Written by an industry pioneer who has hands-on experience in the brave new world of peer-to-peer lending and equity crowdfunding, this book serves as a resource for investors and entrepreneurs alike and investigates how these alternative mechanisms will increase the financial and operational capacity of borrowers, lenders, buyers, and sellers in the private markets. • Describes the inherent value in democratization of capital and financial inclusion using peer-to-peer credit and equity crowdfunding that can assist private investors, banks, small businesses, and pension fund managers with market participation • Documents the necessity for fostering transparency, enhancing risk management, and establishing a secondary market to increase distribution and liquidity • Explains how to raise capital, invest, and make a social justice impact using digital finance • Highlights how social media connections influence the capital-raising process