Discover how ET Capital’s new £2 million fund aims to level the playing field for Cambridge science and technology startups through accessible venture capital.
Introduction
Cambridge has long been a hub for innovation and technological advancement. However, accessing the right funding remains a significant challenge for many startups in the region. ET Capital is stepping in to address this issue with the launch of their new £2 million Cambridge Venture Index (CVI) SEIS/EIS Fund, aiming to democratize investment and support the flourishing Cambridge tech ecosystem through EIS startup funding.
The Vision of ET Capital
ET Capital, led by directors James Griffiths, David Gill, and Martin Rigby, brings over three decades of experience in early-stage investments and startup support. Their mission is to make venture capital accessible to a broader range of investors, particularly individuals who may have previously been excluded from high-potential investment opportunities within Cambridge’s vibrant startup scene.
The Cambridge Venture Index SEIS/EIS Fund
The Cambridge Venture Index (CVI) SEIS/EIS Fund employs an index-style diversified investment approach. Unlike traditional venture capital funds that might focus on a few select startups, the CVI Fund invests in a broad spectrum of early-stage businesses within the Cambridge cluster. This strategy aims to balance risk and return by spreading investments across multiple sectors and technologies, enhancing the overall stability and potential of the fund.
Key Features of the CVI Fund
- Diversification: Investing in 10-15 startups from April 2025 to March 2026 ensures a well-rounded portfolio.
- Tax Incentives: Leveraging SEIS and EIS tax relief schemes makes the fund attractive to individual investors by mitigating investment risks.
- Proven Performance: ET Capital has analyzed nearly 200 companies in Cambridge over the past 30 years, confirming that a diversified investment approach can outperform both the stock market and selective venture capital strategies.
Why SEIS/EIS Tax Incentives Matter
The Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) are crucial for encouraging investment in startups. These schemes offer significant tax reliefs to investors, making EIS startup funding a compelling option. For individual investors, the tax benefits reduce the financial risk associated with investing in early-stage companies, making it easier to support innovative ventures.
Democratizing Investment Access
Martin Rigby emphasized, “We want to offer participation in the Cambridge cluster to the widest possible range of people; to democratize investment.” By utilizing a diversified investment approach, ET Capital reduces the entry barriers traditionally associated with venture capital, allowing more individuals to invest in Cambridge’s future success. This inclusive strategy not only broadens the investor base but also fosters a more robust and dynamic startup ecosystem.
Supporting Cambridge’s Startup Ecosystem
Beyond providing capital, the CVI Fund collaborates with local incubators and commercialization offices to ensure that startups receive consistent and predictable seed funding. This partnership approach guarantees that the startups are aligned with the fund’s investment philosophy and receive the support needed to scale effectively.
Recent Successes
ET Capital’s track record includes notable achievements such as the flotation of ADC Therapeutics SA on the NYSE for $1.3 billion in 2020 and the acquisition of Carbon Engineering by Occidental Petroleum for $1.1 billion in 2023. These successes underscore the potential of the Cambridge cluster and reinforce ET Capital’s confidence in their investment strategy.
Future Plans and Expansion
ET Capital plans to launch a series of funds following the CVI SEIS/EIS Fund, catering to different investor needs, including institutional investors and family offices. This phased approach will ensure sustained support for the Cambridge tech ecosystem while expanding investment opportunities for a diverse range of stakeholders.
Conclusion
ET Capital’s £2 million Cambridge Venture Index SEIS/EIS Fund represents a significant step toward making venture capital more accessible and inclusive. By leveraging EIS startup funding and offering diversified, tax-efficient investment opportunities, ET Capital is poised to empower both investors and startups, driving innovation and economic growth within Cambridge’s thriving tech landscape.
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