In an era where socially, responsible investing is gaining prominence, our specialist programme inc. The Social Incubator provides a platform for investors looking for such opportunities. As a new and expanding force, now working with our fourth cohort of social entrepreneurs in the social investment space, we take pride in fostering innovative ideas, which through a multifaceted approach,  redefine the narrative of responsible investment finance. Part of the Aster Foundation (which is part of housing association Aster Group) inc. our social incubator nurtures impactful societal enterpris ..read more

Relevic enables businesses to boost retention and conversion by tapping into the power of dynamic website personalisation! Relevic, a web personalisation SaaS platform, has secured £150,000 in a pre-Seed round led by early-stage venture capital firm Jenson Funding Partners. Launched in 2023 by Ali Sohail, Saad Sohail and Fahd Sheikh, the funding will be used to enhance the product whilst increasing customer acquisition. Relevic’s innovative platform delivers personalised web experiences tailored to each customer’s preferences and behaviour. Its customers can create multiple, parallel live vers ..read more

As you explore the possibilities of SEIS/EIS for your startup, there’s a pivotal step you shouldn’t overlook: obtaining advance assurance. While it might sound like just another item on your to-do list, its importance can’t be understated. Advance assurance acts as a green light, not just for your business, but also for potential investors. Let’s unpack what it is and why it’s so crucial for your journey. What is Advance Assurance? Advance assurance is essentially a thumbs-up from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) indicating that your startup is likely eligible for SEIS/EIS. This preliminary nod ..read more

  In the bustling world of UK startups, securing funding is often a pivotal moment that can set the stage for future success. Among the myriad of options available, the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) stand out. These government-backed schemes are designed to help startups and early-stage companies raise money by offering tax reliefs to investors. However, before jumping into the fundraising pool, there’s a crucial first step you need to take: obtaining Advance Assurance. This initial move not only streamlines the process for your poten ..read more

Embarking on the journey to set up an Employee Share Scheme (ESS) in your UK startup can be an exhilarating step towards fostering a culture of ownership, innovation, and shared success. It’s about showing your team that their hard work and dedication will not only be recognised but also rewarded in the company’s growth. Here are the foundational steps to get you started on the right foot. Understand Your Objectives Begin by clarifying why you want to introduce an ESS. Is it to attract top talent, retain your best employees, or ensure that everyone’s efforts are aligned with the company’s gro ..read more

If you’re eyeing the SEIS/EIS schemes as a golden ticket to funding and growth, you’re on the right path. But, there’s a catch – you’ve got to tick certain boxes to qualify. Worry not, we’re here to break down the eligibility criteria for both schemes, making sure you know if your startup stands a chance to benefit from these financial boosts. Let’s unravel the mystery. SEIS/EIS Eligibility: A Closer Look Both the SEIS and EIS have been designed with specific types of businesses in mind, aiming to fuel innovation and growth in the UK economy. While they share some common ground, the criteria ..read more

The funding ecosystem for startups is witnessing a transformative shift in 2024, with venture debt and crowdfunding emerging as formidable alternatives to traditional equity financing. This evolution marks a pivotal moment for entrepreneurs and founders looking to scale their businesses while retaining more control and equity. Let’s delve into how these financing models are reshaping the startup landscape and what they mean for founders in 2024 – beginning with what these types of financing are, and why they’re popular. The Rise of Venture Debt Venture debt is essentially a loan provided to st ..read more

Darksquare, the recently-launched investment platform specialising in private market and alternative assets, is excited to unveil its latest offerings set to launch in the coming weeks.   Deal 1: Landlord Factoring Facility Darksquare presents an exclusive opportunity for its customers to invest in a diversified portfolio of landlord factoring lines tailored to UK landlords. These factoring lines are uniquely secured against the income generated from the landlord’s tenants, as well as equity stakes in the properties themselves. With a compelling yield of 15% per annum and a term of 2 year ..read more

In the latest article SmallCap Round Up from The Armchair Trader we saw two companies that are intending to join us very shortly. Molecular Energies PLC [LON:MEN] topped the board, up 60%. Whilst the stock has had a tough ride in recent months, yesterday’s confirmation that the business would move its listing from AIM to the JP Jenkins private venue has offered some clarity, allowing the share price to post a meaningful recovery as a result. Redx Pharma [LON:REDX] was in second place, up 22%. Again this is a business that has elected to leave the main market and migrate to the JP Jen ..read more

Cafédirect Plc plc is a British coffee company established in 1991 that is driven by a passion for fairness and sustainability. They are known for their commitment to ethical sourcing, focusing on fair trade and direct relationships with coffee farmers. Cafedirect sources their coffee beans from various regions around the world, including Latin America, Africa, and Asia. They work directly with small-scale farmers, ensuring fair prices and sustainable practices. JP Jenkins provides a share trading venue for unlisted or unquoted assets in companies, enabling shareholders and prospective in ..read more