Checklist

Building in Britain,in order.

Most of what goes wrong early is sequencing: raising before checking eligibility, structuring the group before understanding the permanent establishment condition, approaching investors before knowing which ones are relevant.

The founder journey →International founders →

Twelve steps

  1. 01, Understand the UK opportunity

    Establish honestly whether Britain has the research, customers and capital your specific company needs, and where it does not.

  2. 02, Decide company structure

    Most investor-backed companies are UK private companies limited by shares. Group structures with an overseas parent can complicate tax-advantaged investment.

    Official sources

  3. 03, Understand immigration requirements if applicable

    If founders need to be present in the UK, identify the route early, endorsement and processing take time.

    Official sources

  4. 04, Incorporate

    Register with Companies House, then register for Corporation Tax and, where relevant, PAYE and VAT.

    Official sources

  5. 05, Understand SEIS/EIS eligibility

    Check the conditions against your company before you design the round. Get the order of share issues right.

    Official sources

  6. 06, Consider Advance Assurance

    Many UK angels expect it. It is an HMRC opinion on the information given, not a guarantee.

    Official sources

  7. 07, Prepare investment materials

    Business plan, financial forecasts, cap table, articles, and a clear statement of what the money will be spent on.

    Official sources

  8. 08, Find relevant investors

    Match on stage, sector and cheque size before geography.

  9. 09, Find research and infrastructure

    Identify the universities, Catapults and specialist facilities relevant to your technology.

    Official sources

  10. 10, Find customers and partners

    Corporate buyers, operators and public procurement routes in your sector.

  11. 11, Understand government support

    Innovate UK competitions, R&D relief and regional agencies.

    Official sources

  12. 12, Build and scale

    Growth capital, manufacturing, export and retaining ownership in Britain as the company grows.

    Official sources

This is educational orientation, not tax, legal or immigration advice, and not an HMRC determination. Eligibility depends on the full circumstances of the company, the investor and the share issue under the rules in force at the time. Always check current HMRC guidance and take professional advice.