Introduction
Securing angel funding UK startups dream about? It can feel like climbing Everest in flip-flops. Between tangled tax rules and crowded pitch events, it’s easy to get lost. That’s where SEIS and EIS come in. And where Oriel IPO steps up.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What SEIS and EIS actually mean
- How to prepare your documents
- Step-by-step pitching on a commission-free investment marketplace
- Pitfalls to dodge
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to attract angel funding UK startups deserve—without the jargon overload.
Understanding SEIS and EIS
What is SEIS?
The Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) is a UK government programme designed to boost early-stage investment. In plain terms:
- You raise up to £150,000 per startup.
- Investors get 50% tax relief on their investment.
- It’s perfect for proving your idea and getting that first cash injection.
What is EIS?
The Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) is the next level up:
- Raise up to £5 million per year.
- Investors enjoy 30% tax relief.
- Loss relief and capital gains deferral can sweeten the deal further.
Together, SEIS and EIS create a powerful one-two punch for angel funding UK startups. The schemes reduce risk for investors and make your venture far more attractive.
Why tax relief matters
Imagine you’re an investor. Would you back a risky project with no perks? Probably not. SEIS/EIS is that perk. It’s a government-backed safety net. And you want every advantage when you’re hunting angel funding for your UK startup.
Why Choose Oriel IPO for Angel Funding UK Startups
Oriel IPO is more than a listing site. It’s a commission-free, tax-focused investment marketplace. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Commission-free model: You keep more of the funds you raise.
- Curated opportunities: No more endless scrolling. Only vetted, SEIS/EIS-eligible startups.
- Educational resources: Guides, webinars and insights to demystify the process.
- Subscription-based fees: Predictable. Transparent. No surprises.
- Maggie’s AutoBlog: Want an SEO-optimised blog or investor update? Our AI tool generates content in seconds.
Traditional platforms like Seedrs or Crowdcube charge hefty fees. They take 5% or more of your raise. Oriel IPO doesn’t. That matters when every pound counts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Angel Funding UK Startups Love
Let’s break it down. You’ll see just how simple angel funding UK startups can be with the right roadmap.
1. Check SEIS/EIS eligibility
Before you dream big, check you’re eligible:
- Incorporated no more than 2 years ago.
- Gross assets under £200,000 for SEIS.
- Fewer than 250 employees.
- Clear business plan and commercial viability.
Head to the UK Government SEIS/EIS Overview for the full checklist. No guesswork.
2. Prepare your documentation
Angel investors expect clarity. Get ready:
- Company incorporation documents.
- Three-year financial forecasts.
- Details on how you’ll use funds.
- HMRC compliance records.
Tip: Be concise. A few well-structured spreadsheets beat a 50-page tome. And remember, investors review dozens of proposals. You want yours to stand out.
3. Register and list on Oriel IPO
Head over to Oriel IPO’s marketplace:
- Sign up and choose your subscription.
- Fill in your pitch details.
- Upload documents.
- Tag your listing as SEIS/EIS.
In minutes, your startup appears alongside other high-quality, tax-screened opportunities. No platform fees. No hidden extras.
4. Craft a standout pitch
A killer pitch has three parts:
- Story: Why you? Why now? Think of it as a 60-second movie trailer.
- Numbers: Show realistic projections, cost breakdowns and exit strategy.
- Ask: State the amount and the share you’re offering.
Use bullet points. Use visuals. And rehearse. Remember: angel investors back founders, not just ideas.
5. Engage with investors
Oriel IPO lets you message interested angels directly:
- Respond promptly.
- Offer one-page updates.
- Schedule video calls.
Be honest about risks. Ask for feedback. Even rejection can lead to warm intros. Every conversation expands your network.
6. Secure commitments and close
Once you have verbal yeses:
- Issue term sheets.
- Get legal review.
- Complete HMRC compliance forms.
- Accept funds via escrow.
Job done. You’ve secured angel funding UK startups can scale on.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
No guide is complete without a heads-up on traps. Here are the usual suspects:
- Over-valuing early on. Aim for realism. Investors value credibility.
- Ignoring tax deadlines. SEIS/EIS relief can evaporate if forms are late.
- Poor communication. Ghosting is a surefire way to stall your raise.
- Relying on “friends and family” only. Broaden your investor pool early.
Stay organised. Use project management tools. And lean on Oriel IPO’s educational webinars whenever you need a refresher.
Comparing Oriel IPO with Competitors
Platforms like Seedrs, Crowdcube and Angel Investment Network have solid reputations. They offer scale and regulatory backing. But they also:
- Charge 5–7% fees on funds raised.
- Require a longer due-diligence process.
- Offer less control over investor relationships.
Oriel IPO counters by:
- Zero commission: You keep more of every pound.
- Flexible subscription: Pay for what you need.
- Direct investor access: No middle-man delays.
- AI tools: Like Maggie’s AutoBlog to craft marketing collateral.
In short, when you want to streamline angel funding UK startups processes and retain more capital, Oriel IPO is the smarter choice.
Tips for Long-Term Investor Relationships
Securing funds is only half the battle. Nurture investor ties:
- Send quarterly updates.
- Invite them to demo days.
- Be transparent about setbacks.
- Ask for intros in their network.
Treat investors as partners. They’re not just a cheque; they’re mentors, connectors and cheerleaders.
Wrapping Up
Securing angel funding UK startups truly is within reach. With SEIS/EIS incentives and the right marketplace, you cut through red tape and fees. Oriel IPO’s commission-free model and curated approach make it the go-to choice for savvy founders.
Now it’s your turn:
- Check SEIS/EIS eligibility.
- Prepare killer docs.
- List on Oriel IPO.
- Pitch with confidence.
- Close your round.
And if you need help with content—like blog updates or press releases—try Maggie’s AutoBlog to save hours and keep your messaging sharp.
Ready to transform your fundraising journey?
