The course presented an overview of the major players in the private equity market and their respective roles and functions, and examines a variety of capital-raising activities including venture capital, initial public offerings, PIPES and other private financing methods. Private debt financing activities such as venture leasing were also examined. It also examined how venture capital firms create value through careful incentive contracting, thorough monitoring, and timely advice and counsel. Various exits for private equity investors were also explored as well as other private equity investment activities such as roll-ups and highly leveraged transactions.