Ready Steady Grow

What will the event cover?

This session brings the local startup ecosystem together, expanding knowledge on the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) while supporting connections through networking.

Attendees will hear from SME industry experts and a panel of investors about:

• Best practices and common pitfalls in EIS/SEIS
• Investor perspectives and insights
• Real-world startup journeys supported by EIS/SEIS investment
• Practical first steps for founders seeking investment

The event aims to provide actionable insights and opportunities to connect with peers, investors, and advisors in the startup and investment space.

Agenda

17:30 - 18:00 – Registration

18:00 - 18:05 – Welcome | Olivia Wing

18:05 - 18:15 – EIS Dos and Don’ts | Olivia Wing

18:15 - 18:35 – Under the bonnet with the investors | Huw Bishop • Sam Huxtable • Olivia Wing

18:35 - 18:45 – Journey of a Startup with S/EIS Investment

18:45 - 19:00 – First steps for founders | Harry Bell • Jessica Phillips-Harris • Olivia Wing • Basit Mohammed

19:00 - 19:05 – Closing comments from the EIS Association | Olivia Wing

19:05 - 20:30 – Networking Reception with Drinks and Canapés

Who is the event for?

This session is designed for founders, small businesses, investors, IFAs, entrepreneurs, and business advisers—anyone involved in the investment or startup ecosystem looking to expand their knowledge, learn from experts, and build valuable connections.