Angel Academe

Angel Academe, founded in 2014 by Sarah Turner and Simon Hopkins and based in London, stands out prominently in the UK investment landscape due to its clear mission: supporting female-founded tech startups. With more than 400 active members—most of whom are women—Angel Academe has quickly become one of the UK's leading angel networks championing gender diversity in entrepreneurship.

What truly sets Angel Academe apart is its unwavering commitment to funding startups that have at least one woman in a key founding role, holding significant equity (at least 20%). Their network isn't just about funding; it’s built on actively encouraging more women to become angel investors, creating a unique community of engaged and diversity-minded supporters.

Since its founding in 2014 by Sarah Turner and Simon Hopkins, Angel Academe has invested in over 50 innovative tech companies spanning various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include Provenance, a blockchain-powered platform enhancing retail transparency; Century Tech, an AI-driven education startup; The Dots, known widely as the "LinkedIn for creatives"; and ethical ad platform Good-Loop. The group has also achieved successful exits, including the acquisitions of fashion resale marketplace BuyMyWardrobe and fintech platform Akoni.

Angel Academe typically invests in early-stage tech startups raising seed or pre-Series A rounds, with rounds ranging from £250,000 upwards. Founders usually secure investments of around £70k–£350k from the network. Deals are done on a priced-equity basis, and startups must qualify for UK SEIS/EIS schemes. Angel Academe regularly acts as either a lead or co-investor and actively participates in follow-on investment rounds.

To secure investment, founders should clearly demonstrate that they address significant markets with innovative, technology-driven solutions, have achieved measurable traction, and possess a strong, diverse team. Angel Academe values startups with defensible intellectual property or clear differentiation and prefers business-to-business models, though high-performing consumer startups may also attract their interest.

The investment process at Angel Academe is transparent, efficient, and supportive. After an initial application, founders quickly progress to a short screening call with lead angels for immediate feedback. Promising startups then pitch at virtual investor events. The diligence process is collaborative, thorough, and founder-friendly, often cited by founders as beneficial for refining their business strategy.

As investors, Angel Academe members are notably active and supportive. They frequently offer strategic guidance, introductions to clients and potential future investors, and sometimes even join advisory boards. Founders like Pip Jamieson, CEO of The Dots, have praised the network for enriching their cap tables with experienced, supportive female investors.

Ultimately, Angel Academe represents more than just investment capital—it’s a supportive community committed to empowering female founders and championing diverse, high-growth tech ventures. For female entrepreneurs seeking aligned investors who can offer genuine value beyond funding, Angel Academe stands out as a potential partner on the startup journey.