Raising capital is one of the biggest challenges for early-stage businesses. The good news? The UK’s Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) can be the difference. You can access these schemes without needing an immediate investment round to access funding, and you don’t even have to be a “start up”.

These government backed schemes are designed to encourage investment in the UK by offering attractive tax reliefs to investors. The schemes help businesses access growth capital at a critical time whilst providing investors with a reduction in their income tax (and hopefully, capital gains tax) exposure.

We often see businesses try to manage the process themselves, using widely available platforms; the DIY approach seems simple, until it isn’t – errors, delays and missed opportunities are common and the knock-on effect can be catastrophic. We’re able to mitigate that risk, managing the process from day one so you can unlock investment without the common pitfalls.

Here’s how we can help businesses navigate SEIS and EIS to secure essential funding – without the headaches.

1. Nailing your application

SEIS and EIS come with strict eligibility requirements and application processes with subtle differences. It’s all about ensuring the quality of the information is fit for purpose as we guide you through the necessary documentation. By managing the process end-to-end, we eliminate confusion and allow leadership teams to stay focused on running their business.

2. Inspiring investor confidence

These schemes aren’t just about tax relief – they’re about giving your business that real growth potential. Both schemes require there to be a ‘risk to capital’ for the investor, but in addressing both this and the company requirement “grow and develop”, investment under the EIS scheme gives potential investors the confidence in the leadership team, as they envision the company’s broader growth strategy, in a tax-efficient way.

3. Driving results with strategy

SEIS supports very early-stage, often pre-revenue businesses, while EIS is better suited to those slightly further along, and gearing up to scale. We help founders understand how to utilise both schemes, where possible, and this can also involve investment through Advance Subscription Agreements. This allows for a broader strategy for securing investment, in order to maximise company valuations whilst accessing much-needed funds, before a priced round. From setting realistic growth targets to ensuring ongoing compliance, we help businesses use these schemes as a platform for long-term success.

Here at Wilson Partners we are a member of Enterprise Investment Scheme Association (EISA), and have significant experience in helping businesses navigate the more complex aspects of SEIS and EIS, we’re able to simplify the process so our clients can focus on what matters most – building great businesses. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or want to explore these schemes, and how to put them into action, in more detail; get in touch with our team today.