How to enter the East of England Investment Catalyst
East Anglia’s most exciting tech companies will get the chance to pitch their ideas to some of the country’s leading business investors at a new showcase which aims to be a catalyst for growth in the region.
The East of England Investment Catalyst has been launched to highlight some of the region’s brightest tech stars. The application process is open now, and shortlisted companies will receive coaching and advice to hone their propositions, before presenting them to a panel of expert judges. Finalists will then be selected to pitch to an audience of investors and business leaders at an event being held at Rise London in November.
The Tech Corridor has organised the Investment Catalyst, working with partners Anglia Capital Group, Barclays Eagle Labs, Invest East, New Anglia LEP and Price Bailey.
Cambridge Norwich Tech Corridor programme director Linn Clabburn, left, says the Investment Catalyst can help take the region’s businesses to the next level
Linn Clabburn, programme director of the Cambridge Norwich Tech Corridor, said: “Having worked in venture capital for several years, I know raising investment is a challenging process, and early or growth stage companies can struggle to connect with the people they need to fulfil their potential.
“The East of England Investment Catalyst aims to support companies from Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire in raising their profile, improving their pitches and building their network of investors.
“At the Tech Corridor we know the region is home to companies that can shape the future of food, energy, medicine and mobility, and we hope we can play a small part in taking these businesses to the next level.”
The Investment Showcase is specifically targeting established high-growth companies looking for post-seed/Series-A investments. Companies from sectors such as life sciences, med-tech, digital/ICT, agri-tech, engineering/manufacturing and logistics from across the region are encouraged to apply.
"Supporting talented individuals and exciting companies"
Anthony Pryke, eco-system manager for Barclays Eagle Lab in Norwich
Anthony Pryke, eco-system manager for Barclays Eagle Lab in Norwich, said: “Barclays Eagle Labs are pleased to be able to support the investment showcase, there are so many talented individuals and exciting companies coming out of our region.
“By being able to help facilitate the introduction of these to the investment networks outside of the region, some of which may not normally have the chance to interact with them is a great way to fly the flag of what is going on in the East.”
Hidden "talent and ingenuity"
Successful applicants will need to demonstrate a track record of previous fund raising, proof of market and a growth strategy.
Chand Chudasama, strategic corporate finance partner at Price Bailey, said: “Price Bailey works closely with small and large businesses across the Eastern region and we tend to find that businesses outside of Cambridge and London often don’t get the recognition they deserve.
“We are proud to partner with the investment showcase and demonstrate to a wider investment network the talent and ingenuity that is hidden away from the limelight.”
To apply for the East of England Investment Catalyst, visit www.investmentcatalyst.co.uk.
