Clearing the hurdles : women building high-growth businesses /

Written by five academics, this volume provides an interesting survey of the effects of societal attitudes on women entrepreneurs' ability to build high-growth businesses, as well as a useful business guide that provides straightforward, strategic information relevant to all entrepreneurs. Initial chapters assert the premise that today's businesswomen still face a culture of gender bias and role expectations and therefore must confront and surmount a higher standard before obtaining significant capital resources needed to achieve high growth. Following this, chapters 3, 5, and 6 provide valuable information and useful tools to navigate the intricacies of attracting equity investments. An impressive collection of current business, finance, investment, and entrepreneurial research and statistics augments the equity investment strategies offered to the entrepreneur. Each chapter is peppered with situational examples providing clarity and understanding of complex ideas. Entrepreneurs interested in high-growth strategies will find this book interesting and beneficial in pursuing long-term business objectives. ^BSumming Up: Recommended. Public, academic, and practitioner business collections. D. J. Rochester Walsh College of Accountancy and Business Administration

Five years of collaborative research have led the five authors, all consultants to women entrepreneurs, to identify the myths and realities confronting these women. To help them start, fund, and grow a new venture, the authors have compiled solutions to basic business challenges. They explore the key factors in success-the founder's objectives and expertise, financial resources, goal setting, networks, and management teams-while also explaining the strategies needed for success, including creating wealth, building credibility and networks, and choosing the right business and the right plan. Case studies are used throughout. An additional highlight is the detailed explanation of the venture capital process and industry. A wealth of endnotes for resources in print and online will lead readers to more and specific information sources. Most business collections will want to add this organized, well-researched, thoughtful work.-Susan C. Awe, Univ. of New Mexico Lib., Albuquerque (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.