hercules technology growth capital, inc. (nyse: htgc) ("hercules") is the leading specialty finance company focused on providing senior secured loans to venture capital-backed companies in technology-related markets, including technology, biotechnology, life science, and energy & renewable technology industries, at all stages of development. since inception (december 2003), hercules has committed more than $4.6 billion to over 300 companies and is the lender of choice for entrepreneurs and venture capital firms seeking growth capital financing. at hercules, we provide venture debt to entrepreneurial companies at all stages of development to further their growth and help them achieve key milestones. in addition to the capital we provide, many times the access to our network of contacts and simple business advice can prove to be equally as valuable. we understand the importance of these intangibles because we, like the companies which choose hercules, also come from an entrepreneur