Why SEIS/EIS Matters for Online Marketplace Funding
When you’re building an online marketplace, getting the right backing early on can make or break you. The UK’s Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) offer juicy tax incentives:
- Up to 50% income tax relief on SEIS investments.
- Up to 30% income tax relief on EIS investments.
- Capital gains tax exemption if you hold shares for three years.
- Loss relief if things don’t go to plan.
These perks turn the tricky world of online marketplace funding from a minefield into a more welcoming path. But where do you actually find investors who care about SEIS/EIS? Let’s compare two approaches: the typical deep-dive guides (like Codica’s) versus a specialised platform built for this, Oriel IPO.
Codica’s Guide vs Oriel IPO: A Quick Comparison
Codica’s article on “How to Find Investments for Online Marketplace Startups” is thorough. It covers:
- Bootstrapping, crowdfunding, VC rounds, angels.
- Detailed stage breakdown from pre-seed to Series D.
- Examples and sector trends.
Solid stuff. But it’s general. It doesn’t zero-in on SEIS/EIS opportunities or commission-free, curated deals. You still end up hopping between multiple sites, filling in forms, hoping someone cares about tax relief.
Enter Oriel IPO. We built a commission-free, curated SEIS/EIS investment marketplace. Here’s how it addresses gaps:
- Single hub for vetted SEIS/EIS-eligible startups.
- Transparent subscription fees instead of buried commissions.
- Educational resources, from webinars to our AI-powered Maggie’s AutoBlog, so you nail your investor pitch every time.
- UK-focused network of angels, advisers and tax specialists.
Now let’s dive into the top five ways you can snag SEIS/EIS investment for your online marketplace.
1. Leverage a Commission-Free Curated Platform
Why juggle multiple debt-funding sites when you can browse SEIS/EIS deals on one commission-free marketplace?
- Curated selection: Every startup is pre-vetted for SEIS or EIS eligibility.
- No surprises: Subscription fees are transparent. You know exactly what you pay.
- Educational toolkit: Use Maggie’s AutoBlog to generate SEO-rich content for your pitch deck and investor updates.
- Focus on fit: Filter by sector, deal size and timeline, not hidden fees.
With Oriel IPO, you’re not hunting for pages of unverified opportunities. You get a tailored feed of quality deals, ready for direct contact.
2. Tap into Angel Networks and Syndicates
Angel investors often love marketplaces because of network effects and scalability. To reach the right people:
- Join SEIS/EIS-friendly angel networks like Angels Den or the UK Angel Investment Network.
- Look for syndicates that specifically flag SEIS/EIS relief.
- Attend meetups and pitch events—give a 2-minute pitch highlighting your traction and tax benefits.
- Follow up with detailed materials crafted via Maggie’s AutoBlog so you’re consistent, clear and SEO-optimised.
Angels bring more than cash. Expect mentorship, introductions and market insights. But keep your ask concise: they see plenty of deals.
3. Run a Specialist Crowdfunding Campaign
Not all crowdfunding is equal when it comes to SEIS/EIS. Focus on platforms that:
- Offer SEIS/EIS-compliant equity rounds.
- Have a track record of registry and compliance checks.
- Provide investor dashboards to manage relief claims.
Platform names to consider:
- Crowdcube (with SEIS/EIS tax relief).
- Seedrs (detailed investor packs).
- UK-based niche platforms focusing solely on tax-efficient equity.
Before you launch:
- Prepare your story: lean on your MVP traction.
- Build buzz on social media.
- Offer early-bird incentives (bonus shares, founder calls).
Halfway through your funding journey?
Oriel IPO integrates with all major crowdfunding portals but also lists exclusive direct-invest opportunities you won’t find elsewhere.
4. Join Incubator and Accelerator Programmes
Accelerators and incubators can be direct channels to SEIS/EIS investors:
- Y Combinator, Techstars and 500 Startups often have alumni funds that invest under EIS.
- UK regional incubators frequently partner with local enterprise bodies offering grant plus EIS-friendly angels.
- Pitch days let you practise the ask, get feedback and secure warm leads.
Pros:
- Mentorship, networking and infrastructure.
- Demo days with active investors.
Cons:
- Competition is fierce.
- You typically give up 5-10% equity.
Use resources like Oriel IPO’s webinar series to refine your pitch before you apply.
5. Approach Venture and Growth Funds with EIS Vehicles
Once you’re past seed and showing solid growth:
- Target VC firms that operate an EIS fund or co-invest in EIS deals—look for Access EIS like SyndicateRoom.
- Some private equity firms have carve-outs for high-growth startups under EIS relief.
- Don’t forget family offices; many use EIS to manage tax on larger checks.
Key tip: prepare a crisp financial model and clear use-of-funds. Our Maggie’s AutoBlog tool helps generate polished summaries and FAQs, so you look professional and prepared.
Final Thoughts
Finding SEIS/EIS investors for your online marketplace doesn’t have to feel like a treasure hunt. Yes, guides like Codica’s offer a thorough overview. But you need a focused, commission-free home for deals, plus tools and education that make your pitch shine.
Oriel IPO bundles:
- Curated SEIS/EIS-eligible startups.
- Transparent subscriptions.
- Educational support—including Maggie’s AutoBlog.
- Direct connections to angels, VCs and funds.
Ready to streamline your online marketplace funding journey?
