Startup Funding UK 2024-25 (Free List)
Gateway to the UK startup funding eco-system.
| Angel Investors |
|---|
| An angel investor is an individual who provides capital to early-stage startups, typically in exchange for equity or convertible debt. |
 Mark Ransford |
 Chris Adelsbach |
 Dinika Mahtani |
 Zeynep Yavuz |
 Guy Podjarny |
 Michelle You |
 Tim Sadler |
| List of angel investors |
| Startup Accelerators |
|---|
 Mark Ransford |
| Chris Adelsbach |
| Dinika Mahtani |
| Zeynep Yavuz |
| Guy Podjarny |
| Michelle You |
| Tim Sadler |
| List of startup accelerators |
| Venture Capital Partners |
|---|
 Mike Chalfen |
 William Goodwin |
 Laurel Bowden |
 Markus Lang |
 Reshma Sohoni |
 Spencer Lake |
 Will Prendergast |
| List of VC Partners |
| Startup Funding Events |
|---|
 Proptech Connect Europe |
 Digital Marketing World Forum |
 Move |
 London Biotechnology Show |
 GCV Symposium |
 London VC Summit |
 London Tech Week |
 Info Security Europe |
 BWT UK |
 Chem UK |
| All startup funding events |
| Angel Networks |
|---|
| Angels Invest Wales |
| Archangels |
| Bristol Private Equity Club |
| Cambridge Angels |
| Dorset Business ANgels |
| GC Angels |
| Galvanise Capital |
| List of angel networks |
Navigating the UK startup funding landscape can be complex and daunting—there’s so much information out there, and it’s hard to know where to begin. Who should you contact first? Which investors align best with your vision? And what resources are available to help you reach your funding goals? I’ve designed this page to serve as your comprehensive roadmap through the UK’s startup funding ecosystem.
On this page, you’ll find a curated collection of resources tailored to help UK founders at every stage:
- Angel Investors: Explore a handpicked selection of angel investors who bring not only funding but valuable mentorship to early-stage startups.
- Venture Capital Firms and Partners: Discover the venture capitalists actively investing in UK innovation, categorised to help you find the perfect match for your industry and growth stage (pre-seed to IPO).
- Startup Accelerators: Accelerators offer more than capital—they provide mentorship, strategic guidance, and a network that can fast-track your startup's success.
- Angel Networks: Access networks that connect startups with groups of angel investors who pool their resources to amplify their impact and increase funding potential.
- UK Startup Events: Stay informed about the latest networking events, pitch days, and conferences where you can connect directly with investors, advisors, and fellow entrepreneurs.
- Latest Funded Startups: Get inspired by recent success stories from startups that have secured funding, with insights into their journeys and the types of investors who backed them.
Whether you’re just beginning your fundraising journey or are ready to scale, this page is here to guide you through each step. Use it to clarify your strategy, identify the right partners, and connect with the people and events that can propel your vision forward.
This is your entry point to startup funding. And if you want to go a lot faster, I've also built the full UK investor database here.
Frequently asked questions about startup funding
What is startup funding?
Startup funding is the money entrepreneurs raise to launch or grow their businesses. It typically comes from sources like personal savings, venture capital, angel investors, crowdfunding, or loans, helping cover initial costs, product development, and expansion until the business generates its own revenue.
How startup funding works?
Startup funding works by securing capital from investors or lenders who believe in the business’s potential. In exchange, investors often receive equity (ownership) or expect future repayment with interest.
What are the funding stages of a startup?
The main funding stages of a startup are:
- Pre-seed: Early personal or small investments to develop the idea.
- Seed: Initial funding from angel investors or early-stage VCs to build a prototype or launch.
- Series A: Funding to scale the product and grow the user base.
- Series B: Capital to expand market reach and improve the business model.
- Series C and beyond: Funds for major expansion, often leading up to an IPO or acquisition.
How to get funding for startup?
To get funding for a startup, founders can:
- Self-fund (bootstrap) or seek support from family and friends.
- Pitch to angel investors for early support.
- Apply to startup incubators or accelerators for mentorship and capital.
- Seek venture capital for larger investments as the business grows.
- Crowdfund through platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo.
- Consider loans or grants for specific business needs.
How to value a startup for seed funding?
Suppose a UK-based tech startup has a strong team, early product, and some market traction. Using a common valuation method, the startup could be valued at £1 million for seed funding. If an investor offers £250,000 for 20% equity, this would imply a £1.25 million post-money valuation (meaning £1 million pre-money, plus the new £250,000 investment).
How to get funding for startup from government?
To get government funding for a startup in the UK, founders can:
- Apply for grants from schemes like Innovate UK or Smart Grants, which support innovation and tech.
- Seek loans such as the Start Up Loans scheme, offering low-interest funding.
- Look for R&D tax credits to reclaim costs on research and development.
- Explore regional growth funds aimed at boosting local businesses and job creation.
- Check for sector-specific support for areas like green tech, health, or manufacturing.
