEO with many small companies. Served as senior manager of Compunetix, the world’s largest provider of audio and video tele communication. A successful business consultant with many springboard technology companies. As a venture capitalist has been an active investor in many later stage companies. Has a degree in engineering from MIT, beginning her career as an engineer. Has been involved in seven deals over the last two years. Her firm looks to make deals in a range of .5 million – 1 million. Has participated in deals between .5 million to 12 million. Has invested in companies in partnership with larger VC funds.

How: Has a great deal of entrepreneurial experience and knows what it takes to run a small business. After running several businesses moved to the investing side. Also developed critical investing experience as a consultant to start up technology companies. Met her two future partners while consulting on a deal. Shifting from entrepreneur to investor, she prefers to invest in socially responsible businesses that create jobs and provide services to low and moderate income communities.

Tips for Entrepreneurs: Looking to make deals in a wide range of interests. BCVF has invested aggressively in biotech firms, but also owns a magazine on healthy eating. Judges investment opportunities on solid business plans and an experience management team. Sees a great deal of money available for later stage companies but must have a solid business plan and a track record of customers. Sees a challenge for early stage companies in finding money from VCs. Entrepreneurs should look to angels and invest their own money as startups. Boston Community Venture Funds also wants to consider minority and female run companies to add to its investment portfolio.

Tips for Investors: Know your companies and the markets you’re investing in. Due diligence is paramount. Look for a sound management team in prospective businesses, which is typically the key component for successful companies. Recommends investing in socially responsible companies that benefit minorities and low-income communities.

Contact: Sharon@bcvfund.com