ICT Finance MarketPlace is an EU-funded initiative delivered under the 7th Framework Programme to improve access to finance for SMEs engaged in ICT innovation.ICT SMEs are invited to attend a Venture Academy and Investment Forum on 15th (afternoon) and 16th (morning) of June 2011 respectively.Designed for ICT sector SMEs, the Venture Academy is a 1-day, coaching event where experienced coaches help participants pragmatically develop pitching skills to investors. It is a vital preparatory step for the 16th June Investment Forum.The Venture Academy will benefit to entrepreneurs seeking finance and access to international markets. Participants will be provided with information, tools and resources to help them find investment partners and grow their business.Focus is on the approach to meeting with strategic partners and on the expectations of potential investors. Participants will receive guidance on how their presentations and business proposals compare with other participants, highlighting strengths and weaknesses and advising on how to address these to maximise the impact of their pitch. Experienced coaches from different backgrounds will provide the feedback:Independent Coaches able to provide personal advisory services and who are themselves: Former Venture Capital managersEntrepreneursFormer business advisorsAdvisory Coaches from established advisory practices who are: Consultants from larger or specialised consulting/ accounting firmsHead-hunters or interim managersM&A advisors or investment bankersThe Investment Forum offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase their business in front of an international network of business angel, venture capital, corporate and other investors as well as expert advisors and potential strategic partners and to meet with them afterwards. The Investment Forum takes place on 16th June and participating entrepreneurs will thereby have an opportunity to capitalise on tips and suggestions gathered from their coaches, thus maximising the impact.All three events are fully are sponsored and supported by the EU and thus, there is no charge for participation.These events are run in conjunction with the first-ever EU Digital Agenda Assembly to be held on the 16th and 17th of June in the museums of the Parc Cinquantenaire in Brussels at the same location.  Awards for the best investor presentations will be presented by Commissioner Kroes during the Digital Agenda Assembly.Places are strictly limited to 16 SMEs selected on a competitive basis. Therefore, please apply before 20th May 2011, 16:00 CET.Registration: e-unlimited.com/events/register.aspx?events_id=373