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This book aims to take stock and systemize existing knowledge on crowdfunding while providing overview of the industry, its regulatory environment and advancing the insight into the role of crowdfunding in the startup lifecycle.

It is adopting an exploratory and phenomenon-based approach which is deemed appropriate when investigating rather new phenomena. Furthermore, the research combines survey and interview methodologies to assess the opinion and real-world behavior of different stakeholders in crowdfunding marketplace and identify gaps requiring further academic consideration.

Empirical data was gathered using multiple interactive web-based questionnaires distributed to different stakeholders and informed general public mainly through the social networks (Linkedin, Facebook and Twitter) and direct solicitation of entrepreneurial associations, networks and online communities. The study conducted relies on both qualitative and quantitative analysis in attempt to find data patterns useful in future research and establish some managerial and policymaker recommendations based on limited evidence collected.

The work adds value to this field through a 3-fold contribution: Taking a look at crowdfunding through the prism of SWOT analysis of the practice itself and Porter s 5 forces analysis of crowdfunding platforms industry. Providing evidence in favor of implementing various degrees of regulation based on different crowdfunding categories, using the Italian case of equity-based crowdfunding regulation as a model. Finally, it yields some interesting findings on relevance of crowdfunding in the venture startup while pointing out key motivators which make entrepreneurs consider this fundraising option. In addition, related policymaker/managerial implications are exposed and academic literature updated with reference to contemporary developments in this dynamic field.

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Igor Micic is a M.Sc. in Economics with a keen interest for strategic management, entrepreneurial finance and investment strategies. Coming from an IT/software engineering background he successfully made a jump into the world of economics and finance, completing a 2-year economics and management program within one of the most prestigious business schools in Europe. He had numerous international experiences on the way doing internships in blue chip companies such as ENEL, ENI and London Stock Exchange Group as well as study periods at University of Konstanz and ETH, Zurich where he had chance to be lectured by some of the most prominent experts in the field of entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial risks and financial markets. He has been living in Serbia, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia, Turkey and is always ready for new challenges and seizing new opportunities worldwide. In his free time he enjoys clubbing and travelling while always keeping an eye on FT & BBG headlines.

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