Why apply to Seedcamp?

Editor's Note:

Seedcamp is one of the go-to VC funds for pre-seed rounds. Between their extensive network and widely respected reputation among VC investors, Seedcamp has built a strong investment program early founders flock to.

Here’s what the founders had to say about why they got in touch…

  1. They’re known as one of the top pre-seed venture capital funds. 
  2. Exceptional network and reputation
  3. Seedcamp recognizes that backing the right founders significantly increases the chances of success.
  4. Recommended by venture capitalists.

Their prominence in the industry made them a compelling choice for us.

Thom Groot, Co-founder @ The Electric Car Scheme

How did you first contact Seedcamp?

Editor's Note:

There are multiple ways to get in touch with Seedcamp, whether by warm intro from an investor, direct outreach from Seedcamp or an online application. From there, the vetting process involves multiple interviews for shortlisted startups.

 Here’s what the founders had to say about contacting Seedcamp…

  1. A previous investor warmly introduced one founder, and then Seedcamp contacted them.
  2. Another reached out to them directly, either through LinkedIn or email.
  3.  You fill out an online form, and then there are interviews for those shortlisted.
  4. The venture process typically involves initial and subsequent follow-up calls if there’s interest.

How much funding can you expect from Seedcamp?

Editor's Note:

Seedcamp’s initial investment varies quite a bit. Standard investment runs around £200,000-700,000 for a Seedcamp-led round or £3.5 million for exceptional cases. However, remember that Seedcamp’s equity target is generally non-negotiable and sits at around 80%.

 Here’s what founders had to say about how much funding they received…

  1. Typically, Seedcamp would invest £200,000 to 700,000 when they led a round
  2. Another founder managed to secure an impressive £3.5 million

How long and how intensive was closing the round with Seedcamp?

Editor's Note:

Seedcamp’s investment rounds are efficient and fairly quick. One founder had a 4 week process and had the funds in the bank 6-8 weeks later. While the process is well-streamlined, it will take resources you might usually dedicate to running your business.

 Here’s what the founders had to say…

  1. Seedcamp’s process is quite efficient and requires relatively less effort than some experience in the seed and subsequent investment rounds.
  2. One founder found the process took them four weeks, and within a month and a half to two months, they had the funds in the bank.
  3. Seedcamp’s process is streamlined compared to other VCs but can take some resources that you may otherwise dedicate to running your business.

What sort of support does Seedcamp provide beyond funding?

Editor's Note:

Seedcamp isn’t just about funding. First, the program’s extensive network gives founders a pool of experts and mentors to get in touch with. Seedcamp also facilitates various meetings for founders to establish a solid base and network within the tech community.

 Here’s what the founders had to say about what they got beyond funding…

  1. They have an extensive network, so if founders need expertise in a specific area, like marketing, sales, or operations, they could connect founders to the right people. 
  2. One founder remarked Seedcamp facilitated access to experienced operators who had already built successful businesses. 
  3. They offer a supportive community, events, and invaluable mentoring. 
  4. Seecamp facilitates numerous meetings within the tech community, aiming to quickly build your network and knowledge base.

  These connections were invaluable, especially in terms of speaking with the right venture capitalists and gaining diverse perspectives on our business and its focus areas.

 Olivier Plantet, CEO and Co-founder @ Fleksy

How would you describe your relationship with Seedcamp post-funding?

Editor's Note:

As a pre-seed fund, Seedcamp’s involvement is naturally highest in the early rounds and diminishes over time. However, the program can still help startups with brand building and introductions, even down the road.

Here’s what the founders had to say about Seedcamp ongoing support…

  1. Seedcamp can provide ongoing help with brand development
  2.  It’s important to note that as the company grows into series A, B, and C funding rounds, Seedcamp’s involvement naturally diminishes.
  3. One founder recalls that Even though they are not as closely intertwined as we were initially, they maintain a unique relationship where Seedcamp makes introductions.

Final advice to consider before joining SeedCamp?

Editor's Note:

Ultimately, preparation is key before applying to Seedcamp. Ensure you have a well-thought out idea that aligns with Seedcamp’s investment thesis and sustainable growth. If you nail those elements, it’s all simply down to articulating your business’s mission.

Here’s what the founders advised about SeedCamp’s program…

  1.  Be crystal clear about your company’s mission, the strengths of your team, the problem you’re addressing, and why it matters. Articulate your business’s purpose and goals with conviction.
  2.  Sustainable, reasonable growth is key, where you understand and can effectively manage your KPIs.
  3. Make sure your proposal aligns with Seedcamp’s investment thesis. Understand what they are looking for in a startup. 
  4. It’s not about quickly thinking up an idea over the weekend and sending it their way; you need to be prepared to put in more effort than that.