Why Southwest Tech Startups Need More Angels
Manage episode 493760633 series 3497203
Ben Cooper, co-founder of Angel Investors Bristol and director of Tech Southwest, shares insights on building the largest angel investment network in Southwest England and redirecting capital to support regional tech innovation.
• Angel Investors Bristol formed in 2023, now has 150 members and has completed 10 investments
• The group receives 30-40 investment applications monthly but can only fund about two companies
• Current market conditions have shifted investments toward later-stage companies with existing revenue
• Average investments range from £50,000 to £200,000 at valuations of around £3-4 million
• 85% of angel investment from Southwest investors currently goes to companies outside the region
• Key investment criteria include market opportunity and strength of founding team
• New angel networks are launching across the Southwest including North Devon, Cornwall, and Cheltenham
• Founders need commercial capabilities alongside technical skills to be successful
• Self-awareness about personal limitations and team gaps is critical for startup success
To apply for funding, visit www.angelinvestorsbristol.co.uk and follow the application process through the founders page.
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Note: you can also watch these episodes on youtube.com/@canopycommunity617
Chapters
1. Why Southwest Tech Startups Need More Angels (00:00:00)
2. Meeting Ben Cooper (00:00:45)
3. From Financial Services to Angel Investing (00:03:55)
4. Building Angel Investors Bristol (00:06:50)
5. Investment Trends and Challenges (00:09:40)
6. What Makes a Good Investment (00:15:03)
7. Ben's Superpower and Advice (00:19:04)
8. Growing Angel Networks in Southwest (00:24:10)
5 episodes