TechCapMarkets · TechCapMarkets: Improving access for innovative SMEs to Funding via EU Capital Markets

TechCap Markets will address a specific challenge in improving access by innovative SMEs to alternative finance: the lack of connectivity with exit markets such as stock exchanges and emerging growth markets for trading shares in private innovative SMEs.This lack of connectivity for both alternative finance providers and innovative SMEs is characterized by:- Lack of opportunity for Initial Purchase Offers (IPOs) for innovative SMEs in Europe- Challenges to trading privately held shares in Innovative SMEs- Sub-optimal use of public market investment vehicles in raising venture capital funds- Difficulty to raise capital via further issuances by listed innovative SMEs/Tech companiesIt will pursue the following objectives:- Establishing a High-Level Advisory Group and series of Expert Working Groups and capture the latest market expertise via these groups to deliver:o a whitepaper for exchange operators and policy makers containing best practice in public policy, regulatory environmentsand market operations and make recommendations as appropriateo develop a practical “how to” tool kit for innovative SMEs and alternative finance providers to access exchanges- Produce learning material tailored to different stakeholder groups and prepare and implement a capacity building plan for all stakeholders- Create awareness about exits to stock exchanges and the use of secondary market placesThe consortium is composed of 3 partners, designed to maximize the effectiveness of bringing together senior market practitioners and gathering and deploying their expertise. The partners specific expertise covers the individual requirements of the project: EUN - the current relationship between innovative SMEs and alternative finance providers such as BA and VC investors. IESE - world class research capabilities at the nexus of entrepreneurship and capital markets; PMEF - think tank of professionals in financing for entrepreneurs with strong public policy expertise.