This course offers a practical, “real world” understanding of venture capital from both the entrepreneur's and the venture capitalist's perspective. It examines how VC investments are evaluated and structured, and explores strategies for attracting and negotiating venture investments. A key focus is on strategically driven, corporate venture investing and the potential tensions and divergence of interests between the entrepreneur and the corporate investor. We also examine alternative models for introducing venture capital funding mechanisms in various European & Asian countries. The course heavily leverages recent Silicon Valley deals, and involves direct student interaction with the actual entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and corporate executives driving these transactions. To emphasize the risky and volatile nature of venture work, we will examine a mix of dramatic success stories, horrific failures and deals where the outcome remains uncertain. The course is a two-day intensive seminar and uses a combination of guest speakers, case studies, discussions, and student presentations. The class is particularly appropriate for those with a strong interest in new ventures and considering careers as entrepreneurs, venture capitalists or corporate development executives.