After the problems caused by the dot com boom, there is now renewed interest in venture capital: private equity funds are reporting significantly increased levels of activity both in the UK and worldwide. The Bank of England regards assisting firms to become "investment ready" as the single most important task facing financial professionals over the next decade. This practical handbook provides advice and support for those considering attracting outside funding to their businesses. It describes step by step the mechanics of obtaining venture capital. "Venture Capital Funding" is refreshingly informal and conversational in style. Thankfully also jargon-free, it looks at every aspect of this fascinating subject, from deciding when to use outside funding, to post investment considerations such as what running the business with venture capitalists on board entails.The nuts and bolts of actually securing capital is broken down into the key considerations such as: the significance of the business plan, types of investor, targeting and attracting a funder, negotiation and initial valuation, the preliminary offer, detailed description of the "due diligence" process, investor strategies, and the types of investment instruments used. It also explores the variety of reasons for which funding can be sought and discusses the points in the business life cycle for which they are appropriate. An essential guide, "Venture Capital Funding" will enable anyone to understand the driving forces behind each stage of the investment process, and equip them to deal with venture capitalists and other professionals involved.