VentureCapitalGesellschaften

Venture capital is a form of private equity financing provided by specialized firms or funds to early- and growth-stage companies with high potential for scalable expansion. Venture investments are typically made in exchange for equity or convertible securities, and they usually come with active governance rights, such as board representation or observer seats. The aim is to accelerate product development, market entry, and revenue growth, with the expectation of a later liquidity event that yields substantial returns.

VC firms raise capital from limited partners, including pension funds, endowments, sovereign wealth funds, and high-net-worth individuals. General partners manage the fund, sourcing deals, conducting due diligence, negotiating terms, and supporting portfolio companies. Financing occurs in rounds—seed, early, and growth—each providing capital in exchange for incremental equity and often additional rights or preferences. In addition to capital, venture investors commonly contribute strategic guidance, recruiting, and access to networks.

Terms and outcomes vary, but common features include staged investing, pro rata rights, liquidation preferences, and board influence. The exit objective is typically a liquidity event such as an acquisition or initial public offering, usually within four to ten years. Returns are highly variable; a small subset of investments may generate the majority of profits, while many fail or produce modest gains. While technology and life sciences are prominent sectors, venture capital supports a broad range of industries and geographies, reflecting its global expansion and evolving investment models.