Introduction

The book covers two broad areas, the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) sector and the operation of the venture capital (VC) industry, and a third strand examines the potential role of Islamic VC. These topics are considered in the context of India, a nation of many contrasts and enormous economic potential. The book is underpinned by a major study of the VC sector in India. The survey was conducted in the early part of the new Millennium, and the data were supplemented by ongoing dialogue with the VC community in that country. The authors also draw upon a comprehensive literature review, as well as secondary data and information from specialist research institutions and the financial media. The material should be of interest to finance practitioners, policy makers, entrepreneurs and academics.