NVCA Today

Which venture capitalist backed a new prostate cancer screening test which, years later, detected the disease in him? Why is government policy critical to ensuring that new technologies - such as that prostate cancer test - continue to be brought to market? And what motivates venture capitalists each morning to take the business risks that no other investor is willing to take?

"Venture Voices," a new video series produced by the National Venture Capital Association, answers these questions and offers an intimate look at various aspects of the asset class as told by pioneering VCs both past and present. Our library (which can be viewed at www.nvca.org/venturevoices) includes:

"In the Beginning" - Legendary VCs share their personal stories behind the founding of the NVCA more than 30 years ago.

"Working Together" - A close look at the relationship between government and venture capital in job creation and innovation.

"Venture Legacy" - VC pioneers reflect on the venture-backed companies that have helped shaped the modern economy and technologies. Some of these household names might surprise you.

"Creating the Future" - An inside look at the promise of next-generation venture-backed innovations.

"Improving Quality of Life" - Venture capital saves lives. Veteran life sciences investors explain how.

"Close to Home" - VCs share the ironies of backing medical innovations for millions of Americans, including VCs' own family members...and themselves.

"More than Money" - Venture capital. Venture coach. Venture partner. How VCs support entrepreneurs beyond the dollar.

"Not for the Faint of Heart" - What's required to take the ultimate business risk? VCs discuss the uncertainty of venture investing .

"Placing the Bet" - VCs share some of the key attributes of successful entrepreneurs, companies, and innovations.

"Risky Business" - Failure is part of the VC business model. Here is how some of the best navigate the potential pitfalls of venture investing.

"The Motivation" - Hear what inspires VCs - past and present -- to embrace the long term risk and tough it out alongside their entrepreneurs.

"Distinctly VC" - From job creation to technological innovation, VC's unique contributions to the economy change the world in which we live.

We invite you to view these 12 vignettes at your leisure for a closer look at the unique relationship between venture capitalists and entrepreneurs, and the world class innovation that's brought to market as a result.