Membership Admission Criteria

A selective, merit-based review process for exceptional entrepreneurs and angel investors

A Message from the Founder

"The Club is not for everyone. It is for those who have proven themselves in the arena—founders who have built, scaled, and led; investors who have backed vision with capital and wisdom. We seek individuals who understand that true success is measured not just in returns, but in impact, integrity, and the legacy we leave behind."

"If you meet our criteria, you are not just joining a network—you are entering a brotherhood of the world's most ambitious minds. Welcome to the inner circle."

Jay Dengle

Founder, SSOAI

Membership in the Club is granted through a selective, merit-based review process. The Club admits Entrepreneurs and Angel Investors under separate qualification tracks, each with defined eligibility standards. Admission is limited and competitive.

Entrepreneur Track — Admission Criteria

Applicants applying under the Entrepreneur Track must meet all of the following criteria:

1. Founder or Executive Role

The applicant must be a founder, co-founder, CEO, or senior executive with primary decision-making authority in an operating business.

2. Operational Business Activity

The company must be active and operating, with documented business activity such as:

  • Product or service in market
  • Paying customers or users
  • Active contracts, partnerships, or commercial operations

3. Demonstrated Business Success or Scale

Evidence of business performance, including at least one of the following:

  • Revenue growth
  • Team expansion or job creation
  • Successful fundraising rounds
  • Market penetration or geographic expansion

4. Professional Recognition or Industry Standing

The applicant must demonstrate recognition as a business leader through:

  • Media coverage
  • Speaking engagements or panels
  • Awards, accelerators, or competitive programs
  • Advisory or mentorship roles

5. Documented Impact Beyond Routine Operations

The applicant must show measurable impact, such as:

  • Introduction of innovative business models
  • Industry influence
  • Cross-border or international business activity
  • Contribution to ecosystem development (mentorship, community building, etc.)

6. Selective Nomination or Referral

Admission requires nomination or endorsement by:

  • An existing Club member, or
  • A recognized entrepreneur, investor, or industry leader

Angel Investor Track — Admission Criteria

Applicants applying under the Angel Investor Track must meet all of the following criteria:

1. Active Angel Investment Activity

The applicant must be an active private investor making personal equity investments in early-stage or growth-stage companies.

2. Verified Investment History

Applicants must demonstrate a documented track record, such as:

  • Investments in multiple startups or private companies
  • Participation in angel syndicates or investment groups
  • Lead or co-lead investor roles

3. Capital Deployment and Risk Exposure

Evidence of meaningful financial commitment, including:

  • Personal capital invested (not institutional only)
  • Early-stage or pre-institutional funding involvement

4. Strategic or Advisory Contribution

The applicant must provide value beyond capital, such as:

  • Board or advisory board participation
  • Strategic guidance to founders
  • Operational, financial, or market expertise

5. Professional Standing and Peer Recognition

Recognition as an investor or business leader demonstrated by:

  • Referrals from founders or co-investors
  • Media mentions or public profiles
  • Participation in recognized investment networks or events

6. Selective Nomination or Referral

Admission requires nomination or endorsement by:

  • An existing Club member, or
  • A founder, investor, or business leader with established credentials

General Membership Standards

Applicable to all applicants

Limited and Selective Membership

The Club maintains a capped membership and admits only a limited number of new members annually.

Merit-Based Selection

Admission is based solely on professional qualifications and documented achievements. Membership fees, if any, do not influence admission decisions.

Ethical Conduct and Reputation

Applicants must demonstrate professional integrity and ethical business practices.

Formal Review Process

All applications are reviewed by a designated Membership or Advisory Committee and approved through a documented selection process.

Ready to Apply?

If you meet the criteria and are ready to join the world's most exclusive network of entrepreneurs and investors, submit your application today.

Submit Your Application