An early-stage investment fund managed by Mercia Ventures and part of the Midlands Engine Investment Fund that backs startups such as BlueSkeye AI and Nuvision.
The Nottingham-based eye care specialist raised the capital from investors including Mercia, Pioneer Group, and the University of Nottingham.
"We are delighted to receive further support from our existing investors. This investment round is an endorsement of our innovative new therapies for ocular care and our commitment to developing a rapid and accessible treatment for the ocular injury. The next stage of development is the scaling of our commercial and operational capabilities ahead of a planned Series A round in late 2023 or early 2024,"
The Warwickshire-based online lettings platform has raised seed follow on funding to expand its team and scale operations ahead of a Series A round.
"Our ambitious vision started back in 2008 and is gathering real momentum, supported by this investment plus key board appointments. We are excited about our future growth potential and the opportunity to disrupt the traditional high street lettings model. We aim to make renting out your property long-term as easy as filling your holiday let on Airbnb, and become the go-to choice when renting out property."
The investment was led by Blackfinch Ventures alongside Mercia to support platform upgrades and team expansion.
"With hybrid working here to stay, companies need the right technology to manage and motivate teams in different locations. StaffCircle is helping an ever-increasing number of organisations to keep their employees connected and improve productivity. We are delighted to have continued support from our existing investors. The latest funding round will help us to build momentum and take the company to the next level."
The Leicester software firm has raised a further £1.3m from the MEIF Proof of Concept and Early Stage Fund, Mercia EIS Funds and angels.
"This investment is key to the next level of growth within our business. The next 12 months are going to be very exciting, seeing us reach other markets and geographies with a product that is always innovating for the good of our customers."
The pre-seed round was backed by the MEIF Proof of Concept and Early Stage Fund alongside private investors to support team expansion and product development.
"Co-living offers a positive lifestyle choice for many people living alone or struggling to afford their own home. By making house sharing easier to manage for both landlords and tenants, COHO aims to bring it to the mainstream. The support of our investors will enable us to move forward at a much faster pace to achieve our ambition of making shared living more accessible to both property investors and tenants, and become the Airbnb of house shares."
