Venture capital as a critical success condition for hightech development

This paper discusses the role of venture capital as a catalyst in policy efforts to stimulate high-tech activities. After a concise review of recent developments in venture capital provision in our ICT age, two interesting recent national experiences, viz. from The Netherlands and Israel, are discussed. Various critical success factors of corporate venture capital provision are identified and critically reviewed. The paper concludes with some brief policy lessons in terms of private initiatives and a broader sectoral orientation.