Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS)

EIS is one of four HMRC-administered venture capital schemes. Companies apply to HMRC for EIS eligibility; individual investors then receive tax reliefs when they buy qualifying new shares. Company limits (post-April 2026 update): up to £10M raised in any 12-month period (combining EIS, VCT, SEIS, SITR and other risk-finance state aid), and up to £24M lifetime. Knowledge-Intensive Companies (KICs) can raise up to £12M annually. Northern Ireland specified companies (goods/wholesale electricity) are capped at £5M/year and £12M lifetime under Windsor Framework rules. Eligibility gates: permanent UK establishment; not listed on recognised stock exchange; fewer than 250 FTE employees at share issue; gross assets ≤£30M before issue (≤£35M after); within 7 years of first commercial sale (10 years for KICs); carrying on a qualifying trade; meets 'risk to capital' condition. Process: optional Advance Assurance → issue shares → after 4 months qualifying activity submit Compliance Statement (form EIS1) → HMRC issues EIS3 compliance certificates to investors → investors claim relief on personal tax return. Scheme rules must be followed for at least 3 years post-investment.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.