KEY TAKEAWAYS: Gulf South Angels surpassed $35 million invested across 76 early-stage companies since 2014. The network invested $4.1 million in 14 companies during the first half of 2026. Membership expanded to more than 185 accredited investors across 21 states following the integration of M EDA Angels. Investors celebrated three liquidity events, including the SpaceX IPO and acquisitions of TheraB Medical and VKTRY.   New Orleans-based Gulf South Angels has surpassed $35 million in total investments since its founding, marking a milestone as the angel investor network expanded its membership and investment activity during the first half of 2026. The nonprofit investment group announced it invested $4.1 million across 14 companies during the first six months of the year, bringing its cumulative investments to more than $35 million in 76 early-stage companies since it was founded in 2014. Gulf South Angels said its network has grown to more than 185 accredited investors across 21 states. The organization said it ranks among the nation’s top 10 angel investor groups by capital invested, according to the Angel Capital Association. The group’s first-half investments included Access Vascular, ADVANO, Anuncia Medical, BiVACOR, Illuminaire Biotech, Impulse Space, JuneBrain, Magrathea Metals, Tray Away, Varda Space Technologies, Vellum Health, SalivIQ, X-Bow and Balerion Space Ventures Fund II. The organization also completed the integration of MEDA Angels, a Washington, D.C.-based network of physicians, healthcare executives and healthcare-focused investors. According to Gulf South Angels, the combination expands its national presence and strengthens its expertise in healthcare investing, one of its largest investment sectors. “The first half of 2026 reflects the continued growth and strength of Gulf South Angels,” said Mike Eckert, chairman of Gulf South Angels. “We’re seeing exceptional deal flow, welcoming new members from across the country and creating more opportunities for investors to participate in some of the most innovative companies in our country. The continued growth of our network and investment activity reflects both the quality of companies seeking capital and the value Gulf South Angels provides in sourcing and evaluating opportunities.” The network also reported three liquidity events during the first half of the year. Investors realized returns through the SpaceX initial public offering and the acquisitions of portfolio companies TheraB Medical and VKTRY, according to the organization. Founded in 2014, Gulf South Angels focuses on connecting accredited investors with early-stage companies across sectors including healthcare, aerospace, software, advanced manufacturing and consumer products. The organization said it has recorded 19 portfolio exits while continuing to support startup companies throughout the Gulf South and beyond. ...read more read less