Rui Falcão is a dedicated angel investor, serving as the co-founder and managing partner of COREangels International and REDangels (recognized as the Best Angel Investment Vehicle in Portugal in 2021). Initially stemming from a background in software engineering, Rui emerged as a serial entrepreneur during the internet boom, actively participating as an entrepreneur and angel investor in over 40 startups within the technology and communications sectors. With a comprehensive understanding of the entrepreneurial cycle, Rui has navigated through the stages of founding, validation, growth, and internationalization, as well as encountering failures and achieving successful exits. Rui was nominated Angel of the Year 2023 by Investors Portugal.
Rui’s contributions as an entrepreneur have been recognized through various accolades in the early 2000s, including the Informatics and Creativity Award by Digital Equipment, Best CD-ROM of the Year, and Best Website for Children in Portugal. He also received sponsorship from the Secretary of State for Culture to develop musical computer systems assisted by artificial intelligence and to compose fractal music.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Rui is actively involved in volunteer activities at the Entrepreneur Students Association, which supports, mentors, and guides foreign students in Portugal.
Additionally, he has played pivotal roles as founder, board member, and advisory member of Investors Portugal, Professional Multimedia Association, Aveiro Business Angels CLUB, and Catholic Management Association (ACEGE).
Recently and parallel to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Rui did a PhD in angel investing, focusing on the Angel’s Perceived Investment Value.