Cambridge Angels

Cambridge Angels may wear the label of a typical UK-based angel investor group, but beneath the unassuming name lies a quietly influential force in Britain’s startup ecosystem. Founded in 2001 by entrepreneurs Robert Sansom and David Cleevely, this group has spent more than two decades shaping some of the UK’s most successful early-stage businesses.

Operating from the heart of Cambridge’s celebrated Science Park, the Angels harness the city’s legacy of innovation, especially its reputation in tech, deep-tech, and life sciences. The group is intentionally small, capped at around 60 members, the majority of whom have not only invested but have also built—and sold—their own successful ventures. Names like Sherry Coutu and Andy Richards underscore a membership roster that reads like a who’s-who of UK entrepreneurial talent.

The real distinction, founders say, lies in Cambridge Angels’ unwavering commitment to delivering ‘smart capital’—money infused not only with expertise but with genuine mentorship and network-building. Unlike many larger institutions, Cambridge Angels charge no fees to founders. Their investment sweet spot, typically ranging from £150k to £1.5m, demonstrates a clear focus on seed and early-stage startups, frequently becoming long-term partners by participating in multiple follow-on rounds.

This patient, collaborative approach has shaped an impressive portfolio. Founders looking at Cambridge Angels’ track record see names they know: Evi Technologies, whose technology was acquired by Amazon to power Alexa; Spectral Edge, snapped up by Apple; and Frontier Developments, creators of the hit game Elite, now publicly listed. Recent years have brought more headline-grabbing successes, with Meta acquiring audio AI innovator Audio Analytic and Visa buying fraud-prevention leader Featurespace—both nurtured early on by Cambridge Angels.

But securing an investment from the group isn’t just about having groundbreaking technology. Cambridge Angels seek ambitious teams with a clear vision of rapid growth. Crucially, they ask how defensible the technology or IP is, looking for the elusive combination of novelty and practicality. The path to investment is structured yet refreshingly swift. Founders typically know within weeks whether the Angels’ interest is piqued, with pitch sessions held regularly in Cambridge and London.

The experience of working alongside Cambridge Angels, say entrepreneurs who’ve done it, is like joining a seasoned team of trusted advisors. Rather than standing aloof, Angels members frequently become sounding boards, mentors, even board members themselves, making strategic introductions and leveraging their own hard-earned networks. Founders repeatedly highlight how the Angels’ involvement brings not only capital but credibility—opening doors to talent, partnerships, and later-stage investors.

In short, Cambridge Angels represent more than just another source of funding. They embody the ethos of the entrepreneurial community they sprang from: practical, knowledgeable, and deeply committed.