Secret Diary of an angel investor: 15 years investing with Simon Thorpe
Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes in the world of angel investing? Join us for an unfiltered virtual fireside chat with Simon Thorpe, one of the UK’s most respected and experienced angel investors, as he opens up his “Secret Diary of an Angel Investor.”
With over 50+ startup investments, 12 successful exits, and a career that’s spanned everything from fintech to robotics, Simon will share what 15 years in the game has really taught him — the highs, the heartbreaks, and the moments that make it all worthwhile.
Expect candid insights on:
💡 What makes a startup truly investable
📉 The biggest mistakes angels make (and how to avoid them)
🚀 How to spot breakout potential early
🤝 The art of backing founders, not just businesses
💬 His advice to new and aspiring angel investors
About Simon Thorpe:
Simon is an ex-Chair of Cambridge Angels, a Non-Executive Director at Albion VC’s Tech & General VCT, and Chair of the Investment Committee at Salica Investments (venture debt). He also serves on several boards, including Inngot, UB.io, and the University of Manchester Innovation Factory, helping commercialise university spinouts.
A Manchester University alumnus and former UK Angel Investor of the Year (2016/2017), Simon is known for his deep commitment to the digital economy and women in business, with a third of his portfolio led by female founders.
With a background as a Chartered Accountant and 25 years in City finance — covering equity research, sales, and capital markets — Simon brings a rare blend of analytical rigour and founder empathy to his investing approach.
Come ready to learn, laugh, and get a rare inside look into how one of the UK’s top angels thinks, decides, and supports founders from the first cheque to the exit.