From idea to investment: how The Angel’s Share can connect growth businesses to IFS funding

The Angel’s Share plays a vital early-stage role in Scotland’s funding ecosystem, acting as a front door for ambitious Perth and Kinross businesses before they formally engage with equity investors, or lenders.

Delivered by Raising Expert on behalf of Perth and Kinross Council, the programme supports founders to become investment ready through pitching events, coaching and introductions to funders. Crucially, it helps businesses understand the different funding routes available – from smaller loans and growth debt to venture capital – and to identify which option best fits their stage, ambitions and financial profile. 

Offering introductions to many Venture Capital Groups and private investors throughout Scotland, the programme also links businesses to the key providers in the Investment Fund for Scotland (IFS).

• DSL Business Finance for smaller IFS loans (£25k–£100k)
• The FSE Group for growth loans (£100k–£2m)
• Maven Capital Partners for equity investment via IFS Maven Equity Finance (up to £5m)

The Investment Fund for Scotland (IFS) is a £150 million funding programme established by the British Business Bank to increase access to finance for Scottish SMEs and support long-term, sustainable economic growth.

Delivered through regional partners, IFS aims to address market gaps, encourage innovation, create jobs and ensure ambitious businesses across Scotland can secure the capital they need to scale and compete. It provides a range of debt and equity funding options to businesses at different stages of development, from early growth to established companies pursuing new expansion plans.

Businesses are encouraged to speak to partners early in their funding journey, as Norrie Cook, Head of Funds (Scotland) at The FSE Group explains.

“We actively encourage businesses to get in touch with us as early as possible in their growth journey. Having conversations early allows us to offer practical guidance on the most appropriate funding routes and help founders understand what we can offer, and what is expected of them.

"We may not always be able to say yes immediately, but that doesn’t mean the conversation ends there. An important part of our role is to support businesses in strengthening their proposition and reaching the criteria required. And if we’re not the right partner, we will say so quickly and will make introductions to others who may be better matched to their needs.

"Ultimately, we’re here to help, support and grow Scottish businesses, and to play a positive, long-term role in Scotland’s funding ecosystem and economy.”

This advice is echoed by Finlay Kerr of Raising Expert. “By preparing founders early, improving the quality of funding applications and matching businesses to the right type of capital, The Angel’s Share helps ensure the Scottish Investment Fund is efficiently deployed, de-risked and works effectively for companies, communities and the wider economy.”

An excellent example of this partnership in motion, is Praveen Kumar's success in securing £500K of equity funding from Maven, following his second Angel's Share pitch.

Other Routes to Business Growth Support

If you’re not quite ready for funding but are looking to grow and expand your business then Business Gateway, Perth and Kinross, is an excellent partner and solid starting point. Links for Business Gateway, and other sources of support from PKC, can be found on our Business Support in Perth and Kinross page.

Not sure if your business is ready for investment or debt funding? Read more on why external funding could be the game changer for business growth >