The latest statistics on the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) reveal remarkable achievements in the investment landscape. These figures reflect the growing interest and confidence in these schemes as vehicles for fostering entrepreneurial endeavours and fueling economic growth.

Today, HMRC announced record levels of investment in the SEIS and EIS: 

• A total of nearly £30 billion has been invested in over 53,000 companies since the introduction of the schemes. The Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) witnessed record levels of investment, with 4,480 companies raising £2,305 million. This represents a 39% increase from the previous year, where 3,765 companies raised £1,662 million. In 2021-2022, EIS experienced a significant rebound post-pandemic, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, 1,755 new EIS companies raised approximately £584 million.

• London and the South East dominated EIS investments, raising £1,489 million (65% of all EIS investment) in 2021-2022. However, the South West saw the largest growth, with an 87% increase in SEIS and EIS investments compared to the previous year.
  
  
• Under the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS), 2,270 companies raised £205 million in 2021-2022, marking the highest level of funding since the scheme's inception. This represents a 16% increase from the previous year, where 2,105 companies raised £176 million. Approximately 1,815 companies raised funds under SEIS for the first time, amounting to £179 million.

• In 2021-2022, the Information and Communication sector accounted for £83 million (40% of all SEIS investment). Similarly to EIS, London and the South East led SEIS investments, raising £137 million (67% of SEIS investment) during the same period.

The latest statistics on the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) paint a promising picture for investors, entrepreneurs, and the economy as a whole. The record-breaking levels of investment, totalling nearly £30 billion across thousands of companies, underscore the continued success and popularity of these schemes. The significant increases in funding, with EIS investments rising by 39% and SEIS investments growing by 16%, highlights the resilience and attractiveness of these programs. Moreover, the geographical expansion of investments beyond traditional hubs like London and the South East demonstrates the growing opportunities for businesses across various regions. These statistics signify not only financial gains but also the creation of employment, innovation, and economic prosperity. As SEIS and EIS continue to facilitate access to capital and incentivise investment, we can anticipate a bright future for startups, investors, and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The full release by HMRC can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/enterprise-investment-scheme-seed-enterprise-investment-scheme-and-social-investment-tax-relief-may-2023/enterprise-investment-scheme-seed-enterprise-investment-scheme-and-social-investment-tax-relief-statistics-2023