Business angels are individuals who make equity investments in businesses with growth potential, businesses in the early stages of development, or in established businesses looking for expansion capital. Angels back high-risk opportunities, with the potential for high returns.
Some invest on their own, others through an angel syndicate or club. However, the most significant trend is for angels to invest in syndicates or groups, generally with a lead angel. At the seed stage, lower amounts of funding may be available. Businesses in the growth stage may be able to attract higher amounts from angel syndicates. Angels can offer multiple rounds of finance and frequently co-invest with other sources of equity and co-investment funds as further growth finance is required.
When taking on angel investment, a business should look beyond the capital they put in. Most angels can bring valuable first-hand experience of growing businesses, often early-stage businesses. Their skills and experience will be shared with the business, as well as their network of contacts. Most focus on investments within a small geographic area, and so have local knowledge and local networks. Angels often make investment decisions quickly, without complex assessments. However, tracking down the right angel can take time.
You can find out more through the UK Business Angels Association.
To explore the other finance options for your business, go back to the Finance Journey tool.
You will receive:
BUSINESS FINANCE GUIDE
Access to the right kind of finance at every stage in your growth journey enables businesses like yours to invest, grow and create jobs. That’s why the British Business Bank and ICAEW’s Corporate Finance Faculty, and partner organisations representing finance and business, have created the business finance guide.
Download our comprehensive guide in PDF format allowing you to print and read at your leisure.
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