Devon-based AI powered sales outreach platform, Sendr, has secured a £250,000 equity investment from the British Business Bank’s South West Investment Fund via appointed fund manager, The FSE Group. The investment forms part of a wider funding round aimed at accelerating further product development and market expansion.

Founded in 2023 by Dave Cannell and John Bromley, Sendr is a cutting-edge platform that transforms traditional mass email marketing. Head-quartered in Exeter, Sendr creates personalised, short-form video content powered by advanced AI tools, allowing businesses to engage clients more effectively. The company has quickly gained traction, securing partnerships with prestigious organisations including the Financial Times.

The investment will support the company in achieving the interim growth needed to unlock further funding opportunities. With these resources, Sendr plans to enhance its technological offerings and solidify its position in the rapidly growing market of personalised AI sales experiences.

Sendr’s solution to the inefficiencies of traditional mass marketing uses AI for voice matching and lip-syncing, delivering videos that feel personally tailored for each viewer. This approach not only increases engagement but the platform also integrates seamlessly with CRM systems, allowing for automated, large-scale video personalisation.

Dave Cannell, Sendr co-founder and CEO, said: “This funding is a pivotal step in our journey to redefine client engagement through innovative technology. The backing from FSE and the South West Investment Fund provides not just finance but also strategic support that will help propel Sendr forward. We look forward to working with Matt and the FSE team on this journey.”

Matt Browning, Investment Manager at The FSE Group added: “Sendr presents a compelling investment opportunity with its innovative approach to digital marketing. We are excited to work with this dynamic business as it continues to grow and disrupt the market with its personalised video solutions.”

Paul Jones, Senior Investment Manager from the British Business Bank said: “Sendr is among a growing number of South West businesses that are embracing the power of AI to transform their client offer. Their platform is a good example of the kind of innovation the South West Investment Fund is designed to support, as they scale and accelerate their growth journey.”

Research suggest the digital advertising market is currently valued at $700 billion globally, with the segment of personalised AI sales experiences expected to grow at an annual rate of 25% over the next five years. As businesses shift towards more engaging and effective marketing strategies, Sendr says it is well-positioned to capitalise on this trend, offering a solution that meets the increasing demand for personalised and dynamic content.

The purpose of the South West Investment Fund is to drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating local opportunity for new and growing businesses across the South West. It offers a range of commercial finance options with smaller loans from £25k to £100k, debt finance from £100k to £2m and equity investment up to £5 million.

The fund is increasing the supply and diversity of early-stage finance for South West smaller businesses, providing funds to firms that might otherwise not receive investment and helping to break down barriers in access to finance.