Abstract

Challenges of evaluating new evolving technologies are particularly pronounced for clean technology firms (CTFs) in need of venture capital (VC). This study investigates how Technology Approval Group (TAG) may bridge an identified funding gap. TAG is a communication tool enabling investors that traditionally would not invest that early in an innovation to feel confident in injecting VC into developing CTFs. In the study, challenges facing the investors include high levels of risk and small investment sums required. Additional characteristics that affect the funding process are the market size, the communication platforms and the political climate. A successful implementation of TAG in the water sector, in the UK, provided inspiration for expanding the use to other sectors and geographical markets where new challenges were identified. The identified risks with using a tool like TAG are associated with ethical questions, handling dependencies and the challenge of forecasting sustainable technological development

Keywords

CT; clean technology; NTBFs; new technology-based firms; sustainable development; VC; venture capital; funding gap

Published in

International Journal of Sustainable Economy
2011, Volume: 3, number: 4, pages: 395-409
Publisher: Indersciende

SLU Authors

• Tunberg, Maria

  • Department of Economics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

• Mark-Herbert, Cecilia

  • Department of Economics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

UKÄ Subject classification

Environmental Sciences related to Agriculture and Land-use


Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/36963