Why invest in the UK regions? – Stephen Johnson, Mercia Ventures

Stephen Johnson of Mercia Ventures is at the helm of the Northern VCTs – a trio of Venture Capital Trusts that have been going since 1995, focusing on the UK’s regions, looking for early stage technology and B2B software businesses. Where have they been investing recently? What kind of exits have they had? Ultimately, should you invest in the Northern VCTs in 2025/26?

In this interview:
0:00 Intro: What are the Northern VCTs?
0:42 About Mercia Ventures, the manager
1:28 What companies do the Northern VCTs invest in?
2:16 Investing in Scalpel (medical vision AI business)
3:30 Investing in Risk Ledger (cybersecurity software)
4:32 Maturing investment Send (insurance software)
5:18 Exits: Gentronix (toxicology research), Intuitive (travel software)
5:51 CurrentBody IPO (Beauty Tech Group)
6:32 Is the exit environment improving?
7:24 How much risk is there in the VCT?
8:15 How do the Venture Capital Trusts structure their deals?
9:12 In summary, why invest in the Northern VCTs?
For more details on the Northern VCTs, including documents & how to invest, see https://www.wealthclub.co.uk/venture-....
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IMPORTANT
The opinions expressed in this video are the interviewee’s own and do not necessarily reflect the view of Wealth Club Limited. This interview, like our service, is not advice and the products featured are not suitable for everyone. Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) are higher risk and less liquid than mainstream investments. You could lose your capital. Tax rules can change and tax benefits depend on your circumstances. If you’re unsure an investment is right for you, please seek professional advice.