AI companies are particularly hard to assess with standard frameworks.
The claims are often difficult to verify without deep technical knowledge. The commercial models are frequently novel. And the gap between what a management team believes and what a room full of engineers knows can be very wide indeed.
Standard due diligence frameworks — built for conventional software businesses or mature trading companies — are inadequate for AI-native businesses. You need reviewers who understand what good AI architecture looks like and how AI commercial models succeed and fail.
Technical Due Diligence
A deep-level review of technology architecture, codebase quality, AI model validity, and technical risk. Conducted by Anthony Smith, who has managed major platform transactions in the automotive technology sector.
Anthony Smith — Technical Partner
Former Head of Technology at Aston Barclay, having led the technology function through the company's acquisition by BCA. Anthony brings the perspective of a technology executive who has been on the target side of a major due diligence process.
Commercial & Governance Due Diligence
A rigorous assessment of commercial model viability, market positioning, management team capability, and corporate governance. Conducted by Piers Corfield, a serial founder with three exits and deep experience in technology commercialisation.
Piers Corfield — Managing Partner
Serial entrepreneur with four technology company foundings and three successful exits, having raised over £15m in innovation finance and operated as CTO and CEO across multiple ventures.
One integrated report. Two complete perspectives.
Clear assessment
A structured report written for the investment committee or board, with a clear overall assessment and flagged risks ranked by materiality.
Risk register
Specific technical and commercial risk flags with context, severity, and recommended mitigation or negotiating position where possible.
Value creation framework
Where appropriate, a post-investment framework identifying the highest-leverage areas for value creation in the 12–24 months following close.
Standard engagements are completed within three to four weeks. Complex or international assignments may require additional time. We operate under NDA as standard.
The full range of AI transaction participants.
Every engagement begins with an honest conversation about scope and fit.
Please include a brief description of the company and transaction context when you get in touch.
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