Debt Uncovered: Venture Debt

At first glance taking on debt may seem like an odd thing for start-ups that are cash flow negative to consider, but the creation of a venture debt community has been identified as a crucial cornerstone of any thriving start-up ecosystem.

Indeed, in her eponymous and landmark study on that state of the UK start-up scene, serial entrepreneur Sherry Coutu listed the creation of a thriving venture debt market as a key enabler of rapid company growth. The numbers tell the story. In the thriving and established US venture market, around a fifth of US companies take on venture debt. In the UK the figure is less than 10%.

This podcast will help understand how venture debt supports companies in scale-up mode, and dig into why sponsors and entrepreneurs should seriously consider taking it on. 

Moderator:

  • Nicholas Neveling, Editorial Director, Real Deals

Speakers:

  • Will Chappel, Head of Growth Capital & Venture at Shawbrook Bank 
  • Giles Hawkins, a partner at law firm Ashfords

Om Podcasten

For over 20 years, Real Deals have been the independent voice of European private equity providing essential market intelligence, deal information, and insight to Europe's leading GPs, their advisers, & LPs. The Drawdown provides vital insight and analysis for operational professionals in private equity and venture capital. Our mission is to empower & celebrate operational professionals who ensure funds are managed in a robust and compliant manner, lead on in-house technology strategies, regulations & compliance, ESG, & other vital functions that ensure the well-being of the industry.