Discover the top 20 angel investor networks in the UK that can provide the seed funding your startup needs to grow.
Introduction to Angel Investing in the UK
Angel investing plays a crucial role in the UK startup ecosystem, providing essential seed funding to early-stage businesses. With over 15,000 angel investors across the country and a record £2.3 billion invested via the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) in the year ending April 2022, angel investor networks are instrumental in helping startups scale and succeed. These networks connect innovative entrepreneurs with experienced investors, fostering growth and innovation across various sectors.
Why Angel Investor Networks Matter
Angel investor networks offer more than just funding. They provide valuable mentorship, industry connections, and strategic advice that can accelerate a startup’s growth trajectory. By pooling resources and expertise, these networks create a supportive environment where startups can thrive, navigate challenges, and achieve sustainable success.
Top 20 UK Angel Investor Networks
Below is a curated list of the top 20 UK angel investor networks that are pivotal in boosting startup funding. Each network offers unique opportunities tailored to different regions, investment sizes, and sectors.
1. Advantage Business Angels
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £25,000 – £300,000
- Sectors: SaaS, Fintech, EdTech, MedTech
- Annual Investments: 10
- Successful Exits: 1
- Website: advantagebusinessangels.co.uk
- Contact: john@advantagebusinessangels.co.uk
2. Angel Investment Network
- Regions Covered: Worldwide
- Investment Size: Up to £5m
- Sectors: Any
- Website: angelinvestmentnetwork.co.uk
- Contact: N/A
3. AngelClubRCA
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £100,000 – £500,000
- Sectors: Any
- Annual Investments: 5-15
- Website: rca.ac.uk
- Contact: angelclub@rca.ac.uk
4. Angels Den
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £100,000 – £1m
- Sectors: Any
- Annual Investments: 40
- Successful Exits: 7
- Website: angelsden.com
- Contact: info@angelsden.com
5. Angels Invest Wales
- Regions Covered: Wales
- Investment Size: Any
- Sectors: Any
- Annual Investments: 30
- Website: developmentbank.wales
- Contact: info@developmentbank.wales
6. Dorset Business Angels
- Regions Covered: All UK, focus on South
- Investment Size: £50,000 – £1m
- Sectors: Any
- Annual Investments: ~5
- Successful Exits: 5
- Website: dorsetbusinessangels.co.uk
- Contact: contact@dorsetbusinessangels.co.uk
7. DSW Angels
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £300,000 – £1m
- Sectors: Software, Digital, Tech
- Annual Investments: 4-5
- Website: dsw-angels.com
- Contact: info@dsw-angels.com
8. Envestor
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £250,000 – £5m
- Sectors: Tech, CleanTech, FinTech, MedTech, EdTech
- Annual Investments: 15
- Successful Exits: 21
- Website: envestors.co.uk
- Contact: +44 (0)20 7240 0202
9. Equity Gap
- Regions Covered: Scotland and relocations to Scotland
- Investment Size: Up to £500,000
- Sectors: Any excluding retail/property
- Annual Investments: 5
- Website: equitygap.co.uk
- Contact: enquiries@equitygap.co.uk
10. Finstock Capital
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £100,000 – £2m
- Sectors: Any
- Annual Investments: 30
- Website: finstockcapital.com
- Contact: info@finstockcapital.com
11. FSE Group
- Regions Covered: Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, Cornwall
- Investment Size: £50,000 – £2m
- Sectors: Any
- Annual Investments: 12-14
- Successful Exits: 7
- Website: thefsegroup.com
- Contact: fundingenquiries@thefsegroup.com
12. Gabriel Investment Syndicate
- Regions Covered: Scotland
- Investment Size: £50,000 – £150,000
- Sectors: Technology
- Annual Investments: 4-6
- Website: equitygap.co.uk (Refer to Equity Gap for contact)
13. Green Angel Syndicate
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £150,000 – £1m
- Sectors: CleanTech
- Annual Investments: 10
- Successful Exits: 2
- Website: greenangelsyndicate.com
- Contact: nick@greenangelsyndicate.com
14. HBAN (Halo Business Angel Network)
- Regions Covered: Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland
- Investment Size: €10,000 – €150,000; syndicated: €100,000 -€500,000
- Sectors: MedTech, Software, Agri, CleanTech, Manufacturing, Engineering
- Annual Investments: 60+
- Website: hban.org
- Contact: info@hban.org
15. Kelvin Capital
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £500,000 – £2m
- Sectors: Any
- Annual Investments: 10-12
- Website: kelvincapital.com
- Contact: theteam@kelvincapital.com
16. Low Carbon Innovation Fund
- Regions Covered: Norfolk, Suffolk, Greater Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Hertfordshire
- Investment Size: £25,000 to £500,000
- Sectors: Climate Tech
- Annual Investments: ~40
- Successful Exits: 6
- Website: lowcarbonfund.co.uk
- Contact: lcif@uea.ac.uk
17. Minerva
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £150,000 – £2m
- Sectors: Tech Agnostic
- Annual Investments: ~16
- Successful Exits: 4
- Website: minerva.uk.net
- Contact: enquiries@minerva.uk.net
18. NorthInvest
- Regions Covered: Northern England
- Investment Size: £25,000 – £1m
- Sectors: Technology, Digital Media, FinTech, AI, MedTech, Cyber Security, EdTech, Tech For Good
- Annual Investments: 10
- Website: northinvest.co.uk
- Contact: info@northinvest.co.uk
19. Seedrs
- Regions Covered: Europe
- Investment Size: Avg. £85,000
- Sectors: FinTech, Food & Beverage, Travel, Leisure, Insurtech, Welltech, Sustainability
- Annual Investments: 250
- Successful Exits: 14
- Website: seedrs.com
- Contact: support@seedrs.com
20. SFC Capital
- Regions Covered: UK
- Investment Size: £100,000 -£500,000
- Sectors: Diverse, including FinTech, MedTech, CleanTech, E-commerce, and more
- Annual Investments: 50
- Successful Exits: 4
- Website: sfccapital.com
- Contact: SFC Contact Page
Leveraging Angel Investor Networks for Success
Engaging with the right angel investor network can significantly enhance your startup’s chances of securing funding. Here are some tips to make the most of these networks:
- Prepare a Solid Pitch: Clearly articulate your business idea, market potential, and financial projections.
- Know Your Audience: Research the network’s investment criteria and tailor your pitch accordingly.
- Build Relationships: Networking is key. Engage with investors beyond just seeking funds.
- Leverage Educational Resources: Utilize the educational tools and resources provided by networks to refine your business strategy.
Introducing Oriel IPO: Revolutionizing Investment Opportunities in the UK
In the dynamic landscape of UK investment marketplaces, Oriel IPO stands out as an innovative platform dedicated to connecting startups with angel investors through SEIS/EIS tax incentives. Launched in early 2024, Oriel IPO offers a commission-free environment, comprehensive educational resources, and a supportive community for both novice and experienced investors. By providing subscription-based access tiers, Oriel IPO democratizes investment opportunities, fostering essential relationships that drive startup growth and innovation.
Conclusion
Navigating the UK’s vibrant landscape of angel investor networks can open doors to significant funding and invaluable mentorship. Whether you’re a startup seeking seed capital or an investor looking for high-potential opportunities, these top 20 angel investor networks offer a pathway to success.
Empower your startup journey today by connecting with the right angel investor network and unlock the full potential of your business.
