New Cornwall Angel Network Launches, Bringing Fresh Investment to Local Start-Ups

Cornwall businesses now have access to a new investment network, thanks to the launch of the Cornwall Angel Network. The network connects start-up and early-stage businesses with angel investors, providing a significant opportunity for growth across the county.

Falmouth University to Host the Network

Falmouth University has been named the home of the Cornwall Angel Network, with the venture studio and business incubator Launchpad Futures hosting the new programme. The university, which has a decade of experience in incubating businesses, is set to play a key role in supporting the network’s development.

The network aims to foster a more diverse investment community in Cornwall by encouraging local angel investors to back growing businesses. One of its primary goals is to attract more women investors and support female founders, helping to address the underrepresentation of women in the business world.

Supporting Cornwall’s Growing Businesses

The Cornwall Angel Network is designed to help businesses grow, innovate, and create jobs. Angel investors, typically investing between £5,000 and £500,000, offer not only capital but also a wealth of business expertise and industry connections. This kind of investment is crucial for start-ups and early-stage businesses, which often require mentoring and support to scale successfully.

Business Finance Week and Launch Event

The network’s launch coincided with Business Finance Week, organised by the British Business Bank. The event, held at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, attracted over 100 guests and included a competitive pitch session where four local companies—Akumen, Good With, Amutri, and Output Industries—presented their ideas to a panel of investors. Amutri won the pitch competition, securing a bottle of champagne, and hopes for real investment in the near future.

Stephen Welton CBE, Chair of the British Business Bank, was the keynote speaker at the launch. He emphasised the importance of angel investors in Cornwall’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, noting that they provide invaluable expertise and mentoring, alongside financial support.

Stephen also highlighted the British Business Bank’s £200 million South West Investment Fund, which can co-invest alongside business angels, offering even more opportunities for investment in the region.

A Collaborative Effort

Falmouth University’s Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, Professor Emma Hunt, expressed excitement about the role the university will play in supporting the new network. She noted the importance of fostering more women founders and investors in Cornwall, while also ensuring that the network is an inclusive space where local businesses can thrive.

Cornwall Chamber of Commerce Chair, Laura Whyte, also welcomed the launch of the Cornwall Angel Network. She praised the initiative as a fantastic opportunity for local businesses, noting the potential for the network to bring not just funding but also expertise and mentorship.

How to Get Involved

For businesses and angel investors interested in learning more about the Cornwall Angel Network, visit the website here. The network represents a valuable opportunity for Cornwall’s growing businesses to access the support they need to succeed.

The South West Investment Fund, operated by the British Business Bank, provides further investment opportunities, offering a mix of debt and equity funding to support smaller businesses across the region. More information on the fund can be found here.

This new network is expected to have a significant impact on Cornwall’s business landscape, driving growth and innovation across the county.

Photo: (L-R) Stephen Welton, Chair of the British Business Bank, Michael Calver, Founder of Amutri (winning pitch on the day), and Laura Whyte, Chair of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce