Growth Company Angels
Growth Company Angels

Venture Forward is a new Innovate UK initiative to support underrepresented founders who are seeking equity investment. As one of the most prolific early-stage investors in the North of England - GC Angels will deliver the programme over 8 weeks from Oct - Dec 2025.

About the programme

The programme will provide you with the tools and know-how to optimise your next round of funding. You will receive:

  • Over 8 weeks, workshops covering key areas of the fundraising process, including funding options, strategy, financial modelling, valuations, term sheets and building out a robust fundraising campaign
  • Support to dive deep into your individual value and investor propositions
  • Fundraising templates
  • Opportunities to meet investors from across the UK
  • Chance to secure upto £150k in equity investment from GC Angels
  • Click on the application link
  • Complete ALL questions
  • Choose the Manchester Program
  • Attach your pitch deck (we cannot consider applications without this)
  • Your pitch deck should be no more than 10 slides in pdf format (excluding intro slide). Any deck with more than 10 slides will not be considered and your application will be void
  • Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis

Deadline: 31st Aug 2025

Apply Now

Join our online session to learn more about the programme, who it's for, and how to apply.

  • Date: Mon 21st July
  • Time: 1-2pm UK Time
  • Register Here: Closed

If you missed the webinar, click here to see recording.

Download Webinar Slide Deck

Stage 1: Within 14 days (approx) - Successful applicants will receive an invitation to present their pitch (virtually or in-person) to us.

Stage 2: Within 28 days (approx) - Successful applicants will be notified in writing and given full details for the programme.

Unsuccessful applicants at any stage of the process will receive feedback and referral to other investment readiness support channels.

Applications for Cohort 1 are now live

We are looking for motivated Northern founders who are actively raising investment to help scale their business. If that is you - then click below to start your journey!

🗓️ Cohort 1: October–December 2025
📍 Location:
Central Manchester
👥 Cohort size:
20–30 founders

Places will be awarded on a first-come first-served basis

Applications Close: 31st Aug 2025

Apply Now

Venture Forward - Partners