venture capital

Capital invested into small and young companies in return for equity ownership. Generally speaking, venture capitalists (VCs) supply capital to companies that are small, may be start-ups, are high risk, and which could not get the funds by listing on the stock market or borrowing from banks.

In return for taking the extra risk, the VCs look for substantial equity, a seat on the board, and possibly the ratcheting up of their equity stake if performance targets are not met. Sometimes, they provide management and financial support to their investee companies, as well as just money. They will look for an exit through a trade sale or a flotation of the company within 2-5 years.

Also called 'risk capital'.