VENTURE CAPITAL BOARD

In reply to Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (26 July 2008).

The Hon. K.O. FOLEY (Port Adelaide—Deputy Premier, Treasurer, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Federal/State Relations): I have been provided the following information:

Most of the 36 educational networking activities are part of the Venture Capital Board's equity ready program, which is a program of workshops and activities providing awareness and understanding of what it takes to be ready to attract private equity investment. The program provides a pathway for companies to follow to give them the best chance of attracting private equity investment. There were some additional needs based activities specifically created as well.

The external cost of conducting the educational workshops in 2007-08 was $43,300. This includes the direct costs of the private sector presenters, venue hire and costs of private equity reviews.