What is ESIC?
The Early Stage Innovation Company (ESIC) tax incentive provides eligible investors with tax benefits for investing in early-stage startups. To ensure compliance, Aussie Angels requires founders to provide formal proof of their company’s ESIC status before any investment can be promoted as ESIC-eligible.
When do I need to provide proof?
If you are planning to claim that your investment opportunity is ESIC eligible, you must:
Have the founder complete the ESIC Eligibility Qualification Form (linked below).
Ensure the founder signs and dates the form.
Return the signed form to Aussie Angels before your deal is launched.
👉 ESIC Eligibility Declaration Template
Why is this required?
Aussie Angels cannot allow ESIC eligibility to be claimed in any deal unless the founder has formally declared it using the template.
This ensures clarity for investors and reduces risk of non-compliance.
The signed form acts as proof that the founder, not Aussie Angels, is responsible for the ESIC claim.
Process Summary
Download the ESIC Eligibility Qualification Template.
Send it to the founder for completion and signature.
Collect the signed copy and return it to Aussie Angels.
Launch your deal – with ESIC clearly noted (if eligible).
Risk & Disclosure
A section will also be included in your Risk and Disclosure statements highlighting:
The risks associated with claiming ESIC eligibility.
That Aussie Angels does not provide tax or legal advice.
That investors should seek their own professional advice before relying on ESIC eligibility.
✅ Key Point: Without a signed ESIC form returned to Aussie Angels, ESIC cannot be referenced in your deal note or investor communications.