LCR Innovation Investment Fortnight - Founder Funding Groups Pitch Practice

This event is part of the Liverpool City Region (LCR) Innovation Investment Fortnight, an annual Combined Authority-led showcase of the region’s world-leading innovation assets, partnership-driven approach, and £2bn+ investment opportunities that position the LCR at the forefront of UK place-based innovation. #LCRInnovation

Got three minutes to convince an investor?

The Founder Funding Groups Pitch Practice returns to Liverpool on Wednesday 10 June, 14:00–16:30, as part of *LCR Innovation Investment Fortnight.

*LCR Innovation Investment Fortnight is a series of events run by partners from across the region, co-ordinated by the Liverpool City Region Combine Authority, with the objective of raising the profile of LCR’s innovation ecosystem, partners and stakeholders within it, and related investment opportunities. Showcasing the LCR’s broad range of distinctive assets, capabilities and world-leading strengths, alongside the highly collaborative partnerships that drive our place-based innovation approach, which is regarded as UK-leading by Innovate UK, UKRI and others.

In 2025 more than 2000 people attended 19 individual events in 14 venues across the City Region. This included 3 Summits, the launch of 3 innovation facilities and a series of other projects and programmes profiled and showcased.

This focused session is designed for founders preparing to raise investment—whether you’re actively fundraising or getting ready for your next round. It offers a supportive but investor-focused environment to test, refine, and strengthen your pitch before real fundraising conversations.

• Deliver a 3-minute pitch followed by live Q&A (limited to 5 pitching founders)
• Receive direct, constructive feedback on your messaging, slides, and delivery
• Learn from other founders pitching in a real-time environment
• Gain practical investor-readiness experience in a confidential setting

Once selected to pitch, we will contact you via the email used on registration to request your pitch deck.

👉 Line-up and full agenda will be updated closer to the event.

AXM Venture Capital is an FCA-authorised investment firm established in 2005, with a strong track record of backing early-stage and growth businesses. The team has invested in over 100 SMEs and manages multiple regional funds focused on driving innovation and economic growth.

Through the Liverpool City Region Seed Fund (LCRSF), AXM continues to support promising ventures across the region. The fund builds on the success of the North West Fund for Digital & Creative, through which AXM invested £17.1m into 44 companies, including 19 based in the Liverpool City Region.

With deep experience in early-stage investing, AXM works closely with founders to help scale businesses and unlock long-term value.

The session will be facilitated by Rupert Wingate-Saul, Investment Director at LCR Seed Fund and experienced investor at AXM Venture Capital.

Rupert has led over 20 investments, supported portfolio companies to raise more than £65m in co-investment, and delivered several successful exits. He also runs Founder Funding Group roundtables and pitch practice sessions, creating supportive environments where founders can build confidence and improve their investor readiness.

A practical, supportive environment to refine your pitch, receive expert feedback, and connect with fellow founders—helping you step confidently into investor conversations.

This event is supported by Barclays Eagle Labs.

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Host or Publisher Rupert Wingate-Saul/FWS Advisory