Scottish Enterprise is Scotland's primary economic development agency, operating as a non-departmental public body under the Scottish Government. Established in 1991 and based in Glasgow, it aims to foster an innovative and productive economy by partnering with both public and private sectors to identify and capitalize on high-value opportunities. The organization supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by helping them secure necessary financing, enhancing management capabilities, and facilitating growth. Through its arm, the Scottish Investment Bank, it engages in direct and fund of fund investments, focusing on sectors such as renewable energy, healthcare, technology, and creative industries. It typically invests between £0.01 million and £10 million, utilizing various financial instruments including loans, equity, and mezzanine financing. Scottish Enterprise also collaborates with UK and international investors, including business angels and venture capital groups, to stimulate the funding market in Scotland and enhance the growth potential of Scottish businesses.

Foresight Group is an independent alternative asset manager based in London, United Kingdom, with over 30 years of experience in infrastructure and private equity investment. The firm specializes in environmental and solar infrastructure, managing more than £2.2 billion in assets on behalf of a diverse range of clients, including private individuals, family offices, pension funds, and institutional investors. Foresight offers various investment products, such as Listed Vehicles, Limited Partnerships, Venture Capital Trusts, and Enterprise Investment Schemes. Its investment strategy focuses on growth-stage companies across multiple sectors, including renewable energy, technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, with a commitment to sustainable economic and social development. Foresight operates internationally, with offices located in the UK, USA, Italy, and Australia, and aims to generate long-term capital appreciation and increasing dividends for its investors.

IP Group, founded in 2001 and based in London, specializes in the commercialization of intellectual property derived from research-intensive institutions. The company focuses on identifying and developing valuable intellectual property and forming strategic commercial partnerships to maximize its potential. With a strong background in industry and finance, IP Group offers financial, strategic, and commercial expertise to its clients on an international scale. The firm has established a solid track record of delivering significant results for its portfolio companies, partners, and shareholders, particularly in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Through its comprehensive approach, IP Group aims to create long-term value while fostering innovation in the marketplace.

Techstars Central LLC, founded in 2006 and based in Boulder, Colorado, operates as a startup accelerator and venture capital firm focused on supporting early-stage technology-oriented companies. It specializes in a mentorship-driven accelerator program, selecting ten startups each summer to participate in a three-month incubation period, offering funding of $120,000 in exchange for equity. Techstars invests primarily in sectors such as fintech, artificial intelligence, blockchain, augmented reality, and IoT, while avoiding investments in medical devices, healthcare technology, and local service-oriented businesses. In addition to its primary accelerator, Techstars has various specialized programs, including those focused on music, retail, mobility, and social impact, with global reach extending to regions such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The firm prefers taking minority stakes, typically between six and ten percent, without seeking board representation or investor rights. Techstars has built a robust network of entrepreneurs, mentors, and corporate partners to foster innovation and growth within its portfolio, which includes over 1,000 companies with a significant collective market capitalization.

Business Growth Fund is an influential investor in small and mid-sized businesses. It was set up in 2011 to offer growing companies and ambitious entrepreneurs patient capital and strategic support. With 14 offices, they are close and relevant to the businesses they invest in. They have grown to a team of 150+ and a network that’s made up of one of the largest pools of board-level executives. Collectively, the companies in their portfolio employ close to 50,000 people. They want to see more entrepreneurs using their capital not only to scale-up their own business but also, collectively, to drive economic activity and with it increase employment, exports, and growth.

Octopus Ventures Ltd. is a private equity and venture capital firm based in London, specializing in direct investments and fund of funds. The firm primarily invests in small and medium-sized enterprises across various sectors, with a particular focus on health, technology, and industry. Within the health sector, it targets areas such as digital health and patient-driven medicine, while in technology, it prefers investments in artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things. Octopus Ventures typically leads investment rounds, aiming to take board seats in its portfolio companies, and usually invests between £0.28 million and £25 million in companies with a minimum EBITDA of £0.5 million. Founded in 2007, the firm operates as a subsidiary of Octopus Investments and has additional offices in New York. The team provides support beyond financial investment, leveraging a network of global venture partners for expertise and guidance.

Par Equity LLP is a venture capital and private equity firm based in Edinburgh, Scotland, specializing in early-stage investments and growth opportunities in small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with high growth potential. Founded in 2008, the firm primarily targets companies within the technology sector, including digital health technology, and focuses on those that possess proprietary technology or proven commercial products poised for transatlantic expansion. Par Equity seeks to invest in Scottish companies aiming to enter the United States market and vice versa, while also considering opportunities in the North of England and Northern Ireland. The firm typically invests between £0.25 million and £2.5 million in companies with enterprise values up to £10 million. Par Equity utilizes government-approved tax wrappers to enhance returns for its investors and operates an additional office in San Francisco, California.

Parkwalk Advisors Ltd is a London-based venture capital firm that specializes in investing in technology companies, particularly those spun out of UK universities. Founded in 2009, the firm focuses on growth capital opportunities across various stages, including seed, early, mid, and late venture funding. Parkwalk primarily targets sectors such as healthcare, energy, materials, and digital technologies, with a preference for companies that possess intellectual property and operational freedom. The firm typically invests between £250,000 and £10 million, aiming to generate capital gains for investors while benefiting from tax relief incentives. Parkwalk leverages extensive networks in academia and technology transfer to access high-quality investment opportunities. In 2017, it became a subsidiary of IP Group Plc, enhancing its capabilities in intellectual property commercialization.

Seedcamp is a London-based venture capital investment firm founded in 2007, focusing on early-stage investments in technology sectors, including fintech and healthcare. The firm identifies and invests in exceptional founders tackling significant global challenges through innovative solutions. Over its decade-long history, Seedcamp has invested in more than 260 startups, including notable companies like TransferWise, Revolut, and UiPath. With a strategy designed to fast-track founders' visions, Seedcamp provides access to essential capital, a supportive community, and a vast global network built on extensive experience in nurturing talent. The companies backed by Seedcamp have collectively raised over $1 billion in further funding, demonstrating the firm's impact on the startup ecosystem in Europe and beyond.

The Wales Business Fund, managed by the Development Bank of Wales, is a direct lending initiative designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Wales. Established in 2001 by the Welsh Assembly Government, the fund focuses on providing commercial financing to businesses across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and information technology. It typically invests between £50,000 and £2 million, catering to both startups and established companies. The fund aims to facilitate growth and development by offering tailored financial solutions, including loans and equity investments. Operating from Wrexham, the Wales Business Fund prioritizes businesses located in Wales or those willing to relocate, thereby contributing to the regional economy and fostering innovation within the local market.

Ascension Ventures Limited is a private equity and venture capital firm based in the United Kingdom, focusing on early stage to later stage investments across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and creative industries. Established in 2012, the firm primarily invests in Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) companies, targeting sectors such as digital media, financial technology, educational technology, and health. It has a strategic emphasis on supporting UK-based businesses, having invested over £22 million across multiple funds since 2013. Ascension's investment strategy typically involves contributions ranging from £250,000 to £1.5 million, with a preferred exit timeline of four to seven years. In addition to direct investments, the firm is open to co-investment opportunities and operates a specialist fund focused on HealthTech and Life Sciences, further enhancing its portfolio.

Maven Capital Partners is an independent asset manager based in the United Kingdom, specializing in alternative investments with a focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and property development projects. Established in 2009 following a buyout of the Aberdeen Asset Management private equity division, the firm has grown to manage over £415 million in assets. Operating from a network of regional offices, Maven provides flexible equity and loan finance solutions tailored to the needs of UK SMEs at various stages of growth. The firm supports entrepreneurial ventures with funding ranging from £100,000 to £15 million, and is recognized as one of the most active private equity managers in the lower mid-market segment. Additionally, Maven offers investment opportunities in tax-efficient structures such as Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) and direct co-investment in private equity and property transactions, catering to a diverse range of investors.

Northstar Ventures Limited is a venture capital firm established in 2004 and based in Newcastle, United Kingdom. The firm specializes in both direct investments and fund of funds, targeting early-stage companies, including those in Series A, B, and C rounds, as well as pre-seed and growth capital investments. Its investment portfolio spans various sectors, such as digital media, clean technology, healthcare, and telecommunications. Northstar Ventures primarily focuses on opportunities within the United Kingdom, particularly in the North East of England, including County Durham, Northumberland, and Tyne and Wear. The firm typically invests between £0.02 million and £0.75 million, with the potential for larger investments up to £2 million, in businesses with a turnover of up to €50 million. In addition to its direct investments, Northstar Ventures manages funds like the North East Social Investment Fund, supporting social enterprises in the region.

Fuel Ventures is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2014 that specializes in early-stage investments in technology companies, particularly in the marketplaces, platforms, and SaaS sectors. The firm focuses on identifying high-potential startups during their seed and growth stages, aiming to support businesses with proven models that can scale rapidly and achieve international reach. Fuel Ventures has invested in over 65 companies, emphasizing partnerships with exceptional entrepreneurs who possess innovative technologies. The firm provides a supportive environment for these entrepreneurs, combining mentorship, sector expertise, and a strong network to help transform their visions into successful businesses. By fostering collaboration and innovation, Fuel Ventures aims to drive substantial returns and contribute to the next era of technological advancement.

YFM Equity Partners LLP is a venture capital and private equity firm based in Leeds, United Kingdom, with additional offices in London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Sheffield. Established in 1982, the firm focuses on providing equity finance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across various sectors, including energy, healthcare, consumer goods, and technology. YFM Equity Partners typically invests between £2 million and £10 million in growth capital, management buyouts, and other investment opportunities. The firm aims for a majority stake in its portfolio companies and actively seeks board membership to support business development. With a preference for companies outside primary industries, YFM targets firms in the UK, particularly in regions such as Yorkshire and the North West, as well as opportunities in the United States. The firm generally plans to exit its investments within five years through sales or public listings.

LDC is a private equity firm established in 1981 and serves as the private equity arm of the Lloyds Banking Group. Specializing in the mid-market segment, LDC provides financial investments, offering up to £100 million for buyouts and development capital transactions in unquoted UK companies. The firm's client portfolio includes a diverse range of industries such as technology, media, telecommunications, support services, retail, travel, leisure, healthcare, construction, and financial services. LDC has supported approximately 550 small and mid-sized companies since its inception, engaging in various investment types, including management buyouts, development capital, secondary buyouts, and institutional buyouts.

MMC Ventures is a London-based venture capital firm established in 2000, specializing in early-stage investments in transformative technology companies across various sectors, including consumer technology, financial technology, and artificial intelligence. The firm primarily targets UK-based companies, particularly in Greater London, and focuses on those that utilize software, the internet, and data. MMC Ventures typically invests between £25,000 and £7 million over time, with a preference for leading investments and taking minority stakes. It seeks to partner with companies that have annual sales of at least £1 million and aims to exit investments within three to five years. Notable companies in its portfolio include Gousto, Interactive Investor, and NewVoiceMedia. MMC Ventures emphasizes a deep understanding of the technology and business models of its portfolio companies to enhance its role as an effective partner.

LocalGlobe is a UK-based venture capital firm that focuses on seed and impact investments. Seeding ambitious UK founders since 1999 inc Citymapper, Improbable, Lovefilm, Moo, Tweetdeck, Transferwise and Zoopla.

Entrepreneur First Operations Limited is an accelerator focused on seed funding for technology startups, founded in 2011 and headquartered in London, with additional offices in Singapore, Berlin, Paris, Bangalore, and Hong Kong. The firm specifically invests in individuals at the "pre-team, pre-idea" stage, selecting participants based solely on their technical talent. Its intensive six-month program aims to provide comprehensive support during the critical early stages of startup development. Entrepreneur First offers stipends to participants during the program, with varying amounts based on location. The firm typically invests in startups in London, Singapore, Bangalore, Berlin, Paris, and Hong Kong, taking a 10 percent equity stake. Over the years, it has successfully launched more than 100 startups, collectively valued at over $1 billion, and is backed by notable investors such as Y Combinator, Index Ventures, and Octopus Ventures.

The British Business Bank, established in 2014, is a state-owned economic development bank in the United Kingdom focused on enhancing the finance markets for smaller businesses. By leveraging governmental resources and expertise, the bank designs programs that improve access to finance for various business sectors. Its commercial subsidiary, British Business Investments, operates independently to seek investments while aiming for commercial returns, without relying on government advantages. The bank collaborates with a diverse array of finance providers, including banks, leasing companies, venture capital funds, and online platforms, to effectively address the unique financial needs of smaller enterprises and stimulate economic growth.

JamJar Investments LLP is a venture capital firm based in London, United Kingdom, focusing on seed and early-stage investments in high-growth consumer brand businesses across both digital and non-technical sectors, including food and drink. Founded by the creators of innocent drinks, the firm leverages over 14 years of operational and commercial experience to support entrepreneurs throughout their journeys. JamJar typically invests between £0.15 million and £1 million in initial funding rounds, with the capacity to provide follow-on investments. The firm prefers to work with teams of more than one person and often leads or co-invests alongside other partners. Its primary focus is on European businesses, aiming to foster innovation and growth in the consumer services and products market.

Future Planet Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2016 and based in London, United Kingdom. The firm specializes in capital growth and invests across various stages, including seed, early, mid, and late venture stages, as well as fund of funds investments. It focuses on companies that aim to commercialize research from UK universities, particularly in sectors addressing climate change, education, healthcare, security, and sustainable growth. By connecting large investors with innovative solutions, Future Planet Capital seeks to profitably tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges while supporting the development of breakthrough technologies.

Speedinvest GmbH is a venture capital firm founded in 2011 and based in Vienna, Austria, specializing in early-stage investments in technology-related startups across Europe. The firm focuses on sectors such as deep tech, fintech, health, industrial tech, consumer marketplaces, software as a service, and climate tech. Speedinvest typically invests between €0.25 million and €3 million in pre-seed to Series A stages, aiming to take minority stakes of up to 20% in its portfolio companies. The firm emphasizes operational support, often taking on active roles within the companies it invests in for periods ranging from six months to a year. With additional offices in cities including San Francisco, Berlin, Paris, London, and Munich, Speedinvest seeks to leverage a global network to enhance its contributions to Europe’s startup ecosystem.

Haatch Ventures LLP is a venture capital firm and incubator based in Stamford, United Kingdom, founded in September 2013 by Scott Weavers-Wright, Elaine Weavers-Wright, and Fred Soneya. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in technology sectors such as software as a service (SaaS), artificial intelligence, and retail technology. Haatch specializes in providing growth capital to startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, typically investing between £100,000 and £300,000 while participating in rounds up to £2 million. In addition to financial support, the firm offers strategic guidance and networking opportunities to enhance the prospects of success for its portfolio companies. Haatch also manages an EIS fund aimed at investing in scalable and disruptive business models, particularly those that have achieved early market traction and are seeking support to scale to Series A.

SOSV is a global venture capital firm founded in 1995 and headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey. Specializing in seed-to-growth stage investments, SOSV operates multiple accelerator programs worldwide, including HAX for hardware, IndieBio and RebelBio for life sciences, Chinaccelerator and MOX for cross-border internet ventures, Food-X for innovative food solutions, and dlab for blockchain technology. The firm focuses on investments in revolutionary deep technologies aimed at improving human and planetary health, as well as cross-border markets, particularly in Asia. SOSV invests in approximately 150 startups annually, providing support through its resources to accelerate product development and scaling. Over its two-decade history, SOSV has established a strong reputation, consistently ranking among the top venture capital firms globally.

IQ Capital Partners LLP is a venture capital firm based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, specializing in early-stage technology investments across various sectors. Founded in 2006, the firm focuses on deep tech companies that demonstrate potential for significant market impact. IQ Capital typically invests between £0.3 million and £5 million initially, with the capacity for follow-on investments of up to £15 million. The firm seeks to support both pre-revenue and post-revenue businesses, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and the Internet of Things. IQ Capital aims to invest in companies located in the UK, with a preference for regions in less developed parts of East England. The firm collaborates with angel investors and often takes an active role in its portfolio companies by appointing board members. With a track record of over 30 successful exits, the firm has demonstrated its capability to identify and nurture high-potential technology ventures.

Techstart Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, specializing in seed capital investments across Scotland and Northern Ireland. The firm focuses on supporting ambitious founders in their pursuit of growth and success, particularly within the financial services sector. By providing essential funding and guidance, Techstart Ventures aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the region, establishing itself as a trusted partner for emerging companies.

Seedrs is a prominent online platform that facilitates equity investment in startups and growth companies across Europe. Recognized as the most active investor in private companies in the UK, Seedrs enables a diverse range of investors to support businesses they believe in, thereby sharing in their success. The platform offers a streamlined and professional online process that safeguards investors and promotes business growth. Through Seedrs, growth-oriented companies can effectively raise capital while fostering a vibrant business community, making it easier for seed stage startups to secure the funding they need.

Bethnal Green Ventures is an accelerator based in London, specializing in early-stage technology startups that address social and environmental issues. Founded in 2010, it focuses on sectors such as healthcare, education, sustainability, and social care. The firm operates a three-month program twice a year, investing £20,000 in teams of two to four people in exchange for a six percent equity stake. Since its inception, Bethnal Green Ventures has invested in over 120 businesses, with more than half remaining active. The organization aims to blend purpose with profit, contributing to 15 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. As a certified B Corporation, it plays a significant role in promoting the Tech for Good movement in Europe.

Downing is an investment firm focused on enhancing the financial wellbeing of its investor community through the design and management of investment products. With over 35,000 investors, the firm has successfully raised and invested more than £1.7 billion in various sectors, including renewable energy, care homes, health clubs, and children's nurseries. Downing Ventures, a division of Downing LLP, specializes in venture capital investments in early and growth stage technology businesses. The firm seeks to support visionary entrepreneurs with the ability to execute their ideas, targeting companies with significant market potential, distinct product advantages, and manageable adoption risks. Investments typically range from £250,000 to £5 million, covering seed-stage and Series A deals, with ongoing support provided as companies grow. Downing is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, ensuring compliance and trust in its operations.

FSE C.I.C. is an independent not-for-profit Community Interest Company (C.I.C.) whose surpluses are reinvested in the business, rather than being driven by the need to maximise profit for shareholders and owners. FSE C.I.C. has a number of subsidiary companies to deliver its funds and services, which are collectively referred to as The FSE Group. All regulated activities are delivered through FSE Fund Managers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Finance East Limited delivers funding for businesses based in the East of England region.

Amadeus I is a venture capital fund managed by Amadeus Capital Partners, based in London, England. Founded in 1997, Amadeus Capital Partners focuses on investing across the technology spectrum, including software and technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT). The firm targets investments at all stages, from seed funding to venture buyouts, and also acquires stakes from other investors to support company growth. With a diverse investment strategy, Amadeus Capital Partners has backed over 130 companies and raised more than $1 billion for investment across various sectors, including enterprise software, medical technology, and clean energy solutions. The firm combines technical insight, operational experience, and a global network to assist entrepreneurs in realizing their business visions.

Index Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 1996, with offices in London, San Francisco, and Geneva. The firm specializes in investing in high technology and life sciences, focusing on early-stage companies across various sectors including artificial intelligence, machine learning, fintech, healthcare, and entertainment. Index Ventures partners with innovative entrepreneurs who aim to transform their industries and has supported the growth of notable companies such as Adyen, Deliveroo, Dropbox, Farfetch, King, Slack, and Supercell. The firm's investment strategy typically involves allocating between $2 million to $20 million to promising ventures, primarily in Europe and the United States.

Balderton Capital is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2000 that focuses on early-stage investments in European technology startups. The firm specializes in series A funding, investing primarily in sectors such as enterprise software, e-commerce, fintech, consumer services, and mobile computing. Balderton typically invests between $0.1 million and $50 million, with a preference for funding startups in the range of $3 million to $5 million. The firm seeks to take a minority stake of 20% to 40% in its portfolio companies and often prefers a board seat to provide guidance throughout the growth phases. While its primary focus is on companies in France, Spain, and Portugal, Balderton is open to opportunities beyond Europe. The firm has a history of supporting innovative companies from their initial stages through to maturity, leveraging a network of executives with extensive experience in building technology ventures.

Passion Capital Investments LLP is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2011, focusing on early-stage investments in technology companies, particularly within digital media, mobile, and internet sectors. The firm primarily invests in European markets, with a strong emphasis on the United Kingdom, and typically commits between $0.025 million and $0.38 million. Passion Capital is led by a team of experienced entrepreneurs and operators, including Stefan Glaenzer, Eileen Burbidge, and Robert Dighero, who have been involved in significant European technology exits. They emphasize the importance of passionate and capable founders as critical to a business's success. Passion Capital also fosters a collaborative ecosystem through initiatives like White Bear Yard, a hub designed to support technology activities and ambitions.

BOOST&Co provides debt solutions to innovative SMEs in Europe. They understand innovation and entrepreneurship and they create financing solutions to help SMEs develop. At BOOST&Co they don’t have a fixed lending model. Every one of their loans is individually designed to fit each SME’s needs. Precision Lending doesn’t require you to give up control or autonomy – they don’t want to run your company. If they didn’t like the way you do things, they wouldn’t be lending to you. BOOST&Co is independent and thinks independently. This means they only lend where they think the situation is right. They manage their own capital and make their own decisions.

Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983 and based in Palo Alto, California, with additional offices in San Francisco, London, and Bangalore. The firm specializes in early and growth-stage investments, focusing on technology sectors such as software, big data, cloud technologies, fintech, healthcare, and digital media. Accel is known for backing innovative entrepreneurs and has a history of investing in notable companies including Facebook, Dropbox, and Spotify. With over three decades of experience, Accel employs dedicated teams that utilize market-specific strategies to identify and support the next generation of industry leaders. The firm manages approximately $9.6 billion and carries out investments typically ranging from $5 million to $15 million, aiming to foster the development of world-class, category-defining businesses globally.

Praetura Ventures is a venture capital investment firm established in 2011 and based in Manchester, United Kingdom. The firm focuses on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing capital and asset financing services, particularly through leasing and hire purchase arrangements. Praetura Ventures specializes in early-stage investments, primarily targeting sectors such as artificial intelligence, gaming, healthtech, life sciences, and cybersecurity. The firm is known for its proactive and supportive investment approach, which emphasizes collaboration with entrepreneurs to help maximize their business potential. The Praetura EIS 2020 Fund, managed by the firm, aims to invest in the north of England, typically making six to eight investments. Praetura Ventures has built a strong reputation for delivering value through its differentiated strategies and positive relationships with portfolio companies.

Plug and Play, founded in 2006 and based in Sunnyvale, California, operates as a business accelerator and venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage and seed investments in technology startups. The firm runs 12 industry-specific accelerator programs annually, connecting startups with corporate partners and investors to foster collaboration and growth. Plug and Play's investment strategy encompasses a wide range of sectors, including fintech, health and wellness, travel, cybersecurity, and sustainability, allowing it to support diverse startups from any country. The firm provides various resources, including funding, mentorship, office space, and networking opportunities, and has a global presence with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia. Plug and Play has a strong track record, having helped numerous startups secure over $9 billion in funding since its inception. Its programs aim to refine business models and facilitate introductions to potential investors, ultimately contributing to the growth of the startup ecosystem.

Draper Esprit is a London-based private equity and venture capital firm established in 2006, with additional offices in Cambridge, Dublin, Helsinki, and Paris. It specializes in investing in technology-oriented businesses at various stages of their lifecycle, from seed and series A rounds to growth capital and late-stage investments. The firm focuses on sectors such as digital technology, financial technology, healthcare, and deep tech, and typically invests between €0.02 million and €10 million in companies based in Europe, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Draper Esprit prioritizes both minority and majority investments, allocating a significant portion of its corpus to very early-stage companies. The firm is known for backing high-growth, disruptive companies, including notable names like Revolut and Trustpilot. By going public in 2016, Draper Esprit aimed to provide entrepreneurs with more flexible funding options and longer-term support, leveraging its international networks and extensive experience in building successful businesses.

The UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund is backed by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and the Fund’s partners are 9 publicly funded research bodies, including STFC, BBSRC, NERC and Dstl. The Fund is independently managed by venture capital specialist Midven. They help build companies from great science developed in laboratories, science and technology campuses and synthetic biology. They hold investments in some of the UK’s most innovative companies, in areas as diverse as novel antibiotics, research into Alzheimer’s disease, “green” chemicals and airport security.

FJ Labs is a U.S.-based investment firm established in 2015 by Fabrice Grinda. The firm operates with a stage-agnostic approach, primarily targeting marketplaces and consumer-facing startups. FJ Labs focuses its investments on seed and Series A rounds, with a financial commitment ranging from $50,000 to $5,000,000. The firm has invested in a variety of notable companies, including Alibaba Group, beepi, BrightRoll, Betterment, and ADORE ME.

Episode 1 Ventures LLP is a London-based venture capital firm focused on seed and startup investments in early-stage technology companies, primarily in the software, SaaS, and information technology sectors. Established in 2013, the firm aims to support high-growth businesses in the United Kingdom by investing between £0.25 million and £2 million in seed and Series A funding rounds. Episode 1 is recognized as one of the UK Government's Enterprise Capital Funds, leveraging both public and private investments to back entrepreneurs with a strong vision and the capability to disrupt their industries. The firm actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing hands-on support to help them grow and navigate challenges. It seeks entrepreneurs who are data-driven, knowledgeable about their customers, and passionate about executing their ideas. Typically, they invest in companies that have launched their products and established initial client relationships, with revenues ranging from zero to £50,000 per month at the time of investment.

Mercia Fund Managers is a venture capital fund manager based in central Birmingham, specializing in early-stage technology start-ups primarily in the West Midlands region. With approximately £12.8 million under management across multiple funds, including Mercia Funds 1, 2, and the Mercia Digital Fund, the firm seeks to invest in companies demonstrating strong potential for rapid growth, particularly those with a solid proprietary position related to their technology and intellectual property. Initial investments typically range from £50,000 to £250,000, with the possibility of follow-on funding up to £1 million per company. Mercia Fund Managers collaborates with a mix of public and private sector investors and often engages in syndication with other venture capital firms for later funding rounds. The company is regulated by the Financial Services Authority and is a member of the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association, further affirming its commitment to fostering innovation within the UK technology sector.

Notion Capital is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2009 that specializes in investing in early-stage B2B SaaS and enterprise technology companies across Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific. The firm primarily focuses on series A to series D investments and targets sectors such as cloud computing, fintech, ad tech, cybersecurity, and health tech. Notion aims to support high-potential businesses by fostering strong relationships and helping shape their growth strategies to achieve significant scale. Its commitment to the technology and cloud markets positions Notion as a key player in nurturing the next generation of innovative startups.

Mercia Fund Managers is a specialist asset management firm headquartered in Preston, primarily focused on equity and debt investments in the United Kingdom. The firm supports regional businesses in achieving their growth goals through a comprehensive approach known as the "Complete Capital Solution," which encompasses four distinct asset classes: venture capital, private equity, and debt. Mercia aims to be the preferred choice for investors, investees, and employees by delivering superior returns for business owners, shareholders, and fund investors. Through its proactive investment strategy, Mercia plays a vital role in fostering the development of businesses throughout the region.

Goldman Sachs is a global investment banking, securities, and investment management firm headquartered in New York City. Established in 1869, it provides a wide range of financial services to corporations, financial institutions, governments, and high-net-worth individuals. The firm operates through several segments, including Investment Banking, which offers financial advisory services related to mergers and acquisitions, and underwriting services for public and private offerings. Its Institutional Client Services segment facilitates client transactions across various asset classes and provides services like securities lending. The Investing & Lending segment focuses on long-term loans and investments in debt and equity securities, while the Investment Management segment offers portfolio management and wealth advisory services. Additionally, Goldman Sachs engages in private equity investments across multiple sectors and geographies, reinforcing its position as a leading investor in both public and private markets.

Insight Partners is a global private equity and venture capital firm established in 1995, specializing in growth-stage investments in the software, internet, and data services sectors. Headquartered in New York City, with additional offices in London, Tel Aviv, and Palo Alto, the firm manages over $75 billion in assets and has invested in more than 750 companies worldwide. Insight Partners focuses on partnering with high-growth technology and software companies that are driving significant change in their industries. The firm aims to support visionary executives by providing practical, hands-on expertise throughout their growth journey, from initial investment to public offering. With a strong commitment to fostering a culture of growth and opportunity, Insight Partners has seen over 55 portfolio companies achieve IPO status.

Equity Gap is an Edinburgh-based business angel syndicate comprised of 150 active members who invest in and support emerging and growing businesses. The group focuses on assisting young companies that have received the SMART award and those that have undergone a pre-investment commercialization process. While they primarily consider high-growth companies with a solid market presence and clear exit strategies, they are open to reviewing other potential investments. Funding typically ranges from £20,000 to £500,000, with the syndicate often collaborating with other groups and the Scottish Enterprise Co-Investment Fund to secure necessary capital. Equity Gap provides ongoing business expertise and support to the companies they invest in. The syndicate convenes monthly in central Edinburgh, where members hear presentations from two companies, discuss current investments, and review business plans circulated in the previous month.

Force Over Mass Capital is a venture capital firm established in 2013 and located in London, United Kingdom. The firm specializes in early-stage technology investments, primarily focusing on B2B innovation within four key sectors: fintech, artificial intelligence, software-as-a-service (SaaS), and Industry 4.0. Force Over Mass Capital operates both seed and scale-up funds, providing financial support to help early-stage businesses navigate their growth journey across the UK and Europe. The firm is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, ensuring compliance with industry standards.