Twelve “crowdfunding” firms have joined forces to create a self-regulatory trade body for the industry, which lets members of the public back start-up businesses. Members of the UK Crowdfunding Association (UKCFA) will have to comply with a code of practice to protect investors’ funds and keep...
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The UK Crowdfunding Association will provide a code of practice and operating standards for 12 founder members. Crowdfunding sees online platforms allow small firms and start-ups to raise capital from a many small investors, either by selling an equity stake, or in return for “rewards” and...
Continue Reading13 March 2013 The UK’s leading crowdfunding businesses have joined together to launch a trade body, the UK Crowdfunding Association (UKCFA), aimed at providing clarity and consumer protection and for the whole industry. Crowdfunding in the UK has experienced massive growth over recent years. Operators provide a much-needed alternative source...
Continue ReadingWant to know more about how equity crowdfunding works? This infographic from GrowthFunders will help. ...
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How can crowdfunding drive business growth when the FSA insist that investors need protecting from themselves? The City Grump urges crowdfunders to apply the law of KISS: Keep it Simple, Stupid. What was probably the first conference on crowdfunding in the UK took place last week....
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When it comes to raising finance, crowdfunding is the new kid on the block. The model allows anyone to invest in a great idea or product, spawning a new generation of so-called 'armchair investors'. Here are the top eight crowdfunding platforms making waves in the...
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Eugenie Teasley, founder of Spark+Mettle, shares her tips on crowdfunding for first timers, and reflects on the benefits (but the struggle) of building a community of people around a cause. Crowdfunding is the easy option, right? No, but it is an exciting one. Any sort of fundraising...
Continue ReadingCrowdMission is all about organisations that are out to make the world a better place. But we’re not talking about charities. We champion entrepreneurs and business owners who have the ability to make money and make a difference. We recently came across one company that is doing just...
Continue ReadingA report out this week from Ernst & Young makes for depressing reading. Based on current trends, the total lent by banks to SMEs by the end of 2012 will be the lowest annual amount since 2006. To make matters worse, the government’s efforts to get the...
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This week’s episode of BBC TV’s Dragons’ Den included a perfect example of how traditional investors often don’t understand that it is perfectly possible to grow a profitable business and also make a difference to the world around you. During the show, the co-founders of...
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