The Enterprise Capital Funds programme
The Enterprise Capital Funds (ECF) programme addresses the "equity gap" by increasing the availability of early-stage equity finance to high potential UK companies.
Key facts
- Funding amount
- Varies by fund, total budget £1bn
- Deadline
- Rolling – no fixed deadline
- Region
- UK-wide
- Business type
- Innovative businesses & R&D-led teams
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Plain English summary
The Enterprise Capital Funds (ECF) programme aims to bridge the "equity gap" for UK small businesses with high growth potential. It increases the availability of early-stage equity finance by supporting venture capital funds that invest in these businesses. The programme also helps entrepreneurial fund managers to channel finance and mentoring to SMEs.
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Who this is best for
- Innovative businesses & R&D-led teams
- Organisations based in UK-wide
- Projects aligned with startup funding
- Teams seeking funding around Varies by fund, total budget £1bn
Who should not apply
- Individuals applying in a personal capacity (unless explicitly permitted)
- Applicants who cannot meet the official eligibility criteria below
Eligibility checklist
Tick what applies to your organisation before applying.
- Primarily targets venture capital funds that invest in early-stage, high potential UK small businesses.
- Small businesses cannot directly apply to this fund, but are the ultimate beneficiaries.
Official source
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