GC Angels

Since launching in 2015, GC Angels has swiftly become one of the North West's most active early-stage investors, filling a crucial gap in the UK’s fragmented regional funding landscape. With a strategic mandate to channel seed and pre-seed capital towards ambitious businesses outside London’s gravitational pull, GC Angels leverages a unique model combining public resources with a robust private investor network of over 400 angels and institutional partners.

At its helm are Jessica Jackson and Marc Shirman, who collectively steer an investment strategy distinguished by its strong ethical undercurrent and regional focus. Jackson has shaped GC Angels’ inclusive ethos since its inception, significantly increasing the representation of women-led startups in its portfolio—a remarkable 40%, well above industry norms. Shirman, a recent arrival with over two decades in venture finance, reinforces the fund's commercial rigor and market connectivity.

GC Angels positions itself firmly at the early stage, typically writing cheques from £25,000 up to £2 million. Its co-investment model means GC rarely invests alone; instead, it rallies other private angels and VC funds around compelling startup ideas, often serving as a catalytic anchor investor that signals confidence to the wider market.

Their portfolio reflects a broad innovation remit. Notable Manchester-based startups include Xploro, a healthtech venture using AI and AR to demystify pediatric medical treatment, and Culture Shift, a platform tackling workplace harassment, now adopted by dozens of UK universities. Cybersecurity training platform CAPSLOCK and fintech innovator Collctiv also highlight GC Angels' eclectic, tech-forward approach.

Founders seeking GC Angels' backing should be prepared for rigorous scrutiny around innovation, scalability, and tangible traction—but perhaps even more importantly, they'll need to show a clear resonance with GC Angels’ wider mission: investing in the “future economy,” emphasizing meaningful social and environmental impacts. Companies addressing real-world challenges through novel tech or disruptive business models will find particular alignment here.

Portfolio founders frequently speak of GC Angels’ hands-on style—active, engaged, yet founder-friendly. “When the Covid-19 pandemic threatened our funding round in March 2020, Jess and the GC Angels' team's enthusiasm in securing new investors to complete the round was pivotal,” notes Dom Raban, CEO of Xploro. Beyond investment, portfolio businesses tap into extensive Growth Company resources, from talent recruitment to export advice, which amplifies the practical impact of GC Angels' investment.

Ultimately, GC Angels offers founders something distinctive in the UK's crowded investment scene: early capital combined with regional advocacy, deep ecosystem connections, and a willingness to champion diverse entrepreneurs. For founders based outside London, especially those seeking more than mere financial backing, GC Angels has become a frequent first call.