European Crowdfunding Network | October 30, 2013

The rise of crowdfunding over the past decade is a result of the on-going digitalisation of processes and communication in our society, with easy access to high-speed internet and digital devices. But crowdfunding has recently been moved to the forefront in the discussion on access to finance. This is a result of the economic crisis and the associated market failures of the incumbent financial services industry, which provides financing to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Due to the benefits Crowdfunding provides for the financing of small and medium-sized enterprises, the European Commission has indicated an intention to support Crowdfunding. For example in its Green Paper on long-term financing of the European economy published on 25 March 2013 the European Commission raises the question how “non-traditional sources of finance, such as crowdfunding, can be supported”.

The European Crowdfunding Network Review of Crowdfunding Regulation 2013 considers the varying applications of the single market legislation to Crowdfunders across Europe both now and in the foreseeable future. Furthermore it takes a look at the Crowdfunding regulation in other relevant countries abroad.

Published by: European Crowdfunding Network, Belgium (2013)

Download full 'Review of Crowdfunding Regulation' (246 page PDF)

Download Canadian Chapter prepared by Brian Koscak (10 page PDF)

Download Summary - Comparative table (51 page PDF)

The European Crowdfunding Network is extremely grateful to every single contributor to this paper, who has given her or his expertise free of charge and in a very short time frame. There are too many people involved to mention them all here, but the reader can find their contact details at the end of each contribution. When we presented the idea to Tanja Aschenbeck-Florange of Osborne Clarke, Germany, she immediately understood the value and committed her time and that of her team. This paper would not have happened without her. Together with her colleague Thomas Nagel, she is responsible for the majority of the legal editing. We also thank Reid Feldman of Kramer Levin, France, who came forward on his own accord and supported the editing work. There are many other people that have helped in other ways and we are grateful for their support, too.

We trust that this paper will be a key tool for regulators across Europe and beyond, for entrepreneurs, investors and any other interested stakeholder. Let us shape the future of crowdfunding together.

Continue to 'Review of Crowdfunding Regulation" Source

The National Crowdfunding Association of Canada (NCFA Canada) is a cross-Canada crowdfunding hub providing education, advocacy and networking opportunities in the rapidly evolving crowdfunding industry. NCFA Canada is a community-based, membership-driven entity that was formed at the grass roots level to fill a national need in the market place. Join our growing network of industry stakeholders, fundraisers and investors. Increase your organization’s profile and gain access to a dynamic group of industry front runners. Learn more eBrochure | Prezi or contact us at casano@ncfacanada.org.