Investor Circle

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Drew Ellis joins us from South Devon to share his entrepreneurial journey from designing iconic album covers for stars like Radiohead and Pink Floyd to running Eye to Eye Capital, a funding firm focused on projects aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

• Started as an art student working with Hypnosis, the famous design company behind Dark Side of the Moon
• Founded Icon, a record sleeve design agency with clients including Robert Plant, David Gilmour, and ABBA
• Sold his first business in 1989 to a UK print company looking for creative capabilities 
• Left corporate life after his board responded to his internet proposal with "the internet's a fad"
• Now runs Eye to Eye Capital, providing debt funding for sustainable projects
• Works with philanthropic funds offering 10-year interest-free loans that convert to grants
• Personal investment philosophy centers on understanding the product and trusting the people involved
• Currently considering investing in a South Devon rum company
• Key advice for founders: build resilience gradually and research potential investors carefully
• Emphasizes the importance of the founder-investor relationship: "You've got to like them"

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Virtual Incubation at Canopy
Virtual Incubation for new and emerging Founders. Zero to One.

Scribe
Find and connect with angel investors in the UK

Founded by Rob Cossins

Revolut
Business banking from Revolut

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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.

#TRIBE
Community Membership at Canopy

Scribe
Find and connect with angel investors in the UK

Founded by Rob Cossins

Virtual Incubation at Canopy
Virtual Incubation for new and emerging Founders. Zero to One.

Revolut
Business banking from Revolut

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Note: you can also watch these episodes on youtube.com/@canopycommunity617

Want to demystify the world of early-stage investments? Promise no more: this episode unpacks the labyrinth of SEIS and EIS tax relief and early-stage tech investment as we sit with Ed, an Investment Manager at SFC Capital. A fund that's not afraid to make bold moves, SFC Capital specializes in supporting startups from a variety of sectors, closing deals with the speed of a cheetah, and even offering follow-on funding to a select 10% of their portfolio companies each year.

Dive headfirst into the discussion as we uncover the secret sauce that makes or breaks an application at SFC Capital. How does their scoring system work? What does the ideal candidate look like? Ed shares his valuable insights on the key factors that influence SFC Capital's investment decisions - from the importance of a solid team composition to a steadfast commitment to the business and well-researched market analysis. We also get a peek into Ed's journey into investment, his personal criteria for choosing businesses to bank on, and his knack for spotting successful founders.

But it's not all about the start - what happens when it's time to make the shift from the initial stages to the later ones? We discuss the challenges of navigating late-stage investor expectations, the crucial need for a viable business model, and the undeniable importance of cash flow for success. Get a word of advice or two about early-stage investment strategies and tips, and learn about the thrill of finding the right investors, the role of luck in investment success, and the time it takes for returns to materialize. We also touch upon exciting developments in the space, including the potential of a secondary market to turbocharge investment and a novel fund designed to provide liquidity for founders. Time to sharpen your investment acumen with insights straight from the horse's mouth - tune in now!

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EP06 - Unveiling the Mechanisms of Angel Funding with Rui Falcao of Core Angels 

Ever wondered how angel funds operate and what part they play in startup investments? We're peeling back the layers on just that with our guest, Rui Falcao from Core Angels. Brace yourself for an intriguing exploration of the group's unique selection process, the crucial role of the Archangel group, and the significance of personality fit in investment choices. Listen in as Rui shares insights into the collective intellect and decision-making process within the investment committee, a strategy that helps to keep personality clashes at bay.

As we move on, you'll be captivated by the story of one of Core Angels' Godfathers. His entrepreneurial journey is packed with lessons and experiences that have shaped his understanding of entrepreneurship. We also delve into the impact of the Web Summit on Portugal, stirring up its entrepreneurial culture in meaningful ways. The episode wraps up with a focus on first-time founders, emphasizing the need to create personal meaning and offering valuable insights for both entrepreneurs and investors. We're joined by Stewart, the leader of the Canopy Community, whose knowledge and insights are a treasure trove for those in the entrepreneurial world. Buckle in for an episode full of revelations and wisdom.

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In supporting this podcast we thank our partners and sponsors. Check them out here https://linktr.ee/canopy_partners We like their stuff and hope you will to.

Note: you can also watch these episodes on youtube.com/@canopycommunity617

EP05 - Demystifying SPAC Investing with Securities Expert Julia Areyh

Join us as we traverse the intricate world of Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs) with Julia Areyh, a skilled securities attorney. Julia breaks down the complex landscape of these shell companies, which have become a preferred and cost-effective route for companies desiring to enter the US markets. Get an insider's perspective on the SPAC merger process and understand how investing in these entities guarantees a minimum return. 

Our conversation then shifts gears to focus on the SPAC process and the redemption intricacies, which have a considerable impact on the public company’s value. Julia underscores the significance of having current accounting information for companies planning their entrance into the US market via a SPAC. She also sheds light on the advantages of becoming a public company. 

The episode concludes on an inspirational note as Julia shares her journey of returning to the legal field after a hiatus and her experience with the dynamic SPAC landscape. She underscores the necessity of being open to opportunities and refraining from self-imposed limitations. Drawing on her vast experience, Julia offers practical advice to first-time founders looking for funding - take measured steps, utilize resources smartly, and explore various funding options beyond SPAC acquisitions. Tune in for priceless insights from Julia's vast experience in the field.

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In supporting this podcast we thank our partners and sponsors. Check them out here https://linktr.ee/canopy_partners We like their stuff and hope you will to.

Note: you can also watch these episodes on youtube.com/@canopycommunity617

EP04 - The New Wave of Investment: A Conversation with Ollie from Resonance

Are you ready to challenge traditional investment models and make a genuine difference? This episode is a must-listen, as we welcome Ollie from Resonance, a trailblazing Community Development Finance Institution based in the UK. We explore their unique approach to impact investing, providing growth-stage capital to social enterprises in the Southwest, West Midlands, and Northwest of England. Their portfolio ranges from ventures addressing economic inequality to enterprises focused on health, well-being, and the transition to net zero. Their investment model is unique, including unsecured loans, revenue shares, and a hint of natural equity.

We take you beneath the surface of social impact investing, dissecting the financial considerations and potential returns. Traditional methods of capturing value may not be the norm in this sphere, but it doesn't mean returns are unattainable. We discuss the intriguing concept of earning impact returns and explore tax relief schemes like the Social Investment Tax Relief and Community Investment Tax Relief. Ollie shares invaluable insights from his journey, revealing how it's shaped his perspective on the potential and power of aligning capital with our deepest social and environmental values.

Finally, we delve into the evolution of social and impact investing, spotlighting the significant strides made in the UK. The environment serves as a catalyst, and pension funds are stepping up, recognizing their responsibility extends beyond financial accumulation. Ollie imparts valuable advice for budding founders, underlining the impact of passion on social and environmental entrepreneurship. Tune in to learn how you can align your investments with your values and make a tangible difference in your community and beyond.

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In supporting this podcast we thank our partners and sponsors. Check them out here https://linktr.ee/canopy_partners We like their stuff and hope you will to.

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EP03 - Empowering Entrepreneurs: Insights from Henrique at Draper Startup House

Imagine stepping into a space where hospitality, education, and investment all come together to nurture creative minds. That's exactly what Henrique, from Drapers Startup House, brings to the table. As part of a global network spanning 25 cities, Henrique offers a fresh perspective on how co-working and co-living spaces can cultivate a vibrant community for entrepreneurs on the move. He talks about the unique model of Drapers Startup House, their $2 million micro VC fund and how their acceleration programs are not just about financial backing, but also building a platform for growth for early-stage founders.

Ever wondered how a global spread micro VC fund operates? We take a fascinating ride with Henrique, as he opens up about the distinctive investment approach at Drapers Startup House. With 23 investments in just one and a half years, the fund is making waves in startup hubs across the world. But it's not just about funding. Henrique talks about the priceless value of connecting startups to a network of 24 funds, mentors, and potential clients. His insights from his own experiences in business administration and innovation are a treasure trove for anyone stepping into the world of startups.

Henrique's wisdom doesn't stop there. He shares invaluable advice for first-time founders, stressing the importance of a clear core value proposition and the role of customer feedback. He also gives us a peek into the flourishing tech startup scene in Portugal, highlighting the kind of startups they invest in. Wrapping up, Henrik emphasizes the power of mentorship in challenging tunnel vision and offering diverse perspectives, thereby empowering founders to grow stronger. So, whether you're a first-time founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, there's a wealth of insights waiting for you in this episode. Tune in and let Henrik guide you through the exciting world of start-ups and venture capital.

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In supporting this podcast we thank our partners and sponsors. Check them out here https://linktr.ee/canopy_partners We like their stuff and hope you will to.

Note: you can also watch these episodes on youtube.com/@canopycommunity617

EP02 - Investing Beyond Profits: Mohammed Al Rasbi's Perspective

Picture a world where investment decisions are driven not just by money but by a deep commitment to founders and their visions. That's the world Mohammed Al Rasbi, founder and CEO of R&D Ventures and Labs, is creating. With two decades of investment experience under his belt, Mohammed has refined his approach towards startups, one that values long-term commitment and potential paths over immediate financial return. As a managing director at the Oman Technology Fund, he's witnessed the lifecycle of startups from pre-seed to growth, providing him unique insights that he generously shares in our conversation.

With top tips for first-time founders, Mohammed simplifies the daunting world of raising capital, stressing the significance of coachability, adaptability, and a continuous willingness to learn. He brings to spotlight the importance of cultivating a supportive community behind a venture and reveals how certain factors like time-bound social programs can curb a founder's risk-taking prowess. As an added bonus, he gives a sneak peek into his plans for the upcoming Web Summit and his thrill about investor reverse pitches. Brace yourself for a wealth of knowledge, actionable insights, and a fresh perspective on the startup ecosystem as we journey through Mohammed's exciting career.

Connect to Mohammed on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammed-alrasbi/

Support the show

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In supporting this podcast we thank our partners and sponsors. Check them out here https://linktr.ee/canopy_partners We like their stuff and hope you will to.

Note: you can also watch these episodes on youtube.com/@canopycommunity617

EP01 - Exploring the Future of Work and Venture Capital with Greg from Evergreen Mountain Equity Partners

Ready to uncover how the future of work is set to change the face of business? We're thrilled to have Greg, a founder of Evergreen Mountain Equity Partners, guide us through the fascinating shifts in workplace dynamics. From automation to the globalization of the workforce, Greg takes us on a journey of the venture fund's focus on the future of work. You'll get an insider's view of the rollercoaster ride from investment to business exit, and the crucial role of an exceptional founder in navigating this adventure.

In this candid conversation, we delve into Evergreen Mountain Equity Partners' exciting portfolio. It's home to forward-thinking companies like Chatter Works, C-Pow, and Hitch, all of which are revolutionizing talent sourcing and workforce management. We discuss Evergreen's exceptional summer camp initiative, where founders gather to connect and support each other, offering invaluable insights for budding entrepreneurs. We also shed light on how potential investments can catch the eye of this venture fund.

Closing our deep-dive, we swivel our focus on the future of work. From the makings of a successful founder to the criteria that Evergreen Mountain Equity Partners seeks in potential investments, we dissect what it takes to impress in this evolving field. Explore strategies for startups to captivate their first five customers, understand the significance of displaying product-market fit at an early stage, and learn how to pursue the right customers. Whether you're fascinated by the future of work or the world of venture capital, this episode promises a wealth of practical advice and insightful perspectives.

Connect to Greg on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmoran/ 

Support the show

https://linktr.ee/CanopyCommunity

In supporting this podcast we thank our partners and sponsors. Check them out here https://linktr.ee/canopy_partners We like their stuff and hope you will to.

Note: you can also watch these episodes on youtube.com/@canopycommunity617