Working together to support technology start ups

The owner of an American company wanted to set up a new UK subsidiary, in partnership with a Scottish University, and approached EQ to discuss how best to structure.

After early discussions, it became clear that funding was an issue that needed to be addressed. The possibility of setting the company up to secure EIS status was presented to the client, as it would ensure valuable tax relief for investors. Our team went on to apply for, and secure EIS status which was a catalyst for securing the necessary funding.

Our next challenge was to consider the relationship with the company in the US. After considering the US operation’s opportunity in Europe, we recommended a stand-alone structure where the US parent supplied some refundable debt.

With funding secured, protection of intellectual property meant appointing a patent attorney to protect the ideas being generated. Our team also ensured a valid R&D tax credits claim would be possible.

Finally, we established an EMI share options scheme, a highly tax efficient incentive for key staff to share in the success of a business.

Great advice at the right time helps businesses soar and at EQ we act for many technology businesses and companies with overseas owners.

If you would like support regarding your EMI share options or potential R&D tax credit claims, please email our EQ Taxperts on taxation@eqaccountants.co.uk.

Alternatively, our ever-expanding Technology team are there to help you achieve your goals, offering support in all areas, whether it be bookkeeping and payroll processing through to structure, funding and staff retention. To speak to one of our specialists about your technology business, please email our EQ Technology team on technology@eqaccountants.co.uk.