Heaven-sent investors bring expertise, commitment and money to the table

The introduction of a new angel investor tax relief is designed to stimulate investment in early-stage, innovative SMEs. Barry McCall reports

For business owners seeking to access angel finance, the first step is to ensure your company qualifies for the scheme.

One source of funding for start-up and growth-phase companies that has been growing in importance in recent years is angel investment. 

Business angels are typically entrepreneurs who invest capital in early-stage businesses in return for a minority stake. But they bring a lot more than money, they also bring their time, skills, contacts and business knowledge to bear to support the companies on their growth paths.