75440 - Venture Capital Philanthropy

Learning outcomes

The course explores the theoretical, regulatory, and empirical aspects of private equity and venture capital investments, with a focus on impact investing and venture philanthropy. The purpose is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical framework, evaluate the roles and strategies of key actors involved, analyse the regulatory environments and market dynamics, apply empirical insights to real-world data, critically assess the potential of equity investments to address societal issues. Personal interest and curiosity about the topic are essential for fully engaging with the course.

Course contents

Private equity, Venture Capital, Impact Investing, Social Business, Social Impact Assessment

Readings/Bibliography

The course has an applied approach and is based on the textbooks listed below, along with reports, articles, and case studies discussed in class by the instructor. As basic material for the course, please refer to:

• EVPA (2018), "A Practical Guide to Venture Philanthropy and social impact investing" (available at the following link: EVPA report).
  

Selected readings/chapters will be drawn from: 

• S. Caselli, G. Negri (2021). Private equity and venture capital in Europe, Third Edition, Elsevier Academic Press.

• S. Zambelli (2015). La Finanza a Impatto Sociale: Sfide e Prospettive della Venture Philanthropy. Aracne Editrice, Roma.

Teaching methods

Face-to-face lectures

Guest speaker's talks (in class or remote)

Discussion of articles and case studies

Assessment methods

Class assignments

Teamwork project based on course-related topics

Office hours

See the website of Francesco Savoia