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An investment firm which specialises in backing early-stage ventures has secured up to £10 million in new funding to support growing companies.

Haatch, which is based in Stamford in Lincolnshire, is led by founders Fred Soneya and Scott Weavers-Wright who have founded and exited businesses themselves and invested in more than 50 start-ups.

The new commitment of up to £10 million from British Business Investments' Regional Angels Programme will allow Haatch to invest in high-growth digital and tech-enabled businesses across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ.

Since Haatch was founded in 2013, it has invested in more than 50 early-stage digital transformation companies which are currently valued at more than £400 million.

Mr Soneya said: "We are thrilled to be working with British Business Investments and to have its support. Its commitment enhances our financial offering to our portfolio companies and recognises the critical impact that entrepreneurs have on our economic future.

"Our clear focus on digital transformation businesses has meant we have been able to capitalise on the adoption of digitisation faced by consumers and enterprises at a pace that has accelerated over the last few years."

Judith Hartley, chief executive of British Business Investments, added: "By investing alongside Haatch's funds, this commitment from British Business Investments will facilitate additional early-stage investment to smaller businesses across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ.

"The Regional Angels Programme plays a vital role in developing the early-stage funding ecosystem across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ regions and nations, bringing together patient capital, business experience and skills to support the growth of high-growth smaller businesses."