This highly accessible book brings together the insights of leading academics and researchers to promote a better understanding of the role of private equity providers in the development of growth-oriented start-ups and the management of growth processes. The book explores the domain of start-up and business venturing, and within this realm, the perspectives of the entrepreneur, the venture capitalist, the financial community and the role of government in private equity are considered. Specifically, topics discussed include: the venture capital industry investment in venture capital funds in Europe the Equity Gap European private equity funds the role of private equity in the creation of university spin-out companies motivation of entrepreneurs towards private equity operations. Providing theoretical frameworks together with practical conclusions and implications, this book will be warmly welcomed by academics and practitioners alike. It will be of particular value to scholars with an interest in business, management and entrepreneurship, to investment professionals and policy advisors involved in stimulating entrepreneurship, and, of course, to entrepreneurs themselves.