Angels Founder Is Honored

Fred Haney, a venture capitalist and founding member of the Tech Coast Angels, has been named “Mentor/Angel of the Year” by the Orange County chapter of the American Electronics Assn.

“He’s been an influential person in the development of companies in Orange County,” said Phil Beaudoin, executive director of the local American Electronics chapter. “He’s made a difference.

Haney, 58, has helped start, fund and guide several local technology companies over the last 15 years. Between 1984 and 1991, he ran 3i Ventures in Newport Beach, a subsidiary of the London-based venture capital firm 3i Group PLC. During that time, Haney’s firm invested $80 million in 60 early stage companies, including six in Orange County. In 1985, he founded the Monday Club, a monthly networking lunch with more than 60 members that continues to this day.

Haney has served on the board of directors of eight Orange County companies, including Rainbow Technologies in Irvine. “I enjoy the creative process and helping people move their businesses forward,” he said. “And, of course, I enjoy making some money.”

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Marc Ballon covers small business and entrepreneurial issues for The Times. He can be reached at (714) 966-7439 and at marc.ballon@latimes.com.