Channel 4 today announced it has invested in Crowdcube, the global market leader in equity crowdfunding. This follows Crowdcube’s record-breaking commercial performance in 2018, which includes rising revenues due to increased demand from businesses and investors both in the UK and overseas.

The round was led by Draper Esprit, one of Europe’s leading venture capital firms, with Balderton Capital also participating. The public will have the opportunity to invest alongside Draper Esprit, Channel 4 and Balderton Capital through a crowdfunding campaign, which will publicly launch on 14 November and will supplement the institutional investment. 

Darren Westlake, CEO and co-founder of Crowdcube, said: "We've transformed equity finance and funded more businesses than anyone else in the UK to become a preferred choice for British entrepreneurs. This latest investment, from two highly-regarded VC investors who are significantly increasing their stakes in Crowdcube and a famously forward-thinking media company, is fantastic proof of our progress and potential. It will enable us to accelerate our journey to profitability and expand faster in the UK and overseas, so we can help more innovative and ambitious businesses from across the globe grow, expand and make a difference to the world."

Jonathan Allan, Channel 4’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Crowdcube is the perfect fit for Channel 4’s Commercial Growth Fund investment. We both share a desire to support emerging talent and disrupt the status quo. This innovative business is powering the next generation of brilliant entrepreneurs all across the country and energising the investors who want to back them.”