Approach.

How involved to you get with the businesses you invest in?

We won’t tell you how to run your business, but we like to help as much as we can. We are active, engaged investors and we share our network, experience and knowledge with the entrepreneurs we partner with. We normally take a seat on the board and increase your business visibility and profile. And if we personally can’t help, we usually know someone who’s been in a similar situation who can.

Which market sectors do you invest in?

We do not focus on specific market sectors. We focus on markets which are ripe for disruption. More specifically, we look for the newest entrants to the largest emerging markets, and those on the brink of explosive growth. Naturally this tends towards the highest-growth segments of the technology market, such as consumer internet, e-commerce and software. However we’ve also seen great successes within communications and security, semiconductors, consumer services, plus media and financial services. These are areas where our partners have had direct experience, built extensive networks and grown companies. We do not focus on Life Sciences or Cleantech.

How long does it take to get funding?

It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, although typically it takes 6 – 10 weeks.

How do I submit my business plan?

Please read our guidelines before you submit your plan, using our online form.

How much do you invest?

We believe in investing the right amount of capital, not the maximum amount of capital i.e. the money you need not the maximum amount you can raise. Our investments can range anywhere from US $100,000 to in excess of US $20m, however we typically we invest £15m over the lifecycle of a company.

What is your preferred stage of investment?

We aim to be the first institutional money in. We typically invest in the early stages of our companies, and continue to support them throughout the various stages of their existence. We always invest with an eye on the longer term and we seek entrepreneurs with a similar perspective. However, many of the companies we speak to are at later stages of financing and we sometimes invest in later rounds if we believe we can help the business scale.

Do you invest in start ups outside the UK?

Yes. Historically most of our investments have been in European companies, but we also invest in companies based in US and Asia; and because many of our European investments have moved their headquarters to the US, nearly half our portfolio now has a US base.

Why haven’t I heard back?

Every year we receive thousands of applications, and whilst we try to get back to everyone within 2 weeks, we’re a small team and do occasionally build up a backlog. So if you don’t hear from us, it doesn’t mean we’re not interested – just that haven’t read your application yet. We take the time to consider every business plan thoroughly, and whilst we respond to all applications, we regret that when we decide not to take things further, we usually can’t give detailed feedback – sorry.

What is the best way to get in touch?

Whilst we will always review plans that are submitted our website, the best way to get our attention is through our existing network. If you have a contact within our existing portfolio companies, ask them to make a personal recommendation to the Partners.

Why don’t you sign NDAs?

Due to the volume of business plans we receive on a daily basis it is sadly not possible for us to sign NDAs, as is common with all leading Venture Capital firms. However, we will absolutely respect the confidentiality of all information you send us – rest assured that our reputation and integrity as a top tier Venture Capital firm absolutely depend on this.