Venture capitalism is a risky business at the best of times. But it's also exhilarating. Bill Ferris, one of Australia's first and most successful venture capitalists, has seen his share of successful floats, fly-by-night wonders and companies gone wrong. Now he takes you behind closed doors to show you how venture capitalists actually work and conduct their business, and the twenty major lessons he's learned along the way.
Whether you're working in venture capital, an entrepreneur wondering about finding a financial backer, or just interested in making serious money, Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained will give you an insight into the way venture capitalists really work and think.
'Venture capital is at the truly entrepreneurial edge of business. In Australia there has been more preaching about it than practice. Bill Ferris has done both, the latter with considerable success. In this lively account of his experience over nearly thirty years he draws attention to the pitfalls, the lessons and the rewards of a business life at the cutting edge.'
John N. Button, Minister for Industry, 1983-93
'A timely contribution by an experienced practitioner and pioneer of venture capital activities in Australia that provides some valuable insights into what is needed for success.'
John Ralph, Chairman, Business Review of Taxation
'Witty and informative-recommended to any student of venture capital or anyone contemplating a career in this exciting arena.'
Professor Jeremy Davis, Australian Graduate School of Management