The fund, which is managed by regional development agency Finance South East, was joined in the investment round by 3en Ventures and a number of business angels.

Benjoy sells snack foods for young children, such as freeze-dried fruit slices and unsalted vegetable crisps, which are packaged to prevent spillage. The company was set up two years ago by Michelle Daniels.

Sally Goodsell, CEO of Finance South East, says, ‘By entering a growth market with a unique range of foods and very clever packaging that will fill a gap felt by many parents, Benjoy have positioned themselves strongly.’

The South East Seed Fund continues to seek early-stage companies in the region with the potential for growth. It invests between £100,000 and £250,000 on a matched funding basis.