'Investment Readiness': A Critique of Government Proposals to Increase the Demand for Venture Capital

Intervention to address the equity gap has traditionally concentrated on supply-side initiatives. However, it is now recognized that demand side deficiencies are a significant reason why small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are unsuccessful in raising venture capital. This reinterpretation is reflected in recent documents from the UK government - most recently a Consultative Paper from HM Treasury and the Small Business Service - which have highlighted the need for SMEs to become 'investment ready' in order to take advantage of the increased supply of venture capital that is now available. This article provides a critique of the Consultative Document's definition of investment readiness and outlines a programme to enhance investment readiness amongst SMEs.