Raising Venture Capital Finance in Europe

Book excerpt: European private equity investment reached €47 billion in 2005, up 27% from 2004. Funds raised for private equity were €72 billion, up 250% on the previous year, both figures being all time highs. Raising Venture Capital Finance in Europe provides business owners, entrepreneurs and investors alike with a step-by-step approach to exploiting this market and funding new projects effectively. Written by Keith Arundale, an advisor and commentator on the European and US VC and private equity industry for over 20 years, the guide blends business experience with practical approaches to enable the reader to maximize the opportunities available. The book includes a series of real-life case studies from venture capitalists and entrepreneurs from around Europe, each with practical tips for successful venture capital finance raising. With forewords from Sir Paul Judge (Chairman, Enterprise Education Trust) and Patrick Sheehan (Chairman, Venture Capital Committee, European Private Equity and Venture Capital Association) the book begins with a brief introduction to the field, including an analysis of current trends and issues in the industry, and goes on to provide a detailed framework for an objective assessment of each business opportunity. The book looks at sources of finance and private equity, shows how to write a successful business plan, details the entire investment process, and considers the tax and legal issues involved. A particular feature of the book is that it looks at the topic from both sides - showing what the venture capitalist is looking for as well as detailing how an entrepreneur or business owner can make proposals attractive to those investors This means that the reader will be able to minimize time wasted on unnecessary activities and therefore develop investment approaches which are succinct, relevant, and give every chance of success.