Glossary of fundraising terms

Crowdfunding: a digital-age way of collecting funding through web-based platforms like Kickstarter and Prosper. Includes the following types:

  • Donation-based crowdfunding: Contributions without financial return

  • Reward-based crowdfunding: Backers receive non-monetary rewards

  • Equity crowdfunding: Investors fund in exchange for ownership

  • Debt crowdfunding: Individuals lend money for repayment with interest

Venture Fund: Specialized investment fund supporting startup and early-stage companies. Facilitates development and growth, providing financial resources and expertise.

Examples of venture funds:

Angel Investors: High net-worth individuals investing in early-stage startups, offering not only capital but also expertise and connections.

Mezzanine Debt Lenders: Blend of debt and equity financing, offering flexibility between traditional loans and equity investment.

Hard Money Lenders: Specialized lenders providing short-term loans with focus on collateral value.

Dry Powder: Capital available for new opportunities or supporting existing portfolio companies in venture capital and private equity.

Management Fee: Fee covering operational expenses charged by venture capital funds to limited partners.

Committed Capital: Total capital committed by limited partners to a venture capital fund over time.

Capital Call: Formal request by a venture capital fund for the contribution of committed capital from limited partners.