Since 2003, our network has helped raise over £30 million across more than 200 investment transactions, connecting entrepreneurs with experienced investors, advisors and commercial networks.

We are particularly interested in businesses operating within:

• Technology

• SaaS

• AI & data-led ventures

• B2B platforms

• Scalable innovation-focused companies

While we review opportunities from a broad range of sectors, our investors are currently less focused on B2C and FMCG propositions.

Is Your Business Investment-Ready?

There is no perfect formula for attracting investment, but your business is more likely to gain investor interest if it can demonstrate some or all of the following:

1. Robust & Defensible Intellectual Property

A clear competitive advantage, proprietary technology, unique process or defensible market position.

2. A Scalable Business Model

Investors typically look for businesses capable of growth beyond the founder. Lifestyle businesses or ventures heavily dependent on one individual are generally less attractive from an investment perspective.

3. Strong Market Understanding

A clear and understandable business plan demonstrating:

• market awareness

• routes to market

• customer acquisition strategy

• commercial model

• revenue potential

4. Experienced Leadership

An experienced management team — ideally with a track record of delivery, growth or previous venture success.

5. A Clear Exit Strategy

Investors will want to understand the long-term commercial pathway and potential future exit opportunities.

6. Openness to Strategic Support

Businesses that identify skills gaps where angel investors could add value — whether through commercial experience, industry expertise or networks — are often particularly attractive.

YES to all 6?

Three Questions To Ask Yourself:

Before approaching investors, it can be useful to consider three simple questions:

1. Are You Solving a Meaningful Business Problem?

The strongest opportunities typically address a real operational, commercial or efficiency challenge within a sizeable market.

2. Can the Business Scale?

Investors are usually looking for businesses capable of substantial long-term growth, often through repeatable systems, technology or scalable delivery models.

3. Are You Ready For Investment?

You do not need to have everything perfected, but investors will expect:

• preparation

• realism

• commercial clarity

• financial acumen

• commitment

• coachability

YES to all 3?

What Our Entrepreneurs Receive

Selected businesses who work with us will gain access to:

• meaningful pitch opportunities

• direct introductions to experienced angel investors

• strategic feedback and guidance

• ongoing relationship-building opportunities

• access to the wider ABA network and Claret Club community

Our Friday investor meetings combine:

• founder pitches

• investor Q&A sessions

• networking

• informal lunch discussions with investors, founders and advisors

The process is selective, relationship-led and designed to support scalable businesses with strong commercial potential.

Preparing Your Business For Investment

While not exhaustive or prescriptive, the following points may help as you prepare for investment discussions.

Valuation

Valuation is often one of the most difficult aspects for early-stage businesses.

Traditional mature-company valuation metrics rarely apply to pre-revenue or early-stage ventures. Be realistic and avoid basing valuation solely on projected revenues several years into the future.

Strong opportunities combine ambition with commercial realism.

Due Diligence Preparation

If discussions progress positively, investors will usually undertake detailed due diligence.

It is helpful to prepare key documentation early, including:

• Memorandum & Articles of Association

• Shareholders’ Agreement

• company structure documents

• financial information

• cap table information

An “angel-friendly” Shareholders’ Agreement should typically include:

• pre-emption rights

• protection against excessive dilution in future rounds

• clarity around governance and shareholder rights

Your accountant or legal advisor should be able to assist with this process.

SEIS & EIS Eligibility

For many angel investors, advance assurance for:

• SEIS (Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme)

• EIS (Enterprise Investment Scheme)

is an essential prerequisite, as these schemes provide significant UK tax advantages for investors.

Please note that not all sectors qualify, including many:

• financial services businesses

• property-related schemes

For further information, please visit:

HMRC SEIS Guidance

Ready To Start The Conversation?

If you believe your business may align with our current investment focus, we would be pleased to hear from you.

You can register your business at no cost for a confidential assessment with us by filling in the simple form below. It will only take you a few moments to complete. We know it is a bit frustrating having to complete a form but without certain information we can’t make a judgement on our ability to help you.

We promise you will hear from us within 48 hours if we think we can help with your fundraising.

Advantage Business Angels take confidentiality very seriously. Your information will only be seen by our Partners or trusted investors  – we never share any information outside the business without getting your permission first.

REGISTER FOR INVESTMENT ASSESSMENT HERE: