The not-for-profit network is now concentrating on matching companies raising up to £500,000 in equity with investors who are keen to play an active role in the next phase of their growth.
The shift reflects a renewed emphasis on quality opportunities, stronger relationships and deeper engagement between founders and funders in the Midlands.
Minerva’s approach is already gaining traction, with a strong pipeline of businesses already choosing to raise exclusively through the network. For investors, this offers early access to opportunities where capital is paired with hands-on support from Minerva, drawing on experience, insight and professional networks alongside funding.
Luke Pulford, Head of Minerva Business Angels, said the evolution reflects what both founders and investors are looking for in the current market.
“There is a real appetite for closer collaboration on both sides,” he said.
“Founders want investors who understand the journey they are on, and investors want to feel genuinely connected to the businesses they back. Our renewed focus brings those two things together in a way that feels more purposeful and more impactful. The feedback from our community has been fantastic.”
The new direction was underlined at a recent pitching event, which brought together long-standing members, new investors and partners from across the Midlands. Several businesses who already have strong commercial traction presented to the network, there was interest in all three and conversations with investors are progressing.
The gathering also marked 30 years since Minerva was founded, a milestone that was acknowledged while keeping the emphasis firmly on what comes next. Over that period, the network has supported hundreds of businesses to raise millions of equity finance, helping to build a track record that continues to attract both founders and investors. The network has had many exits over that time that have delivered high multiple returns for the investors in those businesses, including several in the last few years.
Among those speaking was David Mellor, a long-standing Minerva investor, who reflected on what has kept him engaged with angel investing over time.
He said: “For me, it has always been about more than the financial mechanics. There is something incredibly rewarding about being part of a company’s growth story, seeing founders navigate challenges and celebrating the wins along the way.
“The incentives and tax breaks matter, of course, but the real value comes from feeling involved in building something meaningful.”
The event also heard from Matt Adams of Ideas Lab, one of Minerva’s successful exits, who shared his journey building We Are Group and the returns delivered to early backers. His story served as a reminder of what can happen when the right businesses and investors are brought together at the right time.
Luke added: “With our investor base continuing to grow and interest from businesses showing no sign of slowing, Minerva is looking ahead with confidence.
“The network remains committed to working closely with partners across the region while strengthening its role as a first port of call for angel investment in the Midlands.”
“We have monthly pitch events across region, a new online deal platform and some very exciting businesses raising exclusively through Minerva. I am really excited about what 2026 will bring for the network and our members.”
