Raising your first round for an Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) startup in the UK can feel like navigating a complex maze without a map. The unique demands of deep tech and hardware development, coupled with a rapidly evolving market, often present a distinct set of challenges for founders seeking capital. Fundraising services exist to make that journey more manageable — but with a growing number operating across the UK, discerning which ones truly offer value can be a significant challenge.
In the current UK market, where early-stage deal volume has experienced some fluctuation, the competition for funding remains intense. This environment makes strategic fundraising guidance more critical than ever, especially for AR/VR ventures that require significant upfront investment and often have longer development cycles. Fundraising services act as an extension of your team, providing the expertise and network needed to navigate this landscape effectively.
Fundraising services are professional firms or consultants that assist startups in securing capital from investors. For early-stage AR/VR startups, these services can be particularly impactful. They typically offer a range of support, from developing a compelling pitch deck and financial model to identifying and approaching suitable investors, managing the due diligence process, and negotiating terms. This comprehensive support allows founders to remain focused on product development and market penetration, rather than being solely consumed by the fundraising process.
When evaluating fundraising services, consider their specialisation. Do they have a proven track record with AR/VR or deep tech companies? Look for firms that understand the nuances of hardware development, IP protection, and the specific market dynamics of augmented and virtual reality. Understanding their fee structure is also crucial; some operate on retainers, others on success fees, or a hybrid model. Furthermore, assess their network. A service with strong connections to relevant angel networks, venture capitalists, and corporate investors in the UK AR/VR space can significantly accelerate your fundraising timeline.
The right fundraising service can be a catalyst for faster, smarter fundraising, enabling you to secure the capital needed to transform your AR/VR vision into reality.

We are a full-service advisory exclusively working with Start-ups, Founders, SMEs, and Scale-ups to assist and enable you to be investor-ready prior to presenting to our investment community and panel of focused engaged investors.
With over 30 years’ experience, we offer real advice and support based on our expertise in improving investment decks and presentations, from full preparation, research, and design of Pitch Decks, Investment Memorandums, Pitch Presentations, and MVP R&D design & development, R&D Tax Credits, full or P/T Board Advisory including NEDS and Chairs as your business grows and scales.
Our Panel members consist of leading investment sector professionals Angels, HNW, VC, PE, etc

DR-Ventures is a strategic growth advisory firm supporting technology businesses from early-stage startups to venture capital funds and family offices since 2022.
We specialize in investor relations, education and mentorship, round modeling, and growth strategy.

Advisory, Finance and Wealth services and expertise for SMEs in the consumer, Climate, Technology & Data, Property and Health & Life Sciences sectors.

Through F+L Capital, we invest directly and help companies raise through our trusted network of angels, family offices, and funds.
From narrative refinement and deck prep to investor intros and syndication, we know what it takes to close a round - because we’ve done it ourselves.