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Business Development Scaleup International Expansion Delegate
Location: Stage 4 - Thu, 2 Jul 2026 · 11:15 – 11:45 (Europe/London) (30 minutes)

Angels, VCs and the Funding Fit

What is it about?

Not all investments are the same, and not every business is right for every investor. This practical discussion brings together both angel investors and venture capital funds to explore the differences in how they assess opportunities, make investment decisions and support founders after they invest. You'll gain a clearer understanding of what each type of investor is really looking for, when they are the right fit for your business, and how funding expectations change as a company grows.

Who should attend?

  • Founders planning to raise investment in the next 12–24 months
  • Businesses deciding whether to approach angels or VCs
  • Scale-ups preparing for larger funding rounds
  • University spin-outs and innovation-led businesses
  • Advisors supporting high-growth companies

Why attend?

Choosing the wrong type of investor can waste months of valuable time. This session will help you understand where your business fits, what different investors expect to see, how investment criteria differ, and how to build a funding strategy that matches your stage, ambition and growth plans. You'll leave with a much clearer view of who you should be talking to—and just as importantly, who you shouldn't.

Speakers
Ashley Tate
Ashley Tate
Co-Founder at Sheffield Angels

Ashley is serial entrepreneur and investor. He was Co-Founder and former CEO of Mina, a pioneering platform simplifying electric vehicle (EV) charging for fleets and businesses, which was sold to Corpay in 2023. Prior to Mina he founded Split the Bills, a utility management platform for shared households, and Fit Property, a residential and student lettings agency, which were both sold 2020. He currently serves as Co-Chair of Sheffield…

Dean Hartley
Dean Hartley
Investor & Advisor at Chevet Technology

Former founder, operator and CTO. Following a high value exit in 2018, I now advise and invest in start-up and early stage ventures. I also hold roles as an NED and entrepreneur in residence.

Sam Cooper-Gray
Sam Cooper-Gray
Chair, The Gender Index and Founder of The Women are Good Business Campaign at The Wisdom Studio Ltd

Sam Cooper-Gray is a strategist, storyteller, podcaster and fierce advocate for female-led business. As founder of The Wisdom Studio , she helps purpose-driven SMEs grow with clarity, impact, and intention—drawing on 25+ years in global finance, including her role as HSBC's Global Head of SME Strategy. She is the creator and driving force behind Women Are Good Business a national campaign that highlights and amplifies the economic…