Brighton based Sorcha Bridge showcasing unique design skills at the event.

Creative small enterprises from Brighton and across the SE have been pitching for private equity funding and support to accelerate growth. The pitch event was organised by Create South East business support programme and was attended by enterprise investors and members of the UK Business Angels Association “UKBAA”. The event brought together entrepreneurs in technology, digital design, health and education services. These early stage businesses seek professional advisory support and seed funding from £60,000 to £1 million.

Market research statistics from Beauhurst show nearly £2 Billion small enterprise equity investments in 2024, with 1600 early stage companies securing seed round equity funding in 2025. Key growth sectors are health technology, green tech sustainability and AI for process improvement. Mental health products and services have also grown over 30% for psychotherapy and counselling. However Companies House reports also show 768,000 companies closed in 2025, 80,000 more than in 2024, and £1200 had raised external financing for over £4 billion.

Brighton based Clive Bonny from Strategic Management Partners attended the event offering advice on intellectual property protection and social value accreditation. Clive, previously voted Entrepreneur of the Year by Sussex Chamber of Commerce also offered his experience as an investor and long term UKBAA member. Clive says “whilst equity funding volumes remain high so does risk in the current economic climate. More companies need to ensure due diligence is conducted in advance of pitching for funds. Investors want to see intellectual property protection to protect market share, ESG credentials to win public tenders, and background checks on management teams.”