Equity crowdfunding in the UK has exploded. According to Nesta, equity-based crowdfunding grew by more than 600% between 2012–13, from just under £4m to over £28m.
A new generation of investors is willing to get behind Britain's great startups and support the brightest and best entrepreneurs in the hope that they will be the next Facebook, Amazon or Google. For those early-stage businesses harbouring hopes of a future market listing, crowdfunding offers the opportunity to raise finance, grow sustainably and gain valuable experience of working with shareholders which will enable a smoother, more successful, transition to IPO in the long-term.
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