GBI, the Subject of a Harvard Business School Case Study

On 1 April 2014, a Harvard Business School (HBS) case, written by Lynda Applegate, was taught for the first time to an executive program for owners of privately owned companies. Brigitte Baumann was present to provide input and to participate in the discussion.

The case covers the history of GBI and how it has become a pan-European angel investing service provider, the first to professionalise and democratise this activity. The purpose of the case study was to present the evolution of angel investing in Europe and the strategic choices GBI had to consider as this dynamic industry evolved. The industry was undergoing rapid competitive and regulatory changes at the same time angel investing was growing across Europe. These two factors played heavily into the decisions that GBI faced during a time of growth for the company.

The case will soon be available to be purchased and to be taught in other programs in both the US and Europe. To read the abstract go tohttp://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/item.aspx?num=46361.