News

Meet the Funder: South West

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In partnership with the British Business Bank, we are bringing you the founding investors of the South West’s newest angel investor network

Date and time
Thu, 22 Feb 2024 10:00 – 15:00 GMT

Location
Exeter Science Park

At a time when raising investment is difficult and cash is vital, it is more important than ever to fully understand the approach taken by investors when considering an investment opportunity.

In partnership with the British Business Bank, Exeter Science Park are offering you the opportunity to discuss, interrogate and question all things investment with local angel investors.

This fireside chat aims to guide you through the mind of an investor, explore their thinking when looking at opportunities and question their approach or thoughts on your own business proposition.

In addition to open Q&A, there will be an opportunity for 1-2-1 conversations with the investors following the fireside chat for selected businesses.

Who is this event for?

Businesses that are exploring or considering raising angel or equity investment.

Those exploring alternative sources to funding their existing business opportunities.

Founders who are seeking, raising, or interested in raising angel investment and want their questions answered.

SMEs eager to learn more about alternative financing opportunities.
What will be covered?

10:00 – 10:30 am – Arrival and Networking

10.30 – 10.35am – Intro and welcome from British Business Bank

10.35 – 10.40 am – Overview from Exeter Science Park

10:40 – 11:40 am – Fireside chat with Nick Sprague, angel investor

11:40 – 12:30 pm – Networking & Lunch

12.30 – 12.50 pm – Optional Science Park Tour

12:30 – 14:30 pm – 1-2-1 conversations with businesses and investors

14:30 – 15:00pm – Optional Science Park Tour

Who will we hear from?

Nick Sprague, active angel investor, having recently exited his business supplying processed fruit products to food and soft/alcoholic drink manufacturers in the UK and mainland Europe has gone on to invest in multiple businesses across the region whilst holding other NED and advisor roles. Nick is an active member of local angel network, MAINstream.

Dave Gough is also an active angel investor and member of MAINstream. Dave exited his business in 2017 when he sold to Mayborn having made and sold baby sleeping bags and grow bags. In addition to investing in early stage businesses Dave takes an active role in supporting businesses through board and advisor positions

Established by Michelmores in 2019 to help accelerate the growth of angel investing, particularly in the South West, MAINstream boasts an impressive pool of over 60 investors, many of whom started and exited their own businesses across the region. Run by Chloe and Harry from Michelmores, MAINstream is proud support innovative start-ups and exciting disruptive ventures with a particular sub-focus on female founded organisations.

What else do I need to know?

Please note that seating is limited, so be sure to secure your spot early. Lunch will be provided. A Tour of the Science Park will be available to those who are interested. Don’t miss this opportunity to network and gain valuable knowledge and insight from investors in the region.