The British Business Bank is putting £32 million into UK angel syndicates that back early-stage startups in gaming, tech, and science. The money comes in two chunks: £7 million committed last year and a fresh £25 million pledge announced this week. Early-stage venture firm Haatch is managing the program, which lets the bank co-invest alongside angel groups targeting high-potential companies.
One of the syndicates getting support is The Games Angels, a group of games industry veterans who've previously funded studios like Flick Games, Landmark Games, AudioMob, Immutable, Brainspark Games, and Payload Studios. They've also backed JECO, a toolkit that helps developers cut production costs.
Use code TRYHARD33 at checkout to redeem this offer before code expires again.
Get 33% Off GAMES+ Subscription
Backing diverse founders and multiple sectors
The program isn't just about games. Other syndicates in the mix include HERmesa, a 270-member community investing in women-led tech startups, CircleRock Capital, which invests across sectors, Sie Ventures, an early-stage backer, and 2050 Capital, which focuses on tech and science companies.
Since May 2025, the platform has funded 13 companies across these sectors. The model is built around investor collaboration — pooling resources to reach startups that might otherwise struggle to secure capital.
Fred Soneya, co-founder and general partner at Haatch, said the partnership shows how to get funding to high-potential startups while supporting a wider range of founders. Mark Barry, senior investment director at the British Business Bank, said the platform has already made multiple investments and plans to expand by working with more angel syndicates across the UK.
What this means for UK game studios
For gaming, the inclusion of The Games Angels matters. Early-stage game development is expensive and risky, and this kind of funding can help studios get projects off the ground, optimize how they work, and build toward international markets. The bank's backing gives angel investors more firepower to support developers who might not yet be ready for larger VC rounds.
Make sure to check out our articles about top games to play in 2026:
Best Nintendo Switch Games for 2026
Best First-Person Shooters for 2026
Best PlayStation Indie Games for 2026
Best Multiplayer Games for 2026
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
Top Game Releases for January 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the British Business Bank doing with this program?
The bank is co-investing with UK angel syndicates through a partnership with Haatch. The goal is to fund early-stage startups in gaming, tech, science, and other sectors.
How much money is involved?
The program has committed £32 million total: £7 million last year and £25 million in the latest round.
Which angel syndicates are getting support?
The list includes The Games Angels, HERmesa, CircleRock Capital, Sie Ventures, and 2050 Capital, among others.
What kinds of startups are being funded?
Gaming, tech, and science companies are the main focus, but sector-agnostic syndicates mean the program is open to a range of industries.
What has the funding achieved so far?
Since May 2025, 13 companies have received investment. The funding has helped game developers optimize production, supported women-led tech startups, and backed early-stage innovation across multiple sectors.
How can startups access this funding?
Startups working with the supported angel syndicates can gain access to early-stage capital, mentorship, and strategic partnerships to grow their business in the UK and internationally.
