Early-stage investment vehicle and angel network the British Design Fund (BDF) has secured a £5m commitment from The British Business Bank through its Regional Angels Programme.
Managed by Sapphire Capital Partners, BDF was launched to support UK-based startups with a focus on the design and manufacturing of physical products.
The fund has been supported by the Regional Angels Programme, which was launched in 2019 to address regional imbalances in access to early-stage equity finance.
“We want the UK to be the best place to startup and scaleup. Half of new jobs in this country are created by scaleups, and our tech, health and manufacturing sectors are second to none,” said Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
“This commitment by the British Business Bank will support even more entrepreneurs to take the leap and we have increased incentives at the Budget giving companies the talent and capital to grow. Our message is clear – if you invest here, Britain will back you.”
Sectors targeted by the BDF include health, sustainability and assistive technology. Among its portfolio of startups is Koalaa, a designer and developer of prosthetic limbs.
“The UK has an abundance of world-class talent in advanced engineering and manufacturing and we’re delighted to partner with BDF to invest in these early-stage opportunities right across the country,” said Mark Barry, senior investment director at British Business Bank.
Damon Bonser, chief executive of BDF Advisors added: “We meet founders every day who are addressing fundamental problems in the world through innovative manufacturing and engineering technologies.
“This commitment enables the British Design Fund to continue its work with more founders and to help founders progress their ideas into viable early-stage businesses.”
