U.S. Venture Capital Meets Clean-Technology

Abstract

Public concern over global climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation has amplified over the last several years, leading to increased demand for environmentally friendly products. Additionally, the price of Clean-Technology products has fallen. This paper examines venture capital investment in the Clean-Technology industry of the U.S. in 1995-2008. The paper explores the effects of macroeconomic variables, national venture capital investment and geography on Clean-Technology investment. The conclusion indicates the importance of geographical location in affecting Clean-Technology investment. A weak correlation between national venture capital and Clean-Technology investments raises the possibility of a more diversified investment portfolio.

Keywords: Venture Capital, Clean-Technology Industry, Economic Geography, Location, Environmental Economics, Sustainability, Industrial Sector

JEL Classification: C12, D81, D92, E22, G12, G24, G3, M13, M21, O16, O3