Britain’s Got Startups
isn’t just another pitch competition.
Across the UK, 53% of high-growth companies are based
outside of London, yet they receive just under 39% of total
equity investment.
The maths isn’t maths-ing.
We want to create a platform to build businesses from where
you are based and we will bring investors and startup
ecosystem stakeholders to you.
But why apply?
Our VC Series Partner, Two Magnolias, will be looking to invest a minimum of £200,000 into a founder who reaches the
Best of Britain Finale.*
We don’t charge fees. For the 2026 series, there are no success fees if you are to raise investment via Britain’s Got Startups.**
We bring investors to you; every showcase event we hold, we’ll aim to have 15-20 investors within the audience.
*Subject to due diligence and within the mandate of Two Magnolias VC
**We have Investor Relations Partners, carefully chosen for their experience and track record, who will charge fees if you wish to engage them.
What does the
process look like?
Application
After you apply to Britain’s Got Startups, your application will be filtered by investors and startup experts.
Showcase
If you are chosen to pitch at a Showcase, you are representing your Nation or Region. You will have the opportunity to present the investment opportunity to a room full of investors, industry experts and national stakeholders for the startup ecosystem.
Semi-Final
If you have been chosen to progress to the Semi-Final, you will pitch virtually to 4-5 active investors who will choose the best businesses to progress to the Showcase event.
Best of Britain
If you are one of the best businesses at your Showcase, you’ll be invited to pitch at the Best of Britain Finale, which will focus on international investors.
Application Deadlines
Scotland & North England - 26th January 2026
Wales, Midlands & East England - 17 February 2026
South West & South East - 17 March 2026
Why should I get involved as a start-up or scale-up business?
Everything you need to know.
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If you pitch at a semi-final event, you will receive insightful feedback on your investment deck from the judging panel.
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If you make it through to a Showcase or the Best of Britain Finale, you will receive media content from the event.
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We aim for the audience at our Regional Finals to consist of 60% investors including angels, family offices, venture capital and venture debt firms.
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We hope our events are a chance for you to make long-lasting connections with other founders and like-minded individuals.
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There are no fees whatsoever for founders, we want to help businesses outside of London scale and we found fees created an additional hurdle.
Applications are now open*
Apply now!
*Please note that we don’t accept applications from London-based businesses.