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How to Find SEIS and EIS Angel Investors for Your UK Startup in 2026

Why SEIS and EIS Matter in 2026

If you’re on the hunt to find SEIS investors, you already know that early-stage cash is hard to come by. The UK government’s Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) exist to change that. They reward investors with tax reliefs—up to 50% on SEIS and 30% on EIS contributions. Imagine telling an investor: “You can halve your risk and still own a slice of tomorrow’s unicorn.” That’s compelling.

In 2026, the UK startup scene has never been more vibrant. Tech hubs are popping up in Manchester, Cardiff and Edinburgh. Angel investors are keen. But they need clear signals that your startup ticks SEIS/EIS boxes. That’s where strategy meets execution.

Understanding the SEIS and EIS Programmes

Before you set out to find SEIS investors, get your basics right.

  • SEIS Eligibility
  • Companies under two years old
  • Fewer than 25 employees

  • Gross assets below £350,000

  • EIS Eligibility

  • Fewer than 250 employees
  • Gross assets below £15 million
  • Must be trading (not just R&D)

These schemes offer multiple perks:

  • Income tax relief
  • Capital gains reinvestment relief
  • Loss relief
  • Tax-free gains on exit

Armed with that knowledge, you can craft a story that resonates.

Proven Ways to Find SEIS Investors

So how do you actually find SEIS investors? Here’s a mix of time-tested and new-school tactics.

1. Join Angel Networks

Angel networks are the classic route. Think Angel Investment Network, Tech Coast Angels or Gust. They gather investors under one roof—physical or virtual. You pitch, they ask questions, you refine, rinse and repeat. But watch out for commission fees and opaque vetting processes.

2. Leverage Social Media

Social platforms aren’t just for memes. LinkedIn and Twitter are goldmines for angel contacts. Try these moves:

  • Build in public. Share wins, losses and lessons.
  • Use hashtags. #SEIS, #EIS, #angelinvestor.
  • Engage. Comment on posts, DM with a one-liner pitch.

It’s a slow burn. But authentic stories stand out.

3. Attend Events and Conferences

Physical meet-ups still pack a punch. In 2026, look out for:

  • London Tech Week
  • Startup Grind Global
  • Regional pitch days

Prepare a micro-pitch. Keep it under 60 seconds. Hand out your one-pager. Follow up within 24 hours.

4. Compete in Pitch Competitions

Whether it’s a uni hackathon or a regional demo day, competitions put you centre stage. Even if you don’t win, you hone your pitch and meet investors who might fund the runner-up.

5. Tap Incubators and Accelerators

Programmes like Entrepreneur First or Seedcamp offer more than a desk and a mentor. Demo days connect you directly with angels looking to find SEIS investors. Accept the support. Do the home-work. Show traction.

6. Network with Fellow Founders

Your peers have been there. Ask for warm introductions. Join Slack, Discord or WhatsApp founder groups. A single DM from a trusted founder can make all the difference.

7. Use a Curated Marketplace: Oriel IPO

Most platforms charge a commission on funds raised. Oriel IPO does not. Its commission-free, subscription-based model means more cash lands in your bank account. Here’s what makes it different:

  • Curated SEIS/EIS opportunities
  • Clear tax-incentive info
  • Educational webinars and guides
  • A vetted investor pool

Want to explore our features and see deals that match your startup? Explore our features

Step-by-Step: Preparing to Meet SEIS Investors

Once you know where to look, you need to impress. Here’s your checklist.

  1. Document your finances. CAC, LTV, burn rate and runway.
  2. Craft a slick pitch deck. No more than 15 slides: problem, solution, market, team, traction, financials.
  3. Be jargon-free. Explain terms like “valuation cap” or “pro-rata rights” in simple language.
  4. Show traction. Even a prototype or pilot can move the needle.
  5. Prepare for due diligence. Legal documents, IP details and customer references ready to share.
  6. Know your ask. State clearly how much you need and why.

Boost Investor Interest with SEO Content

A less obvious hack? Show you know marketing. Use a service like Maggie’s AutoBlog to generate blog posts that improve your online footprint. Investors often Google your name and business before meetings. A polished blog signals professionalism.

  • Fresh content on SEIS/EIS updates
  • GEO-targeted posts that appeal to UK investors
  • SEO-optimised articles to rank for “find SEIS investors”

You’ll not only attract angels—you’ll show you can market like a pro.

How Oriel IPO Solves Common Pain Points

You might compare Oriel IPO to generic platforms like Seedrs or Crowdcube. They have their strengths: large user bases, brand recognition. But they can be commission-heavy and less focused on SEIS/EIS specifics.

Oriel IPO’s USP:

  • No commission on capital raised
  • Exclusive focus on SEIS and EIS deals
  • Educational toolkit: guides, webinars, checklists
  • Subscription fees that scale with your use

In short, you keep more of the cash and get the know-how you need.

Tips to Stand Out and Secure Funding

  • Be authentic. Investors back founders as much as ideas.
  • Show progress. Even minor milestones—user sign-ups, partnerships—matter.
  • Ask smart questions. Learn each investor’s strengths and network.
  • Follow up. A quick thank-you email with next steps keeps momentum.

Conclusion

Finding the right SEIS and EIS angel investors is about strategy and preparation. Mix traditional networking with modern tools. Use platforms that value your equity and time. And lean on resources that sharpen your edge—like Oriel IPO’s commission-free, curated marketplace.

Ready to supercharge your fundraising? Get a personalized demo

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