Soccer Manager Ltd, the UK-based independent studio behind the online multiplayer game SoccerManager.com, has won £300,000 investment from Mercia Fund Management.

The business says it will use the money to create new sports games, grow existing development capacity and buy in third-party support and expertise.

Mercia investment director Mike Hayes is a former chief executive of SEGA, while Mercia Investment panel member Nick Wheelwright is formerly of Codemasters. The fund is attracting more investments in gaming companies because of its close ties to the industry.

Andrew Gore, CEO of Soccer Manager said: "We are excited to be working with Mercia Fund Management due to their significant industry experience and strong network of contacts."

The Mercia Digital Fund uses a hybrid structure for tax-efficient investing combining the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS). Mercia invests in a diversified portfolio of innovative digital companies with high growth potential.