This book explores current financing optionsfor small and medium size enterprises (SMEs), with particular insight into theEuropean market. The authors position SME funding within a risk-averse lendingenvironment with high regulatory costs on business loans, which has arisen fromthe recent financial crisis and new European bank capital regulations. Chaptersin the book demonstrate how and why SMEs may be forced to leave the market andposit that shadow banking and other alternative funding options are viablechannels for raising funds. A new and innovative SME credit risk model is alsopresented. This book will appeal to all who share an interest in sustainable solutions toissues in SME financing.