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Meta Description: Learn how Obu, a female-founded SEIS investment platform, is connecting women-led businesses with investors to close the gender pay gap.
Introduction
In the evolving landscape of UK entrepreneurship, SEIS investment platforms play a pivotal role in bridging the funding gap for startups. Among these, Obu stands out as a beacon for female entrepreneurs, leveraging the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) to connect women-led businesses with eager investors. This initiative not only facilitates access to essential capital but also champions the cause of gender equality in the investment ecosystem.
The Gender Investment Gap
Despite a surge in female entrepreneurship, the gender investment gap remains a pressing issue. In 2022 alone, over 150,000 new companies were established by women in the UK, accounting for more than 20% of all businesses. However, a staggering less than 2% of investment capital flows into these ventures. This disparity is further exacerbated by the fact that only 14% of angel investors in the UK are women, creating a systemic barrier that hinders the growth of female-led startups.
How Obu Bridges the Gap
Obu was born out of a clear recognition of these inequalities. Founded by Sarah King and Claire Dunn, both seasoned professionals in corporate financial services, Obu was established with a mission to close the gender pay gap by creating a more inclusive investment environment. By focusing on early-stage investments, Obu targets the critical funding phases where female entrepreneurs often face the most significant challenges.
Key Features of Obu’s SEIS Investment Platform
- Commission-Free Funding: Unlike many traditional platforms, Obu eliminates commission fees, ensuring that more capital reaches the entrepreneurs.
- Curated Investment Opportunities: Obu offers a handpicked selection of tax-efficient SEIS/EIS investment options, tailored to both novice and experienced investors.
- Educational Resources: The platform provides comprehensive tools, including guides and calculators, to help users navigate the complexities of SEIS/EIS, empowering them to make informed investment decisions.
- Community Support: By fostering a supportive network, Obu encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among entrepreneurs and investors alike.
Success Stories
Obu’s impact is evident in the success stories of the businesses it supports. Notably, Moody Month, a femtech women’s wellbeing app, and ProperPlan, an AI-powered project planning tool, each secured nearly £300,000 through Obu’s fundraising rounds. These achievements underscore Obu’s commitment to nurturing high-potential female-led startups, providing them with the necessary resources to thrive.
The Impact of SEIS Investment Platforms
The Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) offers significant tax incentives to investors, making it an attractive avenue for funding startups. By simplifying the investment process and providing access to valuable educational tools, Obu ensures that both startups and investors can leverage SEIS benefits effectively. This not only democratizes access to funding but also fosters a more diverse and resilient investment culture within the UK.
Government Advocacy
Obu has been instrumental in advocating for policy changes to enhance the SEIS framework. Last year, the platform successfully lobbied government officials to extend the age limit for businesses applying for SEIS, making it more accessible to a broader range of women founders and investors. This proactive approach has been pivotal in removing invisible barriers that previously limited female entrepreneurs’ access to investment.
Future of Obu
Looking ahead, Obu aims to scale its platform internationally, recognizing that the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs in the UK are mirrored worldwide. With estimates predicting an additional $30 trillion in investable financial assets held by women in the US by 2030, Obu is poised to play a crucial role in tapping into this overlooked audience. Strategic initiatives, including partnerships with industry leaders and enhanced marketing campaigns, will be essential in driving this global expansion.
Strategic Growth Areas
- FCA Regulation Pursuit: Achieving Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulation status will bolster Obu’s credibility and trustworthiness in the financial sector.
- User Conversion Optimization: Transitioning trial users to paying subscribers through targeted strategies will ensure long-term sustainability.
- Service Expansion: Introducing complementary services such as compliance tools and analytics will enhance user experience and strengthen the platform’s value proposition.
Conclusion
Obu exemplifies how a dedicated SEIS investment platform can drive meaningful change in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. By addressing the gender investment gap, providing robust educational resources, and fostering a supportive community, Obu empowers female entrepreneurs to realize their visions and contribute significantly to the UK’s innovation and economic growth. As the platform continues to evolve and expand, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of inclusive investment practices.
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