The private equity and venture capital industry’s upcoming annual conference will look at the challenges and opportunities for New Zealand investors as investment markets adjust to the economic climate, says New Zealand Private Equity and Venture Capital Association executive director Colin McKinnon.

The eighth annual NZVCA conference is being held in Auckland on 4 November. The conference draws together New Zealand’s private capital investment professionals, institutions, and advisors.

Colin McKinnon said the opening session of this year’s conference will focus on lessons from the past decade with insight for future prospects for informed investors.

“The last year has brought many substantial adjustments to investors in private companies. Despite the upheavals, however, many good opportunities exist for investment in the New Zealand venture capital and private equity markets.

“The New Zealand venture capital and private equity markets have undergone good growth over the last five years and maintained robust performance in difficult economic conditions. A focus of this year’s conference is how to continue and build on that progress and take advantage of emerging trends in sectors such as the clean economy and infrastructure funding.

“A number of Australian industry figures will be attending. The conference will hear from Bill Ferris, a veteran of private equity and the founder of Australia’s first venture capital firm. Les Fallick, with twenty years experience in raising private equity, will address the challenges of raising capital for PE and venture funds.

“Other international speakers, including Bridget Liddell and Jim Connor (Sand Hill Angels) will add perspectives on the impact the international situation is having on entrepreneurial activity in the major economies.”

Media contact:
New Zealand Venture Capital Association
Colin McKinnon, Executive Director
Ph (64-9) 302-5218, Email colin.mckinnon@nzvca.co.nz