There's no one-size-fits-all answer to how much money you should invest in a startup. The ideal amount depends on several factors, including:

Your Financial Situation:

Investment Portfolio: Consider the size and risk tolerance of your overall investment portfolio. Startups are generally high-risk investments, so it's best to allocate a small percentage of your total portfolio to them.
Risk Tolerance: How comfortable are you with the possibility of losing your entire investment? Startups have a high failure rate, so be prepared for the potential downside.
Emergency Fund: Ensure you have a healthy emergency fund set aside before investing in startups.

The Startup Itself:

Funding Stage: Seed-stage startups typically require smaller investments compared to later-stage companies.
Valuation: The valuation of the startup will determine how much ownership you get for your investment.
Minimum Investment: Some startups may have a minimum investment amount required to participate in a funding round.

Here are some general guidelines to consider:

Accredited Investors vs. Non-Accredited Investors:
- Accredited Investors (as defined by the SEC in the US) can invest larger amounts. They generally have a higher income or net worth and are considered to be sophisticated investors.
- Non-Accredited Investors typically have stricter limitations on how much they can invest in startups, often based on a percentage of their income or net worth.
Percentage of Portfolio: Experts often recommend allocating a small percentage (around 1-5%) of your investment portfolio to high-risk investments like startups.
Start Small, Diversify: It's wise to start with smaller investments in several startups rather than putting all your eggs in one basket. This approach helps spread out the risk.

Remember, investing in startups is inherently risky. It's crucial to do your own research (DYOR) before investing any money. Here are some additional points to consider:

Don't invest what you can't afford to lose.
Invest in startups you understand and believe in.
Never invest based on hype or promises alone.

By carefully considering your financial situation, the startup's potential, and these general guidelines, you can make more informed decisions about how much to invest in a startup.