IRVINE, Calif., July 14, 2009 – Tech Coast Angels (TCA), the nation’s largest angel investor network, today announced that David Friedman, a leading technology marketing and operations executive for Fortune 500 technology, software and services companies, has become a member. Friedman has served as a senior executive at ATX Group, Connexion by Boeing and U.S. Cellular, leading major technology launches and worldwide initiatives, including pioneering industry-first technologies.
While at Connexion by Boeing, he was part of the executive team that commercialized the first in-flight Internet (Wi-Fi) services on board commercial aircraft around the world. With more than 30 years in the technology arena, Friedman’s marketing and strategic management expertise brings added value to the Tech Coast Angel network and its portfolio of early-stage companies.
“I am excited about becoming a part of TCA. As we exit the recession, technology and innovation will result in new companies emerging as leaders. Small companies and early-stage companies, in particular, will lead the way,” said Friedman. “TCA understands that the key is not only helping to fund these companies, but also help them as an advisor on the board or even as an extension of their operational executive team. Angel investors like TCA members can be more creative and provide a wider range of opportunities and assistance to these companies. I’m looking forward to joining them in this venture.”
TCA member Raymond Chan said, “We look forward to David’s input on all the network’s investment opportunities, particularly those in the tech and services areas and I welcome another marketing expert to our team of professionals. The best value we offer to our portfolio companies is the seasoned expertise available through our network, and David’s background and experience make him a terrific addition.”
TCA members offer expertise and mentoring to young, high-growth companies. Friedman has devoted much of his career to developing high-performance cross-functional teams and serving as a mentor to younger managers who will become the next generation of business leaders. He is a mentor with the UC Irvine Graduate School of Business Mentoring program and is active in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Orange County.
A New York native, Friedman now lives in San Juan Capistrano, Calif. with his wife and family.
About Tech Coast Angels
Tech Coast Angels, https://tcaventuregroup.com, is the largest angel investor group in the United States. Its members provide funding and guidance to more early-stage, high-growth companies in Southern California than any other investment group. TCA members invest in companies in a wide range of industries, including the life sciences, biotech, IT, services, retail, Internet, financial, software, media, consumer products and tech startups.
TCA members give companies more than just capital; they also provide counsel, mentoring and access to an extensive network of potential investors, customers, strategic partners and management talent. TCA has more than 250 members, including its venture capital affiliates, in five networks in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Westlake/Santa Barbara and the Inland Empire. More information on investment with Tech Coast Angels can be found at https://tcaventuregroup.com or at twitter.com/techcoastangels.
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