Dorset Business Angels (DBA) hosted its final pitch event of the year this Monday at the Carlton Hotel in Bournemouth.

Five innovative startups – two of them local to Dorset – together attracted a total of 22 expressions of interest from the more than 30 investors assembled on the day.

Uniquely, all five caught the interest of at least two investors each.

“It’s wonderful to see DBA continuing to grow and thrive,” said chair Don McQueen.

“The candid post-pitch discussions among our members are a testament to the strengthening relationships and trust within our investor network.

“This open dialogue is key to making the most informed decisions.”

First was a pitch from the “world’s first fully online tailormade travel platform”, an AI solution to address a £6 billion market where 89 per cent of customers find current options unsuitable.

The Dorset-based business sought £250,000 pre-seed funding for 12.5 per cent equity – a proposition which garnered four expressions of interest from investors.

Next up was an organic chocolate and eco-toy company aiming to meet growing demand for allergen-free, sustainable treats.

The business, which has sold over two million units, asked for between £500,000 and £1 million for 4.5 to nine per cent equity, earning two expressions of interest.

Then came an umbrella startup with an innovative handle-integrated design, which is aiming to cut down on the billion umbrellas sent to landfill every year.

Having closed out an £80,000 raise on Kickstarter, the business sought another £500,000 at a £3 million valuation, attracting four expressions of interest.

The penultimate pitch was given by a recruitment platform for the aviation and maritime sectors aiming to revolutionise crew staffing.

Founded by a former butler and with a strong advisory board the startup garnered five expressions of interest for its £500,000 raise.

Finally, a Dorset-based shared ownership platform with tech which smooths out transactions between homebuyers, lenders, and investors pitched its £5 million pre-seed raise for 50 per cent equity.

Projecting a £100 million valuation in five years, the company is in advanced negotiations with a housing association client and received five expressions of interest at the DBA event.

Peter Eales, managing director of DBA, said: “We worked hard to bring the very best pitches to our investor members.

“The openness and engagement we saw during the Q&A really underscores the value our network provides.

“It’s not just about the presentation, but the deeper dialogues that follow.”

Sponsored by TC Group, Ellis Jones Solicitors, Investec Wealth & Investment UK and The FSE Group, DBA is inviting investors to secure places for its next pitch event on 3 February 2025.

• To book, visit dorsetbusinessangels.co.uk/events