In 2025, investor relations (IR) looks nothing like it did just a few years ago. According to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), over 68% of UK companies now conduct virtual shareholder meetings, while retail investor participation has risen by 43% since 2020.
For UK entrepreneurs seeking capital, understanding this digital transformation isn’t optional — it’s essential.
Investor relations has been democratised. Gone are the days when IR meant quarterly reports and closed-door meetings with institutional investors. Today’s environment demands:
Digital-first founders are learning that inclusive, accessible investor communication drives trust, diversification, and stronger funding outcomes.
The average UK growth-stage business now manages investor communications across five to seven platforms — from traditional portals to LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and private investor dashboards. Maintaining consistent, compliant messaging across all channels is one of the biggest operational challenges for founders.
With the FCA’s Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) now in effect, companies face pressure to integrate ESG metrics into investor updates. Many early-stage businesses lack the systems to track, benchmark, and report ESG data effectively.
💡 89% of UK institutional investors now consider ESG factors when making decisions.
Institutional investors expect detailed financial modelling and compliance clarity, while retail investors look for accessible insights and transparency. Bridging these expectations requires thoughtful content design and the right technology stack.
Modern investors expect instant access to performance metrics — from revenue growth to ESG progress. Without digital dashboards or AI-enabled reporting, many startups struggle to meet those expectations, limiting their funding potential.
Invest in comprehensive IR platforms such as Q4, Nasdaq IR Insight, or UK-based solutions like Investis Digital. These systems streamline compliance and communication, offering:
Typical cost: £3,000–£15,000 annually.
Action step: Audit your current IR tools. If you’re relying solely on email and PDFs, you’re already behind.
Use dedicated ESG reporting platforms such as Workiva, Novata, or Apiday to simplify measurement and disclosure. These tools help you:
Social channels are now vital IR touchpoints, especially for attracting retail investors.
📈 FCA analysis shows retail investor activity via social platforms has surged by over 40% since 2020.
Artificial intelligence is transforming how founders understand and respond to investor sentiment.
🧠 Startups using AI for IR insights report improved investor engagement and shorter fundraising cycles.
Monitor metrics that indicate investor trust and engagement:
|
Metric |
What It Measures |
Benchmark |
|
Investor Engagement Rate |
% of investors actively accessing IR content |
35–45% |
|
Virtual Meeting Attendance |
Participation in online investor events |
60–70% |
|
Social Media Reach |
Growth in investor-focused followers |
15–20% quarterly |
|
Time-to-Information |
Average speed to deliver requested data |
< 24 hours |
Emerging trends — such as blockchain-based shareholder voting, AI-powered financial modelling, and metaverse investor events — will shape the next wave of investor engagement.
The democratisation of IR creates unprecedented opportunity for UK entrepreneurs to build diverse, loyal investor communities.
By embracing digital-first communication, ESG transparency, and real-time analytics, you’ll future-proof your investor relationships and strengthen your next funding round.
Need personalised guidance? Book a complimentary 30-minute IR strategy consultation with our funding experts to identify the most impactful digital IR improvements for your business.
The future of investor relations is digital, accessible, and data-driven. The question isn't whether to evolve your IR strategy—it's whether you'll lead the transformation or scramble to catch up.