SP Ventures

Sussex Place Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm based in London, United Kingdom, with a strong association with the London Business School. The firm focuses its investments on entrepreneurs building enterprise software and businesses with robust patent-protectable deep technology. They are committed to identifying and nurturing high-potential startups that have the potential to shape the future of technology and drive significant market impact, leveraging the extensive global network of the London Business School to provide strategic guidance and mentorship.

Founded in 1998, Sussex Place Ventures has established itself as an independently managed venture capital company. The firm's investment strategy is characterized by a data-driven approach, identifying thematic opportunities that enhance portfolio growth. They typically invest up to £1 million per company in early-stage rounds, specifically targeting Seed and Series A investments.

The firm's diverse portfolio includes companies such as Sharedo, which provides adaptive case and matter management systems to the legal industry; FA-Bio, focused on accelerating the manufacturing of bio-fertilisers and bio-insecticides through soil health analysis; Entia, a health-tech company pioneering blood tests away from central labs; and Phase Focus, offering high-resolution imaging instruments. Notable exits from their portfolio include 3D Repo, Data Tiger, Kimble, and Server Density, showcasing their ability to support companies through successful growth and acquisition.

The investing team at Sussex Place Ventures comprises experienced professionals dedicated to supporting their portfolio companies. Key team members include Managing Partners Richard Gourlay and Barnaby Terry, Operating Partner John Brimacombe, and Investment Director Ivan Shyr. Richard Gourlay, who has been an MD at the firm since 2007, brings extensive experience in managing venture capital funds and investing in patent-protectable technology businesses. The team's collective expertise and operator-first style ensure alignment with startup founders, fostering long-term partnerships and sustainable value creation.