UK Future Technologies Fund backs SEP IV to support high technology businesses11 December 2011 The UK Future Technologies Fund (UK FTF) has committed to SEP IV, the latest fund managed by Scottish Equity Partners LLP (SEP), continuing the support of the European Investment Fund which is also an investor in SEP’s previous funds. This puts SEP IV in a strong position to continue its investment strategy of financing high-growth, high-tech businesses. SEP’s investment strategy is a perfect fit with UK FTF’s stage and sector target as it specifically targets later stage (growing) UK companies that are developing technology and products in information technology, energy and healthcare. SEP’s deep experience in these sectors over the past 20 years makes it well placed to start investing directly into around 20 portfolio companies in the coming months, with a view to investing between £5-20 million in each company. SEP IV is UK FTF’s fifth investment from its £200 million fund, bringing total commitments so far to around £65m. UK FTF’s investment period for commitments to new funds runs until February 2014. Further information About UK FTF The UK Future Technologies Fund, managed by EIF, is one of two funds of funds which together make up the UK Innovation Investment Fund (UKIIF). Backed by a £100 million investment from the UK Government, UK FTF doubled its investment capacity to £200 million with resources committed from the European Investment Fund. The fund invests with venture capital managers targeting a range of technologies in fields such as life sciences, digital technology, and advanced manufacturing. Website: www.eif.org/what_we_do/resources/UK_FTF/index.htm About the European Investment Fund EIF's central mission is to support Europe's small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) by helping them to access finance. EIF designs and develops venture capital and guarantees instruments which specifically target this market segment. In this role, EIF fosters EU objectives in support of innovation, research and development, entrepreneurship, growth, and employment. The EIF total net commitments to private equity funds amounted to over EUR 5.4bn at end 2010. With investments in over 300 funds, the EIF is a leading player in European venture due to the scale and the scope of its investments, especially in high-tech and early-stage segments. The EIF commitment in guarantees totalled over EUR 14.7bn in close to 160 operations at end 2010, positioning it as a major European SME guarantees actor and a leading micro-finance guarantor. Website: www.eif.org
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