Table of Contents

Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(2)
Registration No. 333-255716

PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT

(to Prospectus dated July 21, 2021)

 

Horizon Technology Finance Corporation

 

Up to $150,000,000

 

Common Stock

 

---

 

We have entered into an at market issuance sales agreement, dated September 22, 2023, or the Equity Distribution Agreement, with Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, or Goldman Sachs, and B. Riley Securities, Inc., or B. Riley Securities, relating to the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus. Our common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, or Nasdaq, under the symbol “HRZN”. The last reported sale price on the Nasdaq on September 21, 2023 was $11.68. The net asset value per share of our common stock at June 30, 2023 (the last date prior to the date of this prospectus supplement on which we determined net asset value) was $11.07.

 

We are a specialty finance company that lends to and invests in development-stage companies in the technology, life science, healthcare information and services and sustainability industries, which we refer to as our “Target Industries.” Our investment objective is to maximize our investment portfolio’s total return by generating current income from the debt investments we make and capital appreciation from the warrants we receive when making such debt investments. We are an externally managed, closed-end, non-diversified management investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company, or BDC, under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. We are externally managed by Horizon Technology Finance Management LLC, a registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Our investment objective is to maximize our investment portfolio’s total return by generating current income from the debt investments we make and capital appreciation from the warrants we receive when making such debt investments. We are focused on making secured debt investments, which we refer to collectively as “Venture Loans,” to venture capital and private equity backed companies and publicly traded companies in our Target Industries, which we refer to as “Venture Lending.” Our debt investments are typically secured by first liens or first liens behind a secured revolving line of credit, or collectively “Senior Term Loans.”

 

The Equity Distribution Agreement provides that we may offer and sell up to $150.0 million worth of our common stock from time to time through Goldman Sachs and B. Riley Securities, which we refer to as the “Agents”. Sales of our common stock, if any, under this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be made in negotiated transactions or transactions that are deemed to be “at the market,” as defined in Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, including sales made directly on the Nasdaq or similar securities exchange or sales made to or through a market maker other than on an exchange, at prices related to the prevailing market prices or at negotiated prices.

 

The Agents will receive a commission from us of 1.75% of the gross sales price of any shares of our common stock sold through the Agents under the Equity Distribution Agreement. The Agents are not required to sell any specific number or dollar amount of common stock, but will use their commercially reasonable efforts consistent with their sales and trading practices to sell the shares of our common stock offered by this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. See “Plan of Distribution” in this prospectus supplement. The sales price per share of our common stock offered by this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, less the Agents’ commission, will not be less than the net asset value per share of our common stock at the time of such sale.

 

 

Investing in our common stock should be considered highly speculative, and involves a high degree of risk including the risk of a substantial loss of investment and the risk of leverage and dilution. Before purchasing any shares of our common stock, you should read the discussion of the principal risks of investing in our securities, which are summarized in “Risk Factors” in this prospectus supplement, in the accompanying prospectus, in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and in our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, in any of our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and in any free writing prospectus to read about risks that you should consider before investing in our common stock, including the risk of leverage.

 

This prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus, and any free writing prospectus contain important information you should know before investing in our common stock and should be retained for future reference. We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information about us with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC. We maintain a website at www.horizontechfinance.com and intend to make all of the foregoing information available, free of charge, on or through our website. You may also obtain such information by contacting us at 312 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut 06032, or by calling us collect at (860) 676-8654. The SEC maintains a website at www.sec.gov where such information is available without charge. Information contained on, or that can be accessed through, our website is not incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus, and you should not consider information contained on our website to be part of this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus, or any free writing prospectus.

 

Neither the SEC nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC

B. Riley Securities

 

Prospectus supplement dated September 22, 2023

 

 

You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus, any free writing prospectus, the documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, or any other information which we have referred you. Neither we nor Goldman Sachs or B. Riley Securities has authorized any other person to provide you with different information from that contained in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and in any free writing prospectus. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. This prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus, or any free writing prospectus do not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any shares of our common stock by any person in any jurisdiction where it is unlawful for that person to make such an offer or solicitation or to any person in any jurisdiction to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation. The information contained in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus, and any free writing prospectus is complete and accurate only as of their respective dates, regardless of the time of their delivery or sale of our common stock. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.

 

This document is in two parts. The first part is this prospectus supplement, which describes the terms of this offering of common stock and also adds to and updates information contained in the accompanying prospectus. The second part is the accompanying prospectus, which provides more information about us, our common stock and related matters. To the extent the information contained in this prospectus supplement differs from the information contained in the accompanying prospectus, the information in this prospectus supplement shall control. You should read this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus together with the additional information described under the heading “Available Information” in this prospectus supplement before investing in our common stock.

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Forward-Looking Statements	S-1
PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT SUMMARY	S-2
Our Company	S-2
Company Information	S-3
THE OFFERING	S-4
FEES AND EXPENSES	S-6
Stockholder Transaction Expenses	S-6
RISK FACTORS	S-9
USE OF PROCEEDS	S-10
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION	S-11
LEGAL MATTERS	S-12
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM	S-12
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE	S-12
AVAILABLE INFORMATION	S-13

 

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

The matters discussed in this prospectus supplement, and the accompanying prospectus and any free writing prospectus, including the documents we incorporate by reference therein, as well as in future oral and written statements by management of Horizon Technology Finance Corporation that are forward-looking statements are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. We generally identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “ believes,” “estimates,” “seeks,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue” or the negatives thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. Important assumptions include our ability to originate new investments, achieve certain margins and levels of profitability, the availability of additional capital, and the ability to maintain certain debt to asset ratios. In light of these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of a projection or forward-looking statement in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus should not be regarded as a representation by us that our plans or objectives will be achieved. The forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus, and any free writing prospectus include statements as to:

 

●

our future operating results, including the performance of our existing debt investments, warrants and other investments;

●

the introduction, withdrawal, success and timing of business initiatives and strategies;

●

general economic and political trends and other external factors, including continuing supply chain disruptions, increased inflation and a general slowdown in economic activity;

●

the relative and absolute investment performance and operations of our investment advisor, Horizon Technology Finance Management LLC, or the Advisor;

●

the impact of increased competition;

●

the impact of investments we intend to make and future acquisitions and divestitures;

●

the unfavorable resolution of legal proceedings;

●

our business prospects and the prospects of our portfolio companies, including our and their ability to achieve our respective objectives as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic;

●

geopolitical turmoil, including the military dispute between Ukraine and Russia and Chinese aggression in the Taiwan Strait, and the potential for volatility in energy prices and disruptions to global supply chains resulting from such turmoil and its impact on the industries in which we invest;

●

the impact, extent and timing of technological changes and the adequacy of intellectual property protection;

●

our regulatory structure and tax status;

●

changes in the general interest rate environment;

●

our ability to qualify and maintain qualification as a regulated investment company, or RIC, and as a BDC;

●

the adequacy of our cash resources and working capital;

●

any losses or operations disruptions caused by us, our Advisor or our portfolio companies holding cash balances at financial institutions that exceed federally insured limits or by disruptions in the financial services industry;

●

the timing of cash flows, if any, from the operations of our portfolio companies, and the resulting effect on our portfolio companies’ decisions to make payment-in-kind interest payments or ability to make end of term payments;

●

the impact of interest rate volatility on our results, particularly if we use leverage as part of our investment strategy;

●

the ability of our portfolio companies to achieve their objective;

●

the impact of legislative and regulatory actions and reforms and regulatory supervisory or enforcement actions of government agencies relating to us or our Advisor;

●

our contractual arrangements and relationships with third parties;

●

our ability to access capital and any future financings by us;

●

our use of financial leverage;

●

the ability of our Advisor to attract and retain highly talented professionals;

●

the impact of changes to tax legislation and, generally, our tax position; and

●

our ability to fund unfunded commitments.

 

For a discussion of factors that could cause our actual results to differ from forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, please see the discussion under “Risk Factors” in this prospectus supplement and in the accompanying prospectus. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made in this prospectus supplement, including the documents that we incorporate by reference herein, and the accompanying prospectus and any free writing prospectus, including the documents we incorporate by reference therein, relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this prospectus.

 

 

FEES AND EXPENSES

 

The following table is intended to assist you in understanding the costs and expenses that an investor in shares of our common stock will bear directly or indirectly. However, we caution you that some of the percentages indicated in the table below are estimates and may vary. The following table and example should not be considered a representation of our future expenses. Actual expenses may be greater or less than shown. Except where the context suggests otherwise, whenever this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus contain a reference to fees or expenses paid by “you” or “us” or that “we” will pay fees or expenses, stockholders will indirectly bear such fees or expenses as investors in the Company.

 

Stockholder Transaction Expenses

 

Sales Load (as a percentage of offering price)			1.75	%	(1)
Offering Expenses (as a percentage of offering price)			0.17	%	(2)
Dividend Reinvestment Plan Fees			—		(3)
Total Stockholder Transaction Expenses (as a percentage of offering price)			1.92	%
Annual Expenses (as a Percentage of Net Assets Attributable to Common Stock)(4)
Base Management Fee			3.98	%	(5)
Incentive Fee Payable Under the Investment Management Agreement			4.26	%	(6)
Interest Payments on Borrowed Funds			10.49	%	(7)
Other Expenses (estimated for the current fiscal year)			1.61	%	(8)
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses			—	%	(9)
Total Annual Expenses (estimated)			20.34	%	(5)(10)

 

(1)	Represents the estimated commissions with respect to the shares sold by us in this offering.

 

(2)	The offering expenses of this offering borne by us are estimated to be approximately $250,000.

 

(3)	The expenses associated with the DRIP are included in “Other Expenses” in the table. See “Dividend Reinvestment Plan” in the accompanying prospectus.

 

(4)	Net Assets Attributable to Common Stock equals estimated average net assets for the current fiscal year and is based on our net assets at June 30, 2023 and includes the net proceeds of the offering estimated to be received by the Company.

 

(5)

Our base management fee under the Investment Management Agreement is based on our gross assets, less cash and cash equivalents, which includes assets acquired using leverage, including any leverage disclosed in the accompanying prospectus, and is payable monthly in arrears. The management fee referenced in the table above is based on our gross assets, less cash and cash equivalents, of $734.2 million as of June 30, 2023 and includes net proceeds of the offering, after the net proceeds have been invested in portfolio companies, and $167.8 million of assets estimated to be acquired in the current fiscal year using leverage. See “Investment Management and Administration Agreements — Investment Management Agreement” in the accompanying prospectus.

 

(6)	Our incentive fee payable under the Investment Management Agreement consists of two parts:

 

The first part, which is payable quarterly in arrears, subject to a Fee Cap and Deferral Mechanism, equals 20% of the excess, if any, of our Pre-Incentive Fee Net Investment Income over a 1.75% quarterly (7% annualized) hurdle rate and a “catch-up” provision measured as of the end of each calendar quarter. Under this provision, in any calendar quarter, our Advisor receives no incentive fee until our net investment income equals the hurdle rate of 1.75% but then receives, as a “catch-up,” 100% of our Pre-Incentive Fee Net Investment Income with respect to that portion of such Pre-Incentive Fee Net Investment Income, if any, that exceeds the hurdle rate but is less than 2.1875%. The effect of this provision is that, if Pre-Incentive Fee Net Investment Income exceeds 2.1875% in any calendar quarter, our Advisor will receive 20% of our Pre-Incentive Fee Net Investment Income as if a hurdle rate did not apply. The first part of the incentive fee is computed and paid on income that may include interest that is accrued but not yet received in cash.

 

 

The second part of the incentive fee equals 20% of our Incentive Fee Capital Gains, if any. Incentive Fee Capital Gains are our realized capital gains on a cumulative basis from inception through the end of each calendar year, computed net of all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation on a cumulative basis, less the aggregate amount of any previously paid capital gain incentive fees. The second part of the incentive fee is payable, in arrears, at the end of each calendar year (or upon termination of the Investment Management Agreement, as of the termination date). For a more detailed discussion of the calculation of this fee, see “Investment Management and Administration Agreements — Investment Management Agreement” in the accompanying prospectus.

 

The incentive payable to our Advisor represents our estimated annual expense incurred under the first part of the incentive fee payable under the Investment Management Agreement over the next twelve months. As of June 30, 2023, our cumulative realized capital gains and unrealized capital appreciation did not exceed our cumulative realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation. Given our strategy of investing primarily in Venture Loans, which are fixed-income assets, we believe it is unlikely that our cumulative realized capital gains and unrealized capital appreciation will exceed our cumulative realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation in the next twelve months. Consequently, we do not expect to incur any Incentive Fee Capital Gains during the next twelve months. As we cannot predict the occurrence of any capital gains from the portfolio, we have assumed no Incentive Fee Capital Gains.

 

(7)

Interest payments on borrowed funds represent our estimated annual interest payments on borrowed funds based on current debt levels as adjusted for projected increases in debt levels over the next twelve months. We may issue additional debt securities pursuant to the registration statement of which this prospectus supplement forms a part. In the event we were to issue additional debt securities, our borrowing costs, and correspondingly our total annual expenses, including, in the case of such preferred stock, our base management fee as a percentage of our net assets attributable to common stock, would increase.

 

(8)

“Other Expenses” includes our overhead expenses, including payments under the Administration Agreement, based on our allocable portion of overhead and other expenses incurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations under the Administration Agreement. See “Investment Management and Administration Agreements — Administration Agreement” in the accompanying prospectus. “Other expenses” also includes the ongoing administrative expenses to the independent accountants and legal counsel of the Company and compensation of independent directors.

 

(9)

Our stockholders indirectly bear the expenses of underlying funds or other investment vehicles that would be investment companies under Section 3(a) of the 1940 Act but for the exceptions to that definition provided for in Section 3(c)(1) and 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act, or Acquired Funds, in which we invest.

 

Future fees and expenses for Acquired Funds may be substantially higher or lower because certain fees and expenses are based on performance of such Acquired Funds, which may fluctuate over time.

 

(10)

“Total Annual Expenses” as a percentage of consolidated net assets attributable to common stock are higher than the total annual expenses percentage would be for a company that is not leveraged. We borrow money to leverage our net assets and increase our total assets. The SEC requires that the “Total Annual Expenses” percentage be calculated as a percentage of net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness and after taking into account any incentive fees payable during the period), rather than the total assets, including assets that have been funded with borrowed monies.

 

 

Example

 

The following example demonstrates the projected dollar amount of total cumulative expenses that would be incurred over various periods with respect to a hypothetical investment in our common stock. This example and the expenses in the table above should not be considered a representation of our future expenses, and actual expenses (including the cost of debt, if any, and other expenses) may be greater or less than those shown. In calculating the following expense amounts, we have assumed that our annual operating expenses remain at the levels set forth in the table above.

 

		1 Year				3 Years				5 Years				10 Years
You would pay the following expenses on a $1,000 investment, assuming a 5% annual return		$	187.80			$	481.39			$	691.82			$	992.69

 

The example and the expenses in the tables above should not be considered a representation of our future expenses, and actual expenses may be greater or lesser than those shown.

 

While the example assumes, as required by the applicable rules of the SEC, a 5% annual return, our performance will vary and may result in a return greater or less than 5%. The incentive fee under the Investment Management Agreement is unlikely to be significant assuming a 5% annual return and is not included in the example. This illustration assumes that we will not realize any capital gains (computed net of all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation) in any of the indicated time periods. If we achieve sufficient returns on our investments, including through the realization of capital gains, to trigger an incentive fee of a material amount, our distributions to our common stockholders and our expenses would likely be higher. If the 5% annual return were derived entirely from capital gains, you would pay expenses on a $1,000 investment of $160.48, $425.63, $630.59 and $961.87 over periods of one year, three years, five years and ten years, respectively. See “Investment Management and Administration Agreements — Investment Management Agreement — Examples of Incentive Fee Calculation” in the accompanying prospectus for additional information regarding the calculation of incentive fees.

 

In addition, while the example assumes reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions at net asset value, or NAV participants in our DRIP receive a number of shares of our common stock determined by dividing the total dollar amount of the distribution payable to a participant by the market price per share of our common stock at the close of trading on the valuation date for the distribution. This price may be at, above or below NAV. See “Dividend Reinvestment Plan” in the accompanying prospectus for additional information regarding our DRIP.

 

 

RISK FACTORS

 

Investing in our securities may be speculative and involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the risk factors incorporated by reference from our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q or Current Reports on Form 8-K we file after the date of this prospectus supplement, and all other information contained or incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus, and any free writing prospectus, as updated by our subsequent filings under the Exchange Act. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or not presently deemed material by us may also impair our operations and performance. Each of the risk factors could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In such case, our NAV and the trading price of our securities could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.

 

USE OF PROCEEDS

 

Sales of our common stock, if any, under this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be made in negotiated transactions that are deemed to be “at the market” as defined in Rule 415 under the Securities Act, including sales made directly on the Nasdaq or sales made to or through a market maker other than an exchange. There is no guarantee that there will be any sales of our common stock pursuant to this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. Actual sales, if any, of our common stock under this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be less than as set forth in this paragraph. Assuming the sale of $150.0 million worth of shares of common stock on the Nasdaq, we estimate that the net proceeds of this offering will be approximately $147.1 million after deducting the estimated sales commission payable to the Sales Agents and our estimated offering expenses.

 

We expect to use the net proceeds from this offering to fund investments in debt securities in accordance with our investment objective and for other general corporate purposes.

 

We intend to seek to invest the net proceeds received in this offering as promptly as practicable after receipt of such proceeds consistent with our investment objective. We anticipate that substantially all of the net proceeds from any offering of our securities will be used as described above within three to six months, depending on market conditions. We anticipate that the remainder will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes, including potential payments or distributions to shareholders. Pending such use, we intend to invest a portion of the net proceeds of this offering in short-term investments, such as cash and cash equivalents, which we expect will earn yields substantially lower than the interest income that we anticipate receiving in respect of investments in accordance with our investment objective.

 

 

PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

 

We have entered into an at market issuance sales agreement with Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and B. Riley Securities, Inc. (which we collectively refer to as the “Agents”), under which we may offer and sell from time to time our common stock having an aggregate offering price of up to $150.0 million. The Agents may act as agent on our behalf or purchase shares of our common stock as principal.

 

Sales, if any, of common stock under the at market sales agreement may be made in ordinary brokers’ transactions, to or through a market maker, on or through the Nasdaq Global Select Market or any other market venue where the securities may be traded, in the over-the-counter market, in privately negotiated transactions, or through a combination of any such methods of sale. The Agents may also sell our common stock by any other method permitted by law.

 

The securities may be sold at market prices prevailing at the time of sale, at prices related to such prevailing market prices or at negotiated prices.

 

We will designate the minimum amount of common stock to be sold through the sales agent, the time period during which sales are requested to be made, any limitation on the number of shares of common stock that may be sold in any one trading day and any minimum price below which sale may not be made. Subject to the terms and conditions of the at market issuance sales agreement, the Agents will use their commercially reasonable efforts consistent with their normal sales and trading practices to sell on our behalf all of the designated shares of common stock. We may instruct the Agents not to sell any common stock if the sales cannot be effected at or above the price designated by us in any such instruction. We or the Agents may suspend the offering of our common stock by notifying the other party.

 

The Agents will provide to us written confirmation no later than the opening of the trading day immediately following the trading day on which they have made sales under the at market issuance sales agreement. Each confirmation will include the number of shares of common stock sold on such day, the net sales proceeds and the compensation payable by us to the Agents. We will report at least quarterly the number of shares of common stock sold through the sales agent under the at market issuance sales agreement, the net proceeds to us (before expenses) and the compensation paid by us to the Agents in connection with the sales of the shares of common stock.

 

We will pay the Agents a commission of 1.75% of the gross sales price per share of common stock sold through the Agents under the at market issuance sales agreement. We have also agreed to reimburse the Agents for certain of their expenses.

 

Settlement of any sales of common stock will occur on second business day following the date on which such sales were made (or such earlier day as is industry practice for regular-way trading). There is no arrangement for funds to be received in an escrow, trust or similar arrangement. Sales of our common stock as contemplated in this prospectus supplement will be settled through the facilities of The Depository Trust Company or by such other means as we and the sales agents may agree.

 

The offering of our common stock pursuant to the equity distribution agreement will terminate upon the earlier of (i) the sale of all of our shares of common stock subject to the equity distribution agreement, or (ii) termination of the equity distribution agreement by us or by the Agents as provided therein.

 

In connection with the sale of the shares of common stock on our behalf, the Agents may be deemed to be “underwriters” within the meaning of the Securities Act, and the compensation paid to the Agents may be deemed to be underwriting commissions or discounts.

 

We have agreed to provide indemnification and contribution to the Agents against certain liabilities, including civil liabilities under the Securities Act.

 

 

LEGAL MATTERS

 

Certain legal matters regarding the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus supplement will be passed upon for us by Dechert LLP. Certain legal matters in connection with the shares of common stock offered hereby will be passed upon the Agents by Ropes & Gray LLP.

 

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

The consolidated financial statements of Horizon Technology Finance Corporation as of December 31, 2022 and 2021 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2022 incorporated in this Prospectus by reference from the Horizon Technology Finance Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 have been audited by RSM US LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report thereon, incorporated herein by reference, and have been incorporated in this Prospectus supplement and Registration Statement in reliance upon such report and upon the authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

 

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

 

This prospectus supplement is part of a registration statement that we have filed with the SEC. Pursuant to the Small Business Credit Availability Act, we are allowed to “incorporate by reference” the information that we file with the SEC, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this prospectus supplement, and later information that we file with the SEC will automatically update and supersede this information.

 

We incorporate by reference the documents listed below and any future filings (including those made after the date of the filing of the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part) we will make with the SEC under Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act until the termination of the offering of the securities covered by this prospectus. However, information “furnished” by us under Item 2.02 or Item 7.01 of Form 8-K or other information “furnished” to the SEC which is not deemed “filed” is not incorporated by reference:

 

●

our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the SEC on February 28, 2022;

 

●

our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on May 2, 2023, and ended June 30, 2023, filed with the SEC on August 1, 2023;

 

●

our Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A, filed with the SEC on April 6, 2023 as amended and supplemented on April 11, 2023 and May 9, 2023;

 

●

our Current Reports on Form 8-K (other than information furnished rather than filed) filed with the SEC on February 23, 2023, February 24, 2023, February 28, 2023, March 13, 2023, May 2, 2023, May 25, 2023, May 25, 2023, May 30, 2023, June 5, 2023, June 28, 2023, June 30, 2023, July 5, 2023, and August 1, 2023; and

 

●

The description of our Common Stock referenced in our Registration Statement on Form N-2 (No. 333-165570), as filed with the SEC on March 19, 2010, including any amendment or report filed for the purpose of updating such description prior to the termination of the offering of the common stock registered hereby.

 

These documents may also be accessed on our website at www.horizontechfinance.com. Information contained in, or accessible through, our website is not part of this prospectus supplement.

 

You may request a copy of these filings (other than exhibits, unless the exhibits are specifically incorporated by reference into these documents) at no cost by writing or calling Investor Relations at the following address and telephone number.

 

Horizon Technology Finance Corporation
312 Farmington Avenue
Farmington, Connecticut 06032
(860) 676-8654

 

 

AVAILABLE INFORMATION

 

We have filed with the SEC a universal shelf registration statement on Form N-2, together with all amendments and related exhibits, under the Securities Act, with respect to our shares of common stock offered by this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. The registration statement contains additional information about us and our shares of common stock being offered by this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.

 

We file with or submit to the SEC annual, quarterly and current periodic reports, proxy statements and other information meeting the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. The SEC maintains a website that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information filed electronically by us with the SEC at www.sec.gov. Copies of these reports, proxy and information statements and other information may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov. We maintain a website at www.horizontechfinance.com and make all of our annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other publicly filed information available, free of charge, on or through our website. This information is also available, free of charge, by contacting us at 312 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut 06032, Attention: Investor Relations, or by calling us collect at (860) 676-8654. Information contained on, or that can be accessed through, our website is not incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus, and you should not consider such information to be part of this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus.

 

$350,000,000 

Horizon Technology Finance Corporation

 

Common Stock
Preferred Stock
Subscription Rights
Debt Securities
Warrants

 

We are a non-diversified closed-end management investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company (“BDC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). We are externally managed by Horizon Technology Finance Management LLC, a registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”). Our investment objective is to maximize our investment portfolio’s total return by generating current income from the debt investments we make and capital appreciation from the warrants we receive when making such debt investments. We make secured debt investments to development stage companies in the technology, life science, healthcare information and services and sustainability industries.

 

We may offer, from time to time, in one or more offerings or series, together or separately, up to $350,000,000 of our common stock, preferred stock, subscription rights, debt securities or warrants representing rights to purchase shares of our common stock, preferred stock or debt securities, which we refer to, collectively, as the “securities.”

 

We may sell our securities through underwriters or dealers, “at-the-market” to or through a market maker into an existing trading market or otherwise directly to one or more purchasers or through agents or through a combination of methods of sale. The identities of such underwriters, dealers, market makers or agents, as the case may be, will be described in one or more supplements to this prospectus. The securities may be offered at prices and on terms to be described in one or more supplements to this prospectus. In the event we offer common stock or warrants or rights to acquire such common stock hereunder, the offering price per share of our common stock less any underwriting commissions or discounts will not be less than the net asset value per share of our common stock at the time we make the offering except (1) in connection with the exercise of certain warrants, options or rights whose issuance has been approved by our stockholders at an exercise or conversion price not less than the market value of our common stock at the date of issuance (or, if no such market value exists, the net asset value per share of our common stock as of such date); (2) to the extent such an offer or sale is approved by our stockholders and by our board of directors (our “Board”); or (3) under such other circumstances as may be permitted under the 1940 Act or by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

 

Our common stock is listed on The Nasdaq Global Select Market (“Nasdaq”) under the symbol “HRZN”. In addition, our 4.875% Notes due 2026 trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “HTFB”. On June 28, 2021, the last reported sale price of a share of our common stock on Nasdaq was $17.24. The net asset value per share of our common stock at March 31, 2021 (the last date prior to the date of this prospectus on which we determined net asset value) was $11.07.

 

Shares of closed-end investment companies, including BDCs, frequently trade at a discount to their net asset value. If our shares trade at a discount to net asset value, it may increase the risk of loss for purchasers in an offering made pursuant to this prospectus or any related prospectus supplement. You should review carefully the risks and uncertainties, including the risk of leverage and dilution, described in the section titled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 11 of this prospectus or otherwise incorporated by reference herein and included in, or incorporated by reference into, the applicable prospectus supplement and in any free writing prospectuses we have authorized for use in connection with a specific offering, and under similar headings in the other documents that are incorporated by reference into this prospectus before investing in our securities.

 

This prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement contain important information you should know before investing in our securities and should be retained for future reference. We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information about us with the SEC. We maintain a website at www.horizontechfinance.com and intend to make all of the foregoing information available, free of charge, on or through our website. You may also obtain such information by contacting us at 312 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut 06032, or by calling us collect at (860) 676-8654. The SEC maintains a website at www.sec.gov where such information is available without charge. Information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference into this prospectus, and you should not consider information contained on our website to be part of this prospectus.

 

The individual securities in which we invest will not be rated by any rating agency. If they were, they would be rated as below investment grade or “junk.” Indebtedness of below investment grade quality has predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal.

 

Neither the SEC nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

This prospectus may not be used to consummate sales of securities unless accompanied by a prospectus supplement.

 

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The date of this prospectus is          , 2021

 

 

You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus or any accompanying supplement to this prospectus. We have not authorized any other person to provide you with different information. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. We are not making an offer to sell these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. This prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement do not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any security other than the registered securities to which they relate. You should assume that the information in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date of this prospectus. Our business, financial condition and prospects may have changed since that date. We will update this prospectus to reflect material changes to the information contained herein.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

		Page
About this Prospectus		ii
Prospectus Summary		1
Offerings		6
Fees and Expenses		6
Selected Consolidated Financial and Other Data		10
Risk Factors		9
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements		12
Use of Proceeds		13
Price Range of Common Stock and Distributions		14
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		16
Senior Securities		17
Business		18
Portfolio Companies		19
Management		24
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions		12
Our Advisor		26
Investment Management and Administration Agreements		27
Control Persons and Principal Stockholders		28
Determination of Net Asset Value		29
Dividend Reinvestment Plan		31
Description of Our Securities		33
Description of Common Stock That We May Issue		34
Description of Preferred Stock That We May Issue		39
Description of Subscription Rights That We May Issue		40
Description of Debt Securities That We May Issue		41
Description of Warrants That We May Issue		51
Regulation		52
Brokerage Allocations and Other Practices		53
Plan of Distribution		54
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations		56
Custodian, Transfer Agent, Dividend Paying Agent and Registrar		64
Legal Matters		12
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm		64
Incorporation by Reference		64
Available Information		65

 

 

ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS

 

This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we have filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, using the “shelf” registration process. Under the shelf registration process, we may offer, from time to time, up to $350,000,000 of our common stock, preferred stock, subscription rights, debt securities or warrants representing rights to purchase shares of our common stock, preferred stock or debt securities on terms to be determined at the time of the offering.

 

This prospectus provides you with a general description of the securities that we may offer. Each time we use this prospectus to offer securities, we will provide a prospectus supplement that will contain specific information about the terms of that offering. We may also authorize one or more free writing prospectuses to be provided to you that may contain material information relating to these offerings. In a prospectus supplement or free writing prospectus, we may also add, update, or change any of the information contained in this prospectus or in the documents we have incorporated by reference into this prospectus. This prospectus, together with the applicable prospectus supplement, any related free writing prospectus, and the documents incorporated by reference into this prospectus and the applicable prospectus supplement, will include all material information relating to the applicable offering. Before buying any of the securities being offered, please carefully read this prospectus, any accompanying prospectus supplement, any free writing prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference into this prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement.

 

This prospectus may contain estimates and information concerning our industry, including market size and growth rates of the markets in which we participate, that are based on industry publications and other third-party reports. This information involves many assumptions and limitations, and you are cautioned not to give undue weight to these estimates. We have not independently verified the accuracy or completeness of the data contained in these industry publications and reports. The industry in which we operate is subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risk due to a variety of factors, including those described or referenced in the section titled “Risk Factors,” that could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in these publications and reports.

 

This prospectus includes summaries of certain provisions contained in some of the documents described in this prospectus, but reference is made to the actual documents for complete information. All of the summaries are qualified in their entirety by the actual documents. Copies of some of the documents referred to herein have been filed or incorporated by reference, or will be filed or incorporated by reference, as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part, and you may obtain copies of those documents as described in the section titled “Available Information.”

 

You should rely only on the information included or incorporated by reference into this prospectus, any prospectus supplement or in any free writing prospectus prepared by us or on our behalf or to which we have referred you. We have not authorized any dealer, salesperson or other person to provide you with different information or to make representations as to matters not stated in this prospectus, in any accompanying prospectus supplement or in any free writing prospectus prepared by us or on our behalf or to which we have referred you. We take no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. This prospectus, any accompanying prospectus supplement and any free writing prospectus prepared by us or on our behalf or to which we have referred you do not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities by any person in any jurisdiction where it is unlawful for that person to make such an offer or solicitation or to any person in any jurisdiction to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation. You should not assume that the information included or incorporated by reference into this prospectus, in any accompanying prospectus supplement or in any such free writing prospectus is accurate as of any date other than their respective dates. Our financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since any such date. To the extent required by law, we will amend or supplement the information contained or incorporated by reference into this prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement to reflect any material changes to such information subsequent to the date of the prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement and prior to the completion of any offering pursuant to the prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement.

 

 

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

 

This summary highlights some of the information included elsewhere in this prospectus or incorporated by reference. It is not complete and may not contain all of the information that you should consider before making your investment decision. You should carefully read the entire prospectus, the applicable prospectus supplement, and any related free writing prospectus, including the risks of investing in our securities discussed in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the applicable prospectus supplement and any related free writing prospectus, and under similar headings in the other documents that are incorporated by reference into this prospectus and the applicable prospectus supplement. Before making your investment decision, you should also carefully read the information incorporated by reference into this prospectus, including our financial statements and related notes, and the exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. Any yield information contained or incorporated by reference into this prospectus related to investments in our investment portfolio is not intended to approximate a return on your investment in us and does not take into account other aspects of our business, including our operating and other expenses, or other costs incurred by you in connection with your investment in us

 

In this prospectus, except where the context suggests otherwise, the terms:

 

•

“we,” “us,” “our,” “the Company” and “Horizon Technology Finance” refer to Horizon Technology Finance Corporation, a Delaware corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries;

•

The “Advisor” and the “Administrator” refer to Horizon Technology Finance Management LLC, a Delaware limited liability company;

•

“Key” refers to KeyBank National Association and “Key Facility” refers to the revolving credit facility with Key;

•

“NYL Noteholders” refers to several entities owned or affiliated with New York Life Insurance Company and  “NYL Facility” refers to the credit facility where the notes are issued to the NYL Noteholders;

•

“Credit Facilities” refers to collectively the Key Facility and the NYL Facility;

•

“2026 Notes” or “Debt Securities” refers to the $57.5 million aggregate principal amount of our 4.875% unsecured notes due 2026, which were issued by us in March 2021; and

•

“2019-1 Securitization” refers to the $160.0 million securitization of secured loans we completed on August 13, 2019.

 

Our company

 

We are a specialty finance company that lends to and invests in development-stage companies in the technology, life science, healthcare information and services and sustainability industries, which we refer to as our “Target Industries.” Our investment objective is to maximize our investment portfolio’s total return by generating current income from the debt investments we make and capital appreciation from the warrants we receive when making such debt investments. We are focused on making secured debt investments, which we refer to as “Venture Loans,” to venture capital and private equity backed companies and publicly traded companies in our Target Industries, which we refer to as “Venture Lending.” Our debt investments are typically secured by first liens or first liens behind a secured revolving line of credit, or collectively, “Senior Term Loans.” Venture Lending is typically characterized by (1) the making of a secured debt investment after a venture capital or equity investment in the portfolio company has been made, which investment provides a source of cash to fund the portfolio company’s debt service obligations under the Venture Loan, (2) the senior priority of the Venture Loan which requires repayment of the Venture Loan prior to the equity investors realizing a return on their capital, (3) the amortization of the Venture Loan and (4) the lender’s receipt of warrants or other success fees with the making of the Venture Loan.

 

 

 

We are an externally managed, closed-end, non-diversified management investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company, or BDC, under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, or the 1940 Act. In addition, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we have elected to be treated as a regulated investment company, or RIC, under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code. As a BDC, we are required to comply with regulatory requirements, including limitations on our use of debt. We are permitted to, and expect to, finance our investments through borrowings. Under Section 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act we have received approval from our stockholders to reduce our asset coverage requirement from 200% to 150%. The amount of leverage that we may employ will depend on our assessment of market conditions and other factors at the time of any proposed borrowing. As a RIC, we generally are not subject to pay corporate-level income taxes on our investment company taxable income, determined without regard to any deductions for dividends paid, and our net capital gain that we distribute as dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to our stockholders as long as we meet certain source-of-income, distribution, asset diversification and other requirements.

 

We are externally managed and advised by our Advisor. Our Advisor manages our day-to-day operations and also provides all administrative services necessary for us to operate.

 

Our advisor

 

Our investment activities are managed by our Advisor, and we expect to continue to benefit from our Advisor’s ability to identify attractive investment opportunities, conduct diligence on and value prospective investments, negotiate investments and manage our portfolio of investments. In addition to the experience gained from the years that they have worked together both at our Advisor and prior to the formation of our Advisor, the members of our investment team have broad lending backgrounds, with substantial experience at a variety of commercial finance companies, technology banks and private debt funds, and have developed a broad network of contacts within the venture capital and private equity community. This network of contacts provides a principal source of investment opportunities.

 

Our Advisor is led by six senior managers including Robert D. Pomeroy, Jr., our Chief Executive Officer, Gerald A. Michaud, our President, Daniel R. Trolio, our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, John C. Bombara, our Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, Daniel S. Devorsetz, our Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer and Diane Earle, our Senior Vice President and Chief Credit Officer.

 

Our strategy

 

Our investment objective is to maximize our investment portfolio’s total return by generating current income from the loans we make and capital appreciation from the warrants we receive when making such debt investments. To further implement our business strategy, we expect our Advisor to continue to employ the following core strategies:

 

•

Structured investments in the venture capital and private and public equity markets. We make loans to development-stage companies within our Target Industries typically in the form of secured loans. The secured debt structure provides a lower risk strategy, as compared to equity or unsecured debt investments, to participate in the emerging technology markets because the debt structures we typically utilize provide collateral against the downside risk of loss, provide return of capital in a much shorter timeframe through current-pay interest and amortization of principal and have a senior position to equity in the borrower’s capital structure in the case of insolvency, wind down or bankruptcy. Unlike venture capital and private equity investments, our investment returns and return of our capital do not require equity investment exits such as mergers and acquisitions or initial public offerings. Instead, we receive returns on our debt investments primarily through regularly scheduled payments of principal and interest and, if necessary, liquidation of the collateral supporting the debt investment upon a default. Only the potential gains from warrants depend upon equity investment exits.

•

“Enterprise value” lending. We and our Advisor take an enterprise value approach to structuring and underwriting loans. Enterprise value includes the implied valuation based upon recent equity capital invested as well as the intrinsic value of the applicable portfolio company’s particular technology, service or customer base. We secure our lien position against the enterprise value of each portfolio company.

•

Creative products with attractive risk-adjusted pricing. Each of our existing and prospective portfolio companies has its own unique funding needs for the capital provided from the proceeds of our Venture Loans. These funding needs include funds for additional development “runways”, funds to hire or retain sales staff or funds to invest in research and development in order to reach important technical milestones in advance of raising additional equity. Our loans include current-pay interest, commitment fees, end-of-term payments, or ETPs, pre-payment fees, success fees and non-utilization fees. We believe we have developed pricing tools, structuring techniques and valuation metrics that satisfy our portfolio companies’ financing requirements while mitigating risk and maximizing returns on our investments.

 

 

	•	Opportunity for enhanced returns. To enhance our debt investment portfolio returns, in addition to interest and fees, we frequently obtain warrants to purchase the equity of our portfolio companies as additional consideration for making debt investments. The warrants we obtain generally include a “cashless exercise” provision to allow us to exercise these rights without requiring us to make any additional cash investment. Obtaining warrants in our portfolio companies has allowed us to participate in the equity appreciation of our portfolio companies, which we expect will enable us to generate higher returns for our investors.
	•	Direct origination. We originate transactions directly with technology, life science, healthcare information and services and sustainability companies. These transactions are referred to our Advisor from a number of sources, including referrals from, or direct solicitation of, venture capital and private equity firms, portfolio company management teams, legal firms, accounting firms, investment banks, portfolio company advisors and other lenders that represent companies within our Target Industries. Our Advisor has been the sole or lead originator in substantially all transactions in which the funds it manages have invested.

•

Disciplined and balanced underwriting and portfolio management. We use a disciplined underwriting process that includes obtaining information validation from multiple sources, extensive knowledge of our Target Industries, comparable industry valuation metrics and sophisticated financial analysis related to development-stage companies. Our Advisor’s due diligence on investment prospects includes obtaining and evaluating information on the prospective portfolio company’s technology, market opportunity, management team, fund raising history, investor support, valuation considerations, financial condition and projections. We seek to balance our investment portfolio to reduce the risk of down market cycles associated with any particular industry or sector, development-stage or geographic area by quarterly reviewing each criteria and, in the event there is an overconcentration, seeking investment opportunities to reduce such overconcentration. Our Advisor employs a “hands on” approach to portfolio management, requiring private portfolio companies to provide monthly financial information and to participate in regular updates on performance and future plans. For public companies, our Advisor typically relies on publicly reported quarterly financials.

•

Use of leverage. We use leverage to increase returns on equity through our Credit Facilities, through our 2026 Notes and through our 2019-1 Securitization. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and capital resources” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about our use of leverage. In addition, we may issue additional debt securities or preferred stock in one or more series in the future.

 

Market opportunity

 

We focus our investments primarily in our Target Industries. The technology sectors we focus on include communications, networking, data storage, software, cloud computing, semiconductor, internet and media and consumer-related technologies. The life science sectors we focus on include biotechnology, drug discovery, drug delivery, bioinformatics and medical devices. The healthcare information and services sectors we focus on include diagnostics, electronic medical record services and software and other healthcare related services and technologies that improve efficiency and quality of administered healthcare. The sustainability sectors we focus on include alternative energy, power management, energy efficiency, green building materials and waste recycling. We refer to all of these companies as “technology-related” companies because the companies are developing or offering goods and services to businesses and consumers which utilize scientific knowledge, including techniques, skills, methods, devices and processes, to solve problems. We intend, under normal market conditions, to invest at least 80% of the value of our total assets in such companies.

 

We believe that Venture Lending has the potential to achieve enhanced returns that are attractive notwithstanding the high degree of risk associated with lending to development-stage companies. Potential benefits include:

 

•

interest rates that typically exceed rates that would be available to portfolio companies if they could borrow in traditional commercial financing transactions;

•

the debt investment support provided by cash proceeds from equity capital invested by venture capital and private equity firms or access to public equity markets to access capital;

 

 

	•	relatively rapid amortization of principal;
	•	senior ranking to equity and collateralization of debt investments to minimize potential loss of capital; and

•

potential equity appreciation through warrants.

 

We believe that Venture Lending also provides an attractive financing source for portfolio companies, their management teams and their equity capital investors, as it:

 

•

is typically less dilutive to the equity holders than additional equity financing;

•

extends the time period during which a portfolio company can operate before seeking additional equity capital or pursuing a sale transaction or other liquidity event; and

•

allows portfolio companies to better match cash sources with uses.

 

Competitive strengths

 

We believe that we, together with our Advisor, possess significant competitive strengths, which include the following:

 

•

Consistently execute commitments and close transactions.  Our Advisor and its senior management and investment professionals have an extensive track record of originating, underwriting and managing Venture Loans. Our Advisor and its predecessor have directly originated, underwritten and managed Venture Loans with an aggregate original principal amount over $2.0 billion to more than 270 companies since operations commenced in 2004.

•

Robust direct origination capabilities.  Our Advisor has significant experience originating Venture Loans in our Target Industries. This experience has given our Advisor a deep knowledge of our Target Industries and an extensive base of transaction sources and references.

•

Highly experienced and cohesive management team.  Most of our Advisor’s senior management team of experienced professionals has been together since our inception. This consistency allows companies, their management teams and their investors to rely on consistent and predictable service, loan products and terms and underwriting standard.

•

Relationships with venture capital and private equity investors.  Our Advisor has developed strong relationships with venture capital and private equity firms and their partners.

•

Well-known brand name.  Our Advisor has originated Venture Loans to more than 270 companies in our Target Industries under the “Horizon Technology Finance” brand.

 

Our portfolio

 

From the commencement of operations of our predecessor on March 4, 2008 through March 31, 2021, we funded debt investments to 270 portfolio companies and invested $2.0 billion in debt investments. As of March 31, 2021, our debt investment portfolio consisted of 37 debt investments with an aggregate fair value of $361.8 million. As of March 31, 2021, 97.4%, or $352.2 million, of our debt investment portfolio at fair value consisted of Senior Term Loans. As of March 31, 2021, our net assets were $217.7 million, and all of our debt investments were secured by all or a portion of the tangible and intangible assets of the applicable portfolio company. The debt investments in our portfolio are generally not rated by any rating agency. If the individual debt investments in our portfolio were rated, they would be rated below “investment grade”. Debt investments that are unrated or rated below investment grade are sometimes referred to as “junk bonds” and have predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal.

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, our dollar-weighted annualized yield on average debt investments was 15.2%. We calculate the dollar-weighted yield on average debt investments for any period as (1) total investment income during the period divided by (2) the average of the fair value of debt investments outstanding on (a) the last day of the calendar month immediately preceding the first day of the period and (b) the last day of each calendar month during the period. The dollar-weighted annualized yield on average debt investments is higher than what investors will realize because it does not reflect our expenses or any sales load paid by investors.

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, our investment portfolio had an overall total yield of 14.4%. We calculate the dollar-weighted annualized yield on average investment type for any period as (1) total related investment income during the period divided by (2) the average of the fair value of the investment type outstanding on (a) the last day of the calendar month immediately preceding the first day of the period and (b) the last day of each calendar month during the period. The dollar-weighted annualized yield on average investment type is higher than what investors will realize because it does not reflect our expenses or any sales load paid by investors.

 

 

See “Business” in Part I, Item 1 in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about us.

 

Risk factors

 

Our business is subject to numerous risks, as described in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the applicable prospectus supplement and in any free writing prospectuses we have authorized for use in connection with a specific offering, and under similar headings in the documents that are incorporated by reference into this prospectus, including the section titled “Risk Factors” included in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, in our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as well as in any of our subsequent SEC filings.

 

Company information

 

Our administrative and executive offices and those of our Advisor are located at 312 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut 06032, and our telephone number is (860) 676-8654. Our corporate website is located at www.horizontechfinance.com. Information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference into this prospectus, and you should not consider information contained on our website to be part of this prospectus.

 

 

OFFERINGS

 

We may offer, from time to time, up to $350,000,000 of our common stock, preferred stock, subscription rights, debt securities and/or warrants representing rights to purchase shares of our common stock, preferred stock or debt securities on terms to be determined at the time of the offering. Any debt securities, preferred stock, warrants and subscription rights offered by means of this prospectus may be convertible or exchangeable into shares of our common stock, on terms to be determined at the time of the offering. We will offer our securities at prices and on terms to be set forth in one or more supplements to this prospectus and any related free writing prospectus.

 

We may offer our securities directly to one or more purchasers, including existing stockholders in a rights offering, through agents that we designate from time to time or to or through underwriters or dealers. The prospectus supplement relating to each offering will identify any agents or underwriters involved in the sale of our securities and will set forth any applicable purchase price, fee, commission or discount arrangement between us and our agents or underwriters or among our underwriters or the basis upon which such amount may be calculated. See “Plan of Distribution.” We may not sell any of our securities through agents, underwriters or dealers without delivery of a prospectus supplement describing the method and terms of the offering of our securities.

 

Set forth below is additional information regarding offerings of our securities:

 

Use of proceeds

We intend to use the net proceeds from selling our securities to make new investments in portfolio companies in accordance with our investment objective and strategies as described in this prospectus and for working capital and general corporate purposes.

 

Listing

Our common stock is traded on Nasdaq under the symbol “HRZN.” Our 2026 Notes trade on the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, under the ticker symbol “HTFB.”

 

Distributions

We intend to continue to pay monthly distributions to our stockholders out of assets legally available for distribution. Our distributions, if any, will be determined by our Board. Our ability to declare distributions depends on our earnings, our overall financial condition (including our liquidity position), maintenance of RIC status and such other factors as our Board may deem relevant from time to time.

 

To the extent our taxable earnings fall below the total amount of our distributions for any given fiscal year, a portion of those distributions may be deemed to be a return of capital to our common stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Thus, the source of a distribution to our stockholders may be the original capital invested by the stockholder rather than our income or gains. Stockholders should read any written disclosure accompanying a distribution payment carefully and should not assume that the source of any distribution is our ordinary income or gains.

 

Taxation

We have elected to be treated as a RIC. Accordingly, we generally will not incur corporate-level income taxes on any investment company taxable income determined without regard to any deductions for dividends paid and net capital gains that we distribute as dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to our stockholders. To maintain RIC tax treatment, we must meet specified source-of-income and asset diversification requirements and distribute annually an amount generally equal to 90% of our investment company taxable income, determined without regard to any deduction for dividends paid.

 

Leverage

We borrow funds to make additional investments. We use this practice, which is known as “leverage,” to attempt to increase returns to our stockholders, but it involves significant risks. See “Risk Factors.” As of this prospectus, we are allowed to borrow amounts such that our asset coverage, as calculated pursuant to the 1940 Act, equals at least 150% after such borrowing (i.e., we are able to borrow up to two dollars for every dollar we have in assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities issued by us). For more information, see “Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and  “Item 1A — Risk Factors — General Risk Factors — We borrow money, which magnifies the potential for gain or loss on amounts invested and may increase the risk of investing in us” in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

 

Trading at a discount

Shares of closed-end investment companies, including BDCs, frequently trade at a discount to their net asset value. This risk is separate and distinct from the risk that our net asset value per share may decline. We cannot predict whether our common stock will trade above, at or below net asset value.

 

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

We have adopted a DRIP for our stockholders. The dividend reinvestment plan is an “opt out” DRIP. As a result, distributions to our stockholders are automatically reinvested in additional shares of our common stock, unless a stockholder specifically “opts out” of the DRIP so as to receive cash distributions. Stockholders who receive distributions in the form of stock will generally be subject to the same federal, state and local tax consequences as stockholders who elect to receive their distributions in cash. See “Dividend Reinvestment Plan.”

 

Sales of common stock below net asset value

In the event we offer common stock or warrants or rights to acquire such common stock, the offering price per share of our common stock less any underwriting commissions or discounts will not be less than the net asset value per share of our common stock at the time we make the offering except (1) in connection with the exercise of certain warrants, options or rights whose issuance has been approved by our stockholders at an exercise or conversion price not less than the market value of our common stock at the date of issuance (or, if no such market value exists, the net asset value per share of our common stock as of such date); (2) to the extent such an offer or sale is approved by stockholders holding a majority of our outstanding securities and our Board; or (3) under such other circumstances as may be permitted under the 1940 Act or by the SEC. For purposes of (2) above, a “majority” of outstanding securities is defined in the 1940 Act as (i) 67% or more of the voting securities present at a stockholders’ meeting if the holders of more than 50% of our outstanding voting securities are present or represented by proxy; or (ii) 50% of our outstanding voting securities, whichever is less.

 

Available information		We are required to file periodic reports, current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. This information is available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You may also obtain such information by contacting us at 312 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut 06032 or by calling us at (860) 676-8654. We intend to provide much of the same information on our website at www.horizontechfinance.com. Information contained on our website is not part of this prospectus or any prospectus supplement and should not be relied upon as such.
Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference		This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we have filed with the SEC. In accordance with the Small Business Credit Availability Act, or SBCAA, we are allowed to “incorporate by reference” the information that we file with the SEC, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is considered to comprise a part of this prospectus from the date we file that information. Any reports filed by us with the SEC subsequent to the date of this prospectus until we have sold all of the securities offered by this prospectus or the offering is otherwise terminated will automatically update and, where applicable, supersede any information contained in this prospectus or incorporated by reference into this prospectus. See “Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference” in this prospectus.

 

 

FEES AND EXPENSES

 

The following table is intended to assist you in understanding the costs and expenses that an investor will bear directly or indirectly. However, we caution you that some of the percentages indicated in the table below are estimates and may vary. The following table and example should not be considered a representation of our future expenses. Actual expenses may be greater or less than shown. Except where the context suggests otherwise, whenever this prospectus contains a reference to fees or expenses paid by “you” or “us” or that “we” will pay fees or expenses, stockholders will indirectly bear such fees or expenses as investors in the Company.

 

Stockholder Transaction Expenses
Sales Load (as a percentage of offering price)			—	%(1)
Offering Expenses (as a percentage of offering price)			—	%(2)
Dividend Reinvestment Plan Fees			—	%(3)
Total Stockholder Transaction Expenses (as a percentage of offering price)			—	%
Annual Expenses (as a Percentage of Net Assets Attributable to Common Shares)(4)
Base Management Fees			4.02	%(5)
Incentive Fees Payable Under the Investment Management Agreement			3.17	%(6)
Interest Payments on Borrowed Funds			5.44	%(7)
Other Expenses (estimated for the current fiscal year)			1.72	%(8)
Total Annual Expenses			14.35	%(9)

 

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(1)	In the event that securities to which this prospectus relates are sold to or through underwriters or agents, a corresponding prospectus supplement will disclose the applicable sales load.
(2)	In the event that we conduct an offering of any of our securities, a corresponding prospectus supplement will disclose the estimated offering expenses because they will be ultimately borne by the stockholders.
(3)	The expenses of the DRIP are included in “Other Expenses” in the table. For instance, if a participant directs the plan administrator to sell part or all of the shares held by the plan administrator in the participant’s account and to remit the proceeds of such sale to the participant, then the plan administrator is authorized to deduct a $15.00 transaction fee plus a $0.10 per share trading fee from such proceeds. See “Dividend Reinvestment Plan.”
(4)	Net Assets Attributable to Common Stock is based on our net assets at March 31, 2021.
(5)	Our base management fee under the Investment Management Agreement is based on our gross assets, less cash and cash equivalents, which includes assets acquired using leverage, including any leverage incurred under this prospectus, and is payable monthly in arrears. The management fee referenced in the table above is based on our gross assets, less cash and cash equivalents, of $388 million as of March 31, 2021, including assets to be or will be acquired using leverage over the next twelve months, which management estimates will be in the amount of $117 million. See Note 3 “Related Party Transactions—Investment Management Agreement” of our Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
(6)	The incentive payable to our Advisor represents our estimated annual expense incurred under the first part of the incentive fee payable under the Investment Management Agreement over the next twelve months. As of March 31, 2021, our cumulative realized capital gains and unrealized capital appreciation did not exceed our cumulative realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation. Given our strategy of investing primarily in Venture Loans, which are fixed-income assets, we believe it is unlikely that our cumulative realized capital gains and unrealized capital appreciation will exceed our cumulative realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation in the next twelve months. Consequently, we do not expect to incur any Incentive Fee Capital Gains during the next twelve months. As we cannot predict the occurrence of any capital gains from the portfolio, we have assumed no Incentive Fee Capital Gains. See Note 3 “Related Party Transactions—Investment Management Agreement” of our Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
(7)	Interest payments on borrowed funds represent our estimated annual interest payments on borrowed funds based on current debt levels as adjusted for projected increases in debt levels over the next twelve months.

(8)

Includes our overhead expenses, including payments under the Administration Agreement, based on our allocable portion of overhead and other expenses incurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations under the Administration Agreement. See Note 3 “Related Party Transactions— Administration Agreement” of our Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. “Other Expenses” are based on estimated amounts to be incurred during the current fiscal year.

(9)

“Total Annual Expenses” as a percentage of consolidated net assets attributable to common stock are higher than the total annual expenses percentage would be for a company that is not leveraged. We borrow money to leverage our net assets and increase our total assets. The SEC requires that the “Total Annual Expenses” percentage be calculated as a percentage of net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness and after taking into account any incentive fees payable during the period), rather than the total assets, including assets that have been funded with borrowed monies.

 

 

Example

 

The following example demonstrates the projected dollar amount of total cumulative expenses that would be incurred over various periods with respect to a hypothetical investment in our common stock. In calculating the following expense amounts, we have assumed that our annual operating expenses remain at the levels set forth in the table above. In the event that shares to which this prospectus relates are sold to or through underwriters or agents, a corresponding prospectus supplement will restate this example to reflect the applicable sales load and estimated offering expenses.

 

		1 Year				3 Years				5 Years				10 Years
You would pay the following expenses on a $1,000 investment, assuming a 5% annual return (assumes no return from net realized capital gains or net unrealized capital appreciation)		$	136.79			$	373.20			$	567.47			$	914.83

 

The example and the expenses in the tables above should not be considered a representation of our future expenses, and actual expenses may be greater or lesser than those shown.

 

While the example assumes, as required by the applicable rules of the SEC, a 5% annual return, our performance will vary and may result in a return greater or less than 5%. The incentive fee under the Investment Management Agreement is unlikely to be significant assuming a 5% annual return and is not included in the example. This illustration assumes that we will not realize any capital gains (computed net of all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation) in any of the indicated time periods. If we achieve sufficient returns on our investments, including through the realization of capital gains, to trigger an incentive fee of a material amount, our distributions to our common stockholders and our expenses would likely be higher.

 

The following example demonstrates the projected dollar amount of total cumulative expenses that would be incurred over various periods with respect to a hypothetical investment in our common stock assuming a 5% annual return derived entirely from capital gains.

 

		1 Year				3 Years				5 Years				10 Years
You would pay the following expenses on a $1,000 investment, assuming a 5% annual return (assumes return from only realized capital gains and thus subject to the capital gains incentive fee)		$	117.43			$	327.59			$	508.66			$	859.12

 

In addition, while the examples assume reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions at net asset value, participants in our DRIP receive a number of shares of our common stock determined by dividing the total dollar amount of the distribution payable to a participant by the market price per share of our common stock at the close of trading on the valuation date for the distribution. This price may be at, above or below net asset value. See “Dividend Reinvestment Plan” for additional information regarding our DRIP.

 

 

SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA

 

The information in “Item 6. Selected Consolidated Financial Data” of our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, “Part I — Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities” of our most recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q and “Part I — Consolidated Statements of Operations” of our most recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q is incorporated by reference herein.

 

 

RISK FACTORS

 

Investing in our securities involves a high degree of risk. Before deciding whether to invest in our securities, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the applicable prospectus supplement and any related free writing prospectus, and discussed in the section titled “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent filings we have made with the SEC that are incorporated by reference into this prospectus or any prospectus supplement, together with other information in this prospectus, the documents incorporated by reference into this prospectus or any prospectus supplement, and any free writing prospectus that we may authorize for use in connection with this offering. The risks described in these documents are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties that we are unaware of, or that we currently believe are not material, may also become important factors that adversely affect our business. Past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods. If any of these risks actually occurs, our business, reputation, financial condition, results of operations, revenue, and future prospects could be seriously harmed. This could cause our net asset value and the trading price of our securities to decline, resulting in a loss of all or part of your investment. Please also read carefully the section titled “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in this prospectus.

 

 

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This prospectus, including the documents we incorporate by reference herein, contains, and any applicable prospectus supplement or free writing prospectus, including the documents we incorporate by reference therein, contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions and expectations of our future performance, taking into account all information currently available to us. These beliefs, assumptions and expectations can change as a result of many possible events or factors, not all of which are known to us or are within our control. If a change occurs, our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations may vary materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements but advise you to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through reports that we may file in the future with the SEC, including annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements or historical performance:

 

•

our future operating results, including the performance of our existing debt investments, warrants and other investments;

 

•

the introduction, withdrawal, success and timing of business initiatives and strategies;

 

•

general economic and political trends and other external factors, including the current COVID-19 pandemic;

 

•

the relative and absolute investment performance and operations of our Advisor;

 

•

the impact of increased competition;

 

•

the impact of investments we intend to make and future acquisitions and divestitures;

 

•

the unfavorable resolution of legal proceedings;

 

•

our business prospects and the prospects of our portfolio companies, including our and their ability to achieve our respective objectives as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic;

 

•

the impact, extent and timing of technological changes and the adequacy of intellectual property protection;

 

•

our regulatory structure and tax status;

 

•

our ability to qualify and maintain qualification as a RIC and as a BDC;

 

•

the adequacy of our cash resources and working capital;

 

•

the timing of cash flows, if any, from the operations of our portfolio companies;

 

•

the impact of interest rate volatility on our results, particularly if we use leverage as part of our investment strategy;

 

•

the ability of our portfolio companies to achieve their objectives;

 

•

the impact of legislative and regulatory actions and reforms and regulatory, supervisory or enforcement actions of government agencies relating to us or our Advisor;

 

•

our contractual arrangements and relationships with third parties;

 

•

our ability to access capital and any future financings by us;

 

•

the ability of our Advisor to attract and retain highly talented professionals; and

 

•

the impact of changes to tax legislation and, generally, our tax position.

 

This prospectus, and other statements that we may make, may contain forward-looking statements with respect to future financial or business performance, strategies or expectations. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as “trend,” “opportunity,” “pipeline,” “believe,” “comfortable,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “current,” “intention,” “estimate,” “position,” “assume,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “outlook,” “continue,” “remain,” “maintain,” “sustain,” “seek,” “achieve” and similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or similar expressions.

 

Any forward-looking statement made by us in this prospectus speaks only as of the date on which we make it. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. You are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through reports that we have filed or in the future may file with the SEC, including our annual reports on Form 10-K, registration statements on Form N-2, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and definitive proxy statements on Schedule 14A. Under Sections 27A(b)(2)(B) of the Securities Act and Section 21E(b)(2)(B) of the Exchange Act, the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 do not apply to statements made in connection with any offering of securities pursuant to this prospectus or in the periodic reports we file under the Exchange Act.

 

 

USE OF PROCEEDS

 

Unless otherwise specified in any prospectus supplement accompanying this prospectus, we intend to use the net proceeds from the sale of our securities for investment in portfolio companies in accordance with our investment objective and strategies as described in this prospectus and for working capital and general corporate purposes. We may also use a portion of the net proceeds from the sale of our securities to repay amounts outstanding under the Credit Facilities. We may also use a portion of the net proceeds to redeem the 2026 Notes after they are subject to optional redemption in March 2023. The 2026 Notes bear interest at an annual rate of 4.875% and otherwise mature on March 30, 2026. The supplement to this prospectus relating to an offering will more fully identify the use of proceeds from such offering. We estimate that it will take up to six months for us to substantially invest the net proceeds of any offering made pursuant to this prospectus, depending on the availability of attractive opportunities and market conditions. However, we can offer no assurances that we will be able to achieve this goal.

 

Pending such use, we will invest the remaining net proceeds of this offering primarily in cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities and high-quality debt investments that mature in one year or less from the date of investment. These temporary investments may have lower yields than our other investments and, accordingly, may result in lower distributions, if any, during such period. See “Business—Regulation—Temporary Investments” in Part I, Item 1 in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about temporary investments we may make while waiting to make longer-term investments in pursuit of our investment objective.

 

 

PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK AND DISTRIBUTIONS

 

Our common stock is traded on Nasdaq, under the symbol “HRZN”. The following table sets forth, for each fiscal quarter since January 1, 2019, the range of high and low closing sales price of our common stock, the premium or discount of the closing sales price to our NAV and the distributions declared per share by us.

 

						Closing Sales Price								Premium/ Discount of High Sales Price to				Premium/ Discount of Low Sales Price to				Distributions Declared Per
Period		NAV(1)				High				Low				NAV(2)				NAV(2)				Share(3)
Year ended December 31, 2021
Second Quarter(4)		$	*			$	17.83			$	14.57				*				*			$	0.30
First Quarter		$	11.07			$	15.01			$	12.60				36	%			14	%		$	0.30
Year ended December 31, 2020
Fourth Quarter		$	11.02			$	13.33			$	11.30				21	%			3	%		$	0.30
Third Quarter		$	11.17			$	12.48			$	10.87				12	%			(3	)%		$	0.30
Second Quarter		$	11.64			$	11.95			$	7.09				3	%			(39	)%		$	0.30
First Quarter		$	11.48			$	13.69			$	5.25				19	%			(54	)%		$	0.35
Year ended December 31, 2019
Fourth Quarter		$	11.83			$	12.93			$	11.67				9	%			(1	)%		$	0.30
Third Quarter		$	11.67			$	12.23			$	11.80				5	%			1	%		$	0.30
Second Quarter		$	11.60			$	12.05			$	11.62				4	%			—	%		$	0.30
First Quarter		$	11.55			$	13.41			$	11.05				16	%			(4	)%		$	0.30

 

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(1)

NAV per share determined as of the last day in the relevant quarter and therefore may not reflect the NAV per share on the date of the high and low sales prices. The NAVs shown are based on outstanding shares at the end of each period.

(2)

Calculated as of the respective high or low closing sales price divided by the quarter end NAV.

(3)

We have adopted an “opt out” DRIP for our common stockholders. As a result, if we declare a distribution, then stockholders’ cash distributions are automatically reinvested in additional shares of our common stock, unless they specifically opt out of the DRIP so as to receive cash distributions.

(4)

Through June 28, 2021.

 

*

Not yet determined at the time of filing.

 

The last reported price for our common stock on June 28, 2021 was $17.24 per share. Our NAV per share on March 31, 2021 (the last date prior to the date of this prospectus on which we determined NAV) was $11.07. The closing sales price of our shares on Nasdaq on that date was $14.57, which represented a 32% premium to NAV per share. As of June 28, 2021 we had 18 stockholders of record, which did not include stockholders for whom shares are held in nominee or “street” name.

 

Shares of BDCs may trade at a market price that is less than the NAV that is attributable to those shares. The possibility that our shares of common stock will trade at a discount from NAV or at a premium that is unsustainable over the long term is separate and distinct from the risk that our NAV will decrease. It is not possible to predict whether our shares will trade at, above or below NAV in the future.

 

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

On April 23, 2021, our Board extended a previously authorized stock repurchase plan which allows us to repurchase up to $5.0 million of our outstanding common stock. Unless extended by our Board, the repurchase program will expire on the earlier of June 30, 2022 and the repurchase of $5.0 million of common stock. The following table provides information regarding our purchases of our common stock for each quarter since the announcement of the stock repurchase plan through the quarter ended March 31, 2021:

 

Period		Total Number of Shares Purchased				Average Price Paid perShare				Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs				Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
		(In thousands, except share and per share data)
October 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015			113,382			$	11.53				113,382			$	3,693
January 1, 2016 through March 31, 2016			—			$	—				—			$	3,693
April 1, 2016 through June 30, 2016			—			$	—				—			$	3,693
July 1, 2016 through September 30, 2016			1,319			$	11.54				1,319			$	3,678
October 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016			46,841			$	10.63				46,841			$	3,180
January 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017			—			$	—				—			$	3,180
April 1, 2017 through June 30, 2017			—			$	—				—			$	3,180
July 1, 2017 through September 30, 2017			5,923			$	9.97				5,923			$	3,121
October 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
January 1, 2018 through March 31, 2018			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
April 1, 2018 through June 30, 2018			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
July 1, 2018 through September 30, 2018			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
October 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
January 1, 2019 through March 31, 2019			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
April 1, 2019 through June 30, 2019			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
July 1, 2019 through September 30, 2019			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
October 1, 2019 through December 31, 2019			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
January 1, 2020 through March 31, 2020			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
April 1, 2020 through June 30, 2020			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
July 1, 2020 through September 30, 2020			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
October 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
January 1, 2021 through March 31, 2021			—			$	—				—			$	3,121
Total			167,465			$	11.22				167,465

 

Any shares repurchased by us may have the effect of maintaining the market price of our common stock or retarding a decline in the market price of the common stock, and, as a result, the price of our common stock may be higher than the price that otherwise might exist in the open market. In addition, as any shares repurchased pursuant to the stock repurchase plan will be purchased at a price below the net asset value per share as reported in our most recent financial statements, share repurchases may have the effect of increasing our net asset value per share.

 

Distributions

 

We intend to continue making monthly distributions to our stockholders. The timing and amount of our monthly distributions, if any, is determined by our Board. Any distributions to our stockholders are declared out of assets legally available for distribution. We monitor available net investment income to determine if a tax return of capital may occur for the fiscal year. To the extent our taxable earnings fall below the total amount of our distributions for any given fiscal year, a portion of those distributions may be considered a return of capital to our common stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Thus, the source of distribution to our stockholders may be the original capital invested by the stockholder rather than our income or gains. Stockholders should read any written disclosure accompanying a distribution payment carefully and should not assume that the source of any distribution is our ordinary income or gains.

 

In order to qualify to be subject to tax as a RIC, we must meet certain source-of-income, asset diversification and annual distribution requirements. Generally, in order to qualify as a RIC, we must derive at least 90% of our gross income during each tax year from dividends, interest, payments with respect to certain securities, loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income derived with respect to our business of investing in stock or other securities. We must also meet certain asset diversification requirements at the end of each quarter of each tax year. Failure to meet these diversification requirements on the last day of a quarter may result in us having to dispose of certain investments quickly in order to prevent the loss of RIC status. Any such dispositions could be made at disadvantageous prices or times, and may cause us to incur substantial losses.

 

 

In addition, in order to be eligible for the special tax treatment accorded to RICs and to avoid the imposition of corporate level tax on the income and gains we distribute to our stockholders, each tax year we are required under the Code to distribute as dividends of an amount generally at least 90% of our investment company taxable income, determined without regard to any deduction for dividends paid to our stockholders. We refer to such amount as the Annual Distribution Requirement. Additionally, we must distribute, in respect of each calendar year, dividends of an amount generally at least equal to the sum of 98% of our calendar year net ordinary income (taking into account certain deferrals and elections); 98.2% of our capital gain net income (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for the one year period ending on October 31 of such calendar year; and any net ordinary income or capital gain net income for preceding years that was not distributed during such years and on which we previously did not incur any U.S. federal income tax in order to avoid the imposition of a 4% U.S. federal excise tax. If we fail to qualify as a RIC for any reason and become subject to corporate income tax, the resulting corporate income taxes could substantially reduce our net assets, the amount of income available for distribution and the amount of our distributions. Such a failure would have a material adverse effect on us and our stockholders. In addition, we could be required to recognize unrealized gains, incur substantial taxes and interest and make substantial distributions in order to re-qualify as a RIC. We cannot assure stockholders that they will receive any distributions.

 

Depending on the level of taxable income earned in a tax year, we may choose to carry forward taxable income in excess of current year distributions into the next tax year and pay a 4% U.S. federal excise tax on such undistributed income. Distributions of any such carryover taxable income must be made through a distribution declared as of the earlier of the filing date of the corporate income tax return related to the tax year in which such taxable income was generated or the 15^th day of the ninth month following the end of such tax year, in order to count towards the satisfaction of the Annual Distribution Requirement for the tax year in which such taxable income was generated. We can offer no assurance that we will achieve results that will permit the payment of any cash distributions and, if we issue senior securities, we may be prohibited from making distributions if doing so causes us to fail to maintain the asset coverage stipulated by the 1940 Act or if distributions are limited by the terms of any of our borrowings. See “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations.”

 

We have adopted an “opt out” DRIP for our common stockholders. As a result, if we make a distribution, then stockholders’ cash distributions are automatically reinvested in additional shares of our common stock, unless they specifically opt out of the DRIP. If a stockholder opts out, that stockholder receives cash distributions. Although distributions paid in the form of additional shares of common stock are generally subject to U.S. federal, state and local taxes, stockholders participating in our DRIP do not receive any corresponding cash distributions with which to pay any such applicable taxes. We may use newly issued shares to implement the DRIP, or we may purchase shares in the open market in connection with our obligations under the DRIP.

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The information in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and in Part 1, Item 2 of our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

SENIOR SECURITIES

 

Information about our senior securities is shown in the following table as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011 and 2010. The information as of December 31, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was included in or derived from our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020, which were audited by RSM US LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm. This information about our senior securities should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

 

Class and Year		Total Amount Outstanding Exclusive of Treasury Securities(1)				Asset Coverage per Unit(2)				Involuntary Liquidation Preference per Unit(3)				Average Market Value per Unit(4)
		(in thousands, except unit data)
Credit facilities
2021 (as of March 31)		$	50,750				9,129				—				N/A
2020		$	50,250				7,965				—				N/A
2019		$	17,000				19,908				—				N/A
2018		$	90,500				2,896				—				N/A
2017		$	58,000			$	3,973				—				N/A
2016		$	63,000			$	3,733				—				N/A
2015		$	68,000			$	4,048				—				N/A
2014		$	10,000			$	22,000				—				N/A
2013		$	10,000			$	25,818				—				N/A
2012		$	56,020			$	4,177				—				N/A
2011		$	64,571			$	3,012				—				N/A
2010		$	87,425			$	2,455				—				N/A
2022 Notes
2021 (as of March 31)		$	37,375				12,396				—				25.29
2020		$	37,375				10,708				—				24.60
2019		$	37,375				9,055				—				25.53
2018		$	37,375				7,014				—				25.52
2017		$	37,375			$	6,166				—			$	25.66
2026 Notes
2021 (as of March 31)		$	57,500				8,057				—				25.00
2019 Notes
2021 (as of March 31)			—				—				—				—
2020			—				—				—				—
2019			—				—				—				—
2018			—				—				—				—
2017			—				—				—				—
2016		$	33,000			$	7,127				—			$	25.42
2015		$	33,000			$	8,342				—			$	25.26
2014		$	33,000			$	6,667				—			$	25.64
2013		$	33,000			$	7,824				—			$	25.70
2012		$	33,000			$	7,091				—			$	25.38
2019-1 Securitization
2021 (as of March 31)		$	100,000				4,633				—				N/A
2020		$	100,000				4,002				—				N/A
2019		$	100,000				3,384				—				N/A
2013-1 Securitization
2021 (as of March 31)			—				—				—				N/A
2020			—				—				—				N/A
2019			—				—				—				N/A
2018			—				—				—				N/A
2017			—				—				—				N/A
2016			—				—				—				N/A
2015		$	14,546			$	18,926				—				N/A
2014		$	38,753			$	5,677				—				N/A
2013		$	79,343			$	3,254				—				N/A
Total senior securities
2021 (as of March 31)		$	245,625			$	1,886				—				N/A
2020		$	187,625			$	2,133				—				N/A
2019		$	154,375			$	2,192				—				N/A
2018		$	127,875			$	2,050				—				N/A
2017		$	95,375			$	2,416				—				N/A
2016		$	96,000			$	2,450				—				N/A
2015		$	115,546			$	2,383				—				N/A
2014		$	81,753			$	2,691				—				N/A
2013		$	122,343			$	2,110				—				N/A
2012		$	89,020			$	2,629				—				N/A
2011		$	64,571			$	3,012				—				N/A
2010		$	87,425			$	2,455				—				N/A

 

---

(1)	Total amount of senior securities outstanding at the end of the period presented.

(2)

Asset coverage per unit is the ratio of the original cost less accumulated depreciation, amortization or impairment of the Company’s total consolidated assets, less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities, to the aggregate amount of senior securities representing indebtedness. Asset coverage per unit is expressed in terms of dollar amounts per $1,000 of indebtedness.

(3)

The amount which the holder of such class of senior security would be entitled upon the voluntary liquidation of the applicable issuer in preference to any security junior to it. The “—” in this column indicates that the SEC expressly does not require this information to be disclosed for certain types of securities.

(4)	Not applicable to the Company’s Credit Facilities, the 2019-1 Securitization, and the $189.3 million securitization of secured loans we completed on June 28, 2013, or the 2013-1 Securitization, because such securities are not registered for public trading.

 

 

BUSINESS

 

Please refer to “Business” in Part I, Item 1 of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and “Legal Proceedings” in Part I, Item 3 of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Part II, Item 1 of our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for a description of the Company.

 

 

PORTFOLIO COMPANIES

 

The following table sets forth certain information as of March 31, 2021 for each portfolio company in which we had a debt, equity or other investment. Other than these investments, our only relationships with our portfolio companies involve the managerial assistance we may separately provide to our portfolio companies, such services being ancillary to our investments, and the board observer or participation rights we may receive in connection with our investment. We do not “control” any of our portfolio companies, each as defined in the 1940 Act. In general, under the 1940 Act, we would “control” a portfolio company if we owned more than 25% of its voting securities.

 

						Principal				Cost of			Fair
Portfolio Company (1)(3)		Sector		Type of Investment (4)(7)(9)(10)		Amount				Investments (6)			Value
Non-Affiliate Investments —
Non-Affiliate Debt Investments —
Non-Affiliate Debt Investments — Life Science
Castle Creek Pharmaceuticals Holdings, Inc.(2)(12)  330 N. Wabash  Chicago, IL 60611		Biotechnology		Term Loan (9.30% cash (Libor + 7.50%; Floor 9.30%), 5.00% ETP, Due 3/1/24)		$	5,000			$	4,889		$	4,889
				Term Loan (9.30% cash (Libor + 7.50%; Floor 9.30%), 5.00% ETP, Due 3/1/24)			5,000				4,943			4,943
				Term Loan (9.30% cash (Libor + 7.50%; Floor 9.30%), 5.00% ETP, Due 3/1/24)			5,000				4,943			4,943
				Term Loan (9.30% cash (Libor + 7.50%; Floor 9.30%), 5.00% ETP, Due 3/1/24)			5,000				4,943			4,943
Celsion Corporation (2)(5)(12)  997 Lenox Drive, Suite 100 Lawrenceville, NJ 08648		Biotechnology		Term Loan (9.63% cash (Libor + 7.63%; Floor 9.63%), 5.50% ETP, Due 4/1/23)			2,500				2,479			2,479
				Term Loan (9.63% cash (Libor + 7.63%; Floor 9.63%), 5.50% ETP, Due 4/1/23)			2,500				2,527			2,483
Emalex Biosciences, Inc. (2)(12)  330 N. Wabash, Suite 3500  Chicago, IL 60611		Biotechnology		Term Loan (9.75% cash (Libor + 7.90%; Floor 9.75%), 5.00% ETP, Due 12/1/23)			2,500				2,357			2,357
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Libor + 7.90%; Floor 9.75%), 5.00% ETP, Due 12/1/23)			2,500				2,461			2,461
LogicBio, Inc. (2)(5)(12)  99 Eerie Street  Cambridge, MA 02139		Biotechnology		Term Loan (8.75% cash (Libor + 6.25%; Floor 8.75%), 4.50% ETP, Due 6/1/24)			5,000				4,979			4,979
Provivi, Inc. (2)(12)  1701 Colorado Avenue  Santa Monica, CA 90404		Biotechnology		Term Loan (9.50% cash (Libor + 8.50%; Floor 9.50%), 5.50% ETP, Due 12/1/24)			5,000				4,769			4,769
				Term Loan (9.50% cash (Libor + 8.50%; Floor 9.50%), 5.50% ETP, Due 12/1/24)			5,000				4,918			4,918
Bardy Diagnostics, Inc. (2)(12)  316 Occidental Avenue South  Seattle, WA 98104		Medical Device		Term Loan (8.90% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 8.90%), 5.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			5,000				4,948			4,948
				Term Loan (8.90% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 8.90%), 5.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			5,000				4,948			4,948
				Term Loan (8.90% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 8.90%), 5.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			1,000				989			989
				Term Loan (8.90% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 8.90%), 5.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			1,000				989			989
				Term Loan (8.90% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 8.90%), 5.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			1,000				989			989
				Term Loan (8.90% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 8.90%), 5.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			1,000				989			989
				Term Loan (8.90% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 8.90%), 5.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			1,000				989			989
Canary Medical Inc. (2)(12)  2710 Loker Avenue West  Carlsbad, CA 92010		Medical Device		Term Loan (9.00% cash (Prime + 5.75%; Floor 9.00%), 7.00% ETP, Due 11/1/24)			2,500				2,349			2,349
Ceribell, Inc. (2)(12)  2483 Old Middlefield Way, Suite 120  Mount View, CA 94043		Medical Device		Term Loan (8.25% cash (Libor + 6.70%; Floor 8.25%), 5.50% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			5,000				4,882			4,882
				Term Loan (8.25% cash (Libor + 6.70%; Floor 8.25%), 5.50% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			5,000				4,946			4,946
Conventus Orthopaedics, Inc. (2)(12)  10200 73rd Avenue North, Suite 122  Maple Grove, MN 55369		Medical Device		Term Loan (9.25% cash (Libor + 8.00%; Floor 9.25%), 10.36% ETP, Due 7/1/25)			4,936				4,878			4,878
				Term Loan (9.25% cash (Libor + 8.00%; Floor 9.25%), 10.36% ETP, Due 7/1/25)			4,936				4,878			4,878
Corinth Medtech, Inc. (2)(12)  1190 Saratoga Avenue, Suite 210 San Jose, CA 95129		Medical Device		Term Loan (8.50% cash (Prime + 5.25%; Floor 8.50%), 20.00% ETP, Due 4/1/22)			2,500				2,480			2,480
				Term Loan (8.50% cash (Prime + 5.25%; Floor 8.50%), 20.00% ETP, Due 4/1/22)			2,500				2,480			2,480
CSA Medical, Inc. (2)(12) 91 Hartwell Avenue Lexington, MA 02421		Medical Device		Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 8.20%; Floor 10.00%), 5.00% ETP, Due 1/1/24)			3,750				3,708			3,708
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 8.20%; Floor 10.00%), 5.00% ETP, Due 1/1/24)			250				247			247
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 8.20%; Floor 10.00%), 5.00% ETP, Due 3/1/24)			4,000				3,959			3,959
CVRx, Inc. (2)(12) 9201 W. Broadway Ave, #650 Minneapolis, MN 55445		Medical Device		Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 7.80%; Floor 10.00%), 3.50% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			5,000				4,951			4,951
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 7.80%; Floor 10.00%), 3.50% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			5,000				4,951			4,951
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 7.80%; Floor 10.00%), 3.50% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			5,000				4,951			4,951
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 7.80%; Floor 10.00%), 3.50% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			5,000				4,951			4,951
InfoBionic, Inc. (2)(12) 400 Totten Pond Road, Suite 315 Waltham, MA 02451		Medical Device		Term Loan (9.50% cash (Prime + 6.25%; Floor 9.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			3,500				3,331			3,331
MacuLogix, Inc. (2)(12) 1801 Oberlin Road, Suite 301 Middletown, PA 17057		Medical Device		Term Loan (10.08% cash (Libor + 7.68%; Floor 10.08%), 5.50% ETP, Due 10/1/23)			7,500				7,429			7,429
				Term Loan (10.08% cash (Libor + 7.68%; Floor 10.08%), 5.50% ETP, Due 10/1/23)			4,050				4,012			4,012

 

 

						Principal				Cost of			Fair
Portfolio Company (1)(3)		Sector		Type of Investment (4)(7)(9)(10)		Amount				Investments (6)			Value
Magnolia Medical Technologies, Inc. (2)(12) 200 West Mercer Street, Suite 500 Seattle, WA 98119		Medical Device		Term Loan (9.75% cash (Prime + 5.00%; Floor 9.75%), 4.00% ETP, Due 3/1/25)			5,000				4,941			4,941
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Prime + 5.00%; Floor 9.75%), 4.00% ETP, Due 3/1/25)			5,000				4,941			4,941
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Prime + 5.00%; Floor 9.75%), 4.00% ETP, Due 3/1/25)			5,000				4,930			4,930
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Prime + 5.00%; Floor 9.75%), 4.00% ETP, Due 3/1/25)			5,000				4,930			4,930
Sonex Health, Inc. (2)(12) 950 Blue Gentian Rd., Suite 200 Eagan, MN 55121		Medical Device		Term Loan (9.25% cash (Prime + 6.00%; Floor 9.25%), 5.00% ETP, Due 6/1/24)			2,500				2,382			2,382
				Term Loan (9.25% cash (Prime + 6.00%; Floor 9.25%), 5.00% ETP, Due 6/1/24)			2,500				2,463			2,463
				Term Loan (9.25% cash (Prime + 6.00%; Floor 9.25%), 5.00% ETP, Due 6/1/24)			2,500				2,463			2,463
Total Non-Affiliate Debt Investments — Life Science											155,482			155,438
Non-Affiliate Debt Investments — Technology
Alula Holdings, Inc. (2)(12) 2340 Energy Park Drive, Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55108		Consumer-related Technologies		Term Loan (10.00% cash (Prime + 6.75%; Floor 10.00%), 3.00% ETP, Due 1/1/25)			5,000				4,908			4,908
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Prime + 6.75%; Floor 10.00%), 3.00% ETP, Due 1/1/25)			5,000				4,936			4,936
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Prime + 6.75%; Floor 10.00%), 3.00% ETP, Due 1/1/25)			3,000				2,961			2,961
Betabrand Corporation (2)(12) 780 Valencia St. San Francisco, CA 94110		Consumer-related Technologies		Term Loan (10.05% cash (Libor + 7.50%; Floor 10.05%), 5.75% ETP, Due 9/1/23)			3,825				3,774			3,774
				Term Loan (10.05% cash (Libor + 7.50%; Floor 10.05%), 5.75% ETP, Due 9/1/23)			3,825				3,780			3,780
				Term Loan (10.05% cash (Libor + 7.50%; Floor 10.05%), 5.75% ETP, Due 9/1/23)			1,013				987			987
Clara Foods Co. (2)(12) 1 Tower Place, Suite 800 South San Francisco, CA 94080		Consumer-related Technologies		Term Loan (9.00% cash (Prime + 5.75%; Floor 9.00%), 5.50% ETP, Due 8/1/25)			2,500				2,442			2,442
				Term Loan (9.00% cash (Prime + 5.75%; Floor 9.00%), 5.50% ETP, Due 8/1/25)			2,500				2,471			2,471
Getaround, Inc. (2)(12) 55 Green Street San Francisco, CA 94111		Consumer-related Technologies		Term Loan (10.50% cash (Prime + 7.25%; Floor 10.50%), 4.50% ETP, Due 12/1/24)			10,000				9,809			9,809
				Term Loan (10.50% cash (Prime + 7.25%; Floor 10.50%), 4.50% ETP, Due 12/1/24)			4,000				3,864			3,864
				Term Loan (10.50% cash (Prime + 7.25%; Floor 10.50%), 4.50% ETP, Due 12/1/24)			4,000				3,864			3,864
				Term Loan (10.50% cash (Prime + 7.25%; Floor 10.50%), 4.50% ETP, Due 12/1/24)			3,500				3,404			3,404
				Term Loan (10.50% cash (Prime + 7.25%; Floor 10.50%), 4.50% ETP, Due 12/1/24)			3,500				3,404			3,404
Primary Kids, Inc. (2)(12) 158 West 27th Street, 6th Floor New York, NY 10010		Consumer-related Technologies		Term Loan (10.50% cash (Prime + 7.25%; Floor 10.50%), 3.00% ETP, Due 3/1/25)			3,000				2,933			2,933
				Term Loan (10.50% cash (Prime + 7.25%; Floor 10.50%), 3.00% ETP, Due 3/1/25)			3,000				2,952			2,952
Quip NYC Inc. 45 Main Street, Suite 630 Brooklyn, NY 11201		Consumer-related Technologies		Term Loan (11.25% cash (Prime + 8.00%; Floor 11.25%), 3.00% ETP, Due 4/1/26)			10,000				9,575			9,575
Updater, Inc. (2)(12) 19 Union Square West, 12th Floor New York, NY 10001		Consumer-related Technologies		Term Loan (12.00% cash (Prime + 5.75%; Floor 12.00%, Ceiling 14.00%),0.56% ETP, Due 12/20/24)			5,000				4,951			4,951
				Term Loan (12.00% cash (Prime + 5.75%; Floor 12.00%, Ceiling 14.00%), 0.56% ETP, Due 12/20/24)			5,000				4,951			4,951
				Term Loan (12.00% cash (Prime + 5.75%; Floor 12.00%, Ceiling 14.00%), 0.56% ETP, Due 12/20/24)			10,000				9,903			9,903
Silk, Inc. (2)(12) 75 Second Avenue, Suite 620 Needham, MA 02494		Data Storage		Term Loan (10.65% cash (Libor + 8.40%; Floor 10.65%), 4.00% ETP, Due 1/1/23)			3,667				3,631			3,631
				Term Loan (10.65% cash (Libor + 8.40%; Floor 10.65%), 4.00% ETP, Due 1/1/23)			3,667				3,631			3,631
				Term Loan (10.65% cash (Libor + 8.40%; Floor 10.65%), 4.00% ETP, Due 7/1/23)			4,667				4,564			4,563
Liqid, Inc.(2)(12) 339 Interlocken Parkway, Suite 200 Broomfield, CO 80021		Networking		Term Loan (9.50% cash (Prime + 6.25%; Floor 9.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			5,000				4,876			4,876
				Term Loan (9.50% cash (Prime + 6.25%; Floor 9.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			5,000				4,903			4,903
				Term Loan (9.50% cash (Prime + 6.25%; Floor 9.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			2,500				2,448			2,448

 

						Principal				Cost of			Fair
Portfolio Company (1)(3)		Sector		Type of Investment (4)(7)(9)(10)		Amount				Investments (6)			Value
				Term Loan (9.50% cash (Prime + 6.25%; Floor 9.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			2,500				2,448			2,448
BriteCore Holdings, Inc. (2)(12) 1522 S. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65808		Software		Term Loan (10.50% cash (Prime + 7.25%; Floor 10.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			2,500				2,476			2,476
				Term Loan (10.50% cash (Prime + 7.25%; Floor 10.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			2,500				2,476			2,476
E La Carte, Inc. (2)(12) 810 Hamilton St. Redwood City, CA 94063		Software		Term Loan (9.75% cash (Prime + 6.50%; Floor 9.75%), 4.00% ETP, Due 10/1/25)			3,000				2,928			2,928
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Prime + 6.50%; Floor 9.75%), 4.00% ETP, Due 10/1/25)			3,000				2,949			2,949
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Prime + 6.50%; Floor 9.75%), 4.00% ETP, Due 10/1/25)			1,500				1,475			1,475
Keypath Education, LLC (2)(12) 1933 N. Meacham Rd., Suite 400 Schaumbug, IL 60173		Software		Term Loan (10.50% cash (Libor + 8.50%; Floor 10.50%), 2.50% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			3,750				3,587			3,587
				Term Loan (10.50% cash (Libor + 8.50%; Floor 10.50%), 2.50% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			3,750				3,690			3,690
				Term Loan (10.50% cash (Libor + 8.50%; Floor 10.50%), 2.50% ETP, Due 10/1/24)			2,500				2,460			2,460
OutboundEngine, Inc. (2)(12) 98 San Jacinto Blvd., Suite 1300 Austin, TX 78701		Software		Term Loan (11.15% cash (Libor + 8.40%; Floor 11.15%), 3.63% ETP, Due 7/1/23)			3,600				3,554			3,554
				Term Loan (11.15% cash (Libor + 8.40%; Floor 11.15%), 3.63% ETP, Due 7/1/23)			3,150				3,110			3,110
				Term Loan (11.15% cash (Libor + 8.40%; Floor 11.15%), 3.63% ETP, Due 7/1/23)			450				454			446
Revinate, Inc. (2)(12) 1 Letterman Drive, Suite CM 100 San Francisco, CA 94129		Software		Term Loan (9.50% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 9.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 11/1/23)			4,000				3,977			3,910
				Term Loan (9.50% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 9.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 11/1/23)			1,000				991			991
				Term Loan (9.50% cash (Libor + 7.00%; Floor 9.50%), 4.00% ETP, Due 11/1/23)			5,000				4,951			4,951
Supply Network Visibility Holdings LLC (2)(12) 204 S Union St. Alexandria, VA 22314		Software		Term Loan (9.75% cash (Prime + 6.50%; Floor 9.75%), 4.00% ETP, Due 2/1/25)			3,500				3,448			3,448
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Prime + 6.50%; Floor 9.75%), 4.00% ETP, Due 2/1/25)			3,500				3,448			3,448
Topia Mobility, Inc. (2)(12) 30 Maiden Lane, Suite 550 San Francisco, CA 94108		Software		Term Loan (10.00% cash (Prime + 6.75%; Floor 10.00%), 4.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			5,000				4,834			4,751
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Prime + 6.75%; Floor 10.00%), 4.00% ETP, Due 9/1/24)			5,000				4,908			4,820
xAd, Inc. (2)(12) One World Trade Center, 60th Floor New York, NY 10007		Software		Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 8.70%; Floor 10.00%), 5.0% ETP, Due 1/1/22)			2,708				2,686			2,686
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 8.70%; Floor 10.00%), 5.0% ETP, Due 1/1/22)			2,708				2,686			2,686
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 8.70%; Floor 10.00%), 5.0% ETP, Due 1/1/22)			1,625				1,612			1,612
				Term Loan (10.00% cash (Libor + 8.70%; Floor 10.00%), 5.0% ETP, Due 1/1/22)			1,083				1,074			1,074
Total Non-Affiliate Debt Investments — Technology											176,144			175,897
Non-Affiliate Debt Investments — Healthcare information and services
IDbyDNA, Inc. (2)(12) 675 Arapeen Drive, Suite 301 Salt Lake City, UT 84108		Diagnostics		Term Loan (9.00% cash (Prime + 5.75%; Floor 9.00%), 5.50% ETP, Due 1/1/25)			5,000				4,851			4,851
				Term Loan (9.00% cash (Prime + 5.75%; Floor 9.00%), 5.50% ETP, Due 1/1/25)			5,000				4,919			4,919
Kate Farms, Inc. (2)(12) 101 Innovation Place Santa Barbara, CA 93108		Other Healthcare		Term Loan (9.75% cash (Libor + 7.45%; Floor 9.75%), 5.00% ETP, Due 10/1/23)			5,000				4,946			4,946
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Libor + 7.45%; Floor 9.75%), 5.00% ETP, Due 10/1/23)			5,000				4,946			4,946
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Libor + 7.45%; Floor 9.75%), 5.00% ETP, Due 10/1/23)			2,500				2,469			2,469
				Term Loan (9.75% cash (Libor + 7.45%; Floor 9.75%), 5.00% ETP, Due 10/1/23)			2,500				2,469			2,469
Total Non-Affiliate Debt Investments — Healthcare information and services											24,600			24,600
Total Non- Affiliate Debt Investments											356,226			355,935
Non-Affiliate Warrant Investments
Non-Affiliate Warrants — Life Science
Castle Creek Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2)(12) 330 N. Wabash Chicago, IL 60611		Biotechnology		2,428 Preferred Stock Warrants							144			157
Celsion Corporation (2)(5)(12) 997 Lenox Drive, Suite 100 Lawrenceville, NJ 08648		Biotechnology		295,053 Common Stock Warrants							65			117
Corvium, Inc. (2)(12) 840 Memorial Drive, 4th Floor Cambridge, MA 02139		Biotechnology		661,956 Preferred Stock Warrants							53			—
Emalex Biosciences, Inc. (2)(12) 330 N. Wabash, Suite 3500 Chicago, IL 60611		Biotechnology		73,602 Preferred Stock Warrants							107			158
LogicBio, Inc. (2)(5)(12) 99 Eerie Street Cambridge, MA 02139		Biotechnology		7,843 Common Stock Warrants							8			2
Mustang Bio, Inc. (2)(5)(12) 377 Plantation Street Worcester, MA 01605		Biotechnology		252,161 Common Stock Warrants							146			149
Provivi, Inc. (2)(12) 1701 Colorado Avenue Santa Monica, CA 90404		Biotechnology		123,457 Preferred Stock Warrants							147			431
Rocket Pharmaceuticals Corporation (5)(12) 131 Hartwell Avenue, Suite 105 Lexington, MA 02421		Biotechnology		7,051 Common Stock Warrants							16			138
Strongbridge U.S. Inc. (2)(5)(12) 900 Northbrook Drive, Suite 200 Trevose, PA 19053		Biotechnology		160,714 Common Stock Warrants							70			93
vTv Therapeutics Inc. (2)(5)(12) 4170 Mendenhall Oaks Parkway High Point, NC 27265		Biotechnology		95,293 Common Stock Warrants							44			1

 

 

										Cost of			Fair
Portfolio Company (1)(3)		Sector		Type of Investment (4)(7)(9)(10)						Investments (6)			Value
AccuVein Inc. (2)(12) 40 Goose Hill Road Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724		Medical Device		1,175 Common Stock Warrants							24			—
Aerin Medical, Inc. (2)(12) 232 E. Caribbean Drive Sunnyvale, CA 94089		Medical Device		1,818,183 Preferred Stock Warrants							66			466
Bardy Diagnostics, Inc. (2)(12) 316 Occidental Avenue South Seattle, WA 98104		Medical Device		360,000 Preferred Stock Warrants							56			672
Canary Medical Inc. (2)(12) 2710 Loker Avenue West Carlsbad, CA 92010		Medical Device		7,292 Preferred Stock Warrants							54			56
Ceribell, Inc. (2)(12) 2483 Old Middlefield Way, Suite 120 Mount View, CA 94043		Medical Device		117,521 Preferred Stock Warrants							50			119
Conventus Orthopaedics, Inc. (2)(12) 10200 73rd Avenue North, Suite 122 Maple Grove, MN 55369		Medical Device		6,361,111 Preferred Stock Warrants							149			179
CSA Medical, Inc. (2)(12) 91 Hartwell Avenue Lexington, MA 02421		Medical Device		1,375,727 Preferred Stock Warrants							153			155
CVRx, Inc.(2)(12) 9201 W. Broadway Ave, #650 Minneapolis, MN 55445		Medical Device		750,000 Preferred Stock Warrants							76			76
Infobionic, Inc. (2)(12) 400 Totten Pond Road, Suite 315 Waltham, MA 02451		Medical Device		317,647 Preferred Stock Warrants							124			124
MacuLogix, Inc. (2)(12) 1801 Oberlin Road, Suite 301 Middletown, PA 17057		Medical Device		454,460 Preferred Stock Warrants							236			119
Magnolia Medical Technologies, Inc. (2)(12) 200 West Mercer Street, Suite 500 Seattle, WA 98119		Medical Device		378,363 Preferred Stock Warrants							91			94
Meditrina, Inc. (2)(12) 1601 S. De Anza Blvd., Suite 165 Cupertino, CA 95014		Medical Device		221,510 Preferred Stock Warrants							83			123
Sonex Health, Inc. (2)(12) 950 Blue Gentian Rd., Suite 200 Eagan, MN 55121		Medical Device		484,250 Preferred Stock Warrants							78			79
VERO Biotech LLC (2)(12) 2941 Oxbow Circle Cocoa, FL 32929		Medical Device		408 Preferred Stock Warrants							54			52
Total Non-Affiliate Warrants — Life Science											2,094			3,560
Non-Affiliate Warrants — Technology
Intelepeer Holdings, Inc. (2)(12) 155 Bovet Road, Suite 405 San Mateo, CA 94402		Communications		3,078,084 Preferred and Common Stock Warrants							138			186
PebblePost, Inc. (2)(12) 36 Cooper Square, 4th Floor New York, NY 10003		Communications		598,850 Preferred Stock Warrants							92			167
Alula Holdings, Inc. (2)(12) 2340 Energy Park Drive, Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55108		Consumer-related Technologies		20,000 Preferred Stock Warrants							93			94
Betabrand Corporation (2)(12) 780 Valencia St. San Francisco, CA 94110		Consumer-related Technologies		261,198 Preferred Stock Warrants							106			12
Caastle, Inc. (2)(12) 43-01 22nd Street Long Island City, NY 11101		Consumer-related Technologies		268,591 Preferred Stock Warrants							68			823
Clara Foods Co. (2)(12) 1 Tower Place, Suite 800 South San Francisco, CA 94080		Consumer-related Technologies		46,745 Preferred Stock Warrants							30			30
Getaround, Inc. (2)(12) 55 Green Street San Francisco, CA 94111		Consumer-related Technologies		651,040 Preferred Stock Warrants							450			462
Mohawk Group Holdings, Inc. (2)(5)(12) 37 East 18th St., 7th Floor New York, NY 10003		Consumer-related Technologies		76,923 Common Stock Warrants							195			1,115
Primary Kids, Inc. (2)(12) 158 West 27th Street, 6th Floor New York, NY 10010		Consumer-related Technologies		553,778 Preferred Stock Warrants							57			57
Quip NYC Inc. (2)(12) 45 Main Street, Suite 630 Brooklyn, NY 11201		Consumer-related Technologies		6,191 Preferred Stock Warrants							325			325
Updater, Inc.(2)(12) 19 Union Square West, 12th Floor New York, NY 10001		Consumer-related Technologies		108,333 Common Stock Warrants							34			72
CPG Beyond, Inc. (2)(12) 2077 Convention Center Concourse, Suite 425 Atlanta, GA 30337		Data Storage		500,000 Preferred Stock Warrants							242			704
Silk, Inc. (2)(12) 75 Second Avenue, Suite 620 Needham, MA 02494		Data Storage		44,211,003 Preferred and Common Stock Warrants							233			202
Global Worldwide LLC (2)(12) 333 Bush Street, 19th Floor San Francisco, CA 94104		Internet and Media		245,810 Preferred Stock Warrants							75			9
Rocket Lawyer Incorporated (2)(12) 182 Howard Street, Suite #830 San Francisco, CA 9410		Internet and Media		261,721 Preferred Stock Warrants							92			89
Skillshare, Inc. (2)(12) 35 East 21st, 5th Floor New York, NY 10012		Internet and Media		139,073 Preferred Stock Warrants							162			2,412
Liqid, Inc.(2)(12) 339 Interlocken Parkway, Suite 200 Broomfield, CO 80021		Networking		284,599 Preferred Stock Warrants							189			193
Kinestral, Inc. (2)(12) 3955 Trust Way Hayward, CA 94545		Power Management		5,002,574 Preferred Stock Warrants							1,585			1,326
Avalanche Technology, Inc. (2)(12) 43871 Fremont Boulevard, Suite 101 Fremont, CA 94538		Semiconductors		6,753 Preferred and Common Stock Warrants							101			—
BriteCore Holdings, Inc. (2)(12) 1522 S. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65808		Software		12,857 Preferred Stock Warrants							5			11
E La Carte, Inc. (2)(12) 810 Hamilton St. Redwood City, CA 94063		Software		181,947 Preferred Stock Warrants							60			60
Education Elements, Inc. (2)(12) 999 Skyway Road San Carlos, CA 94070		Software		238,121 Preferred Stock Warrants							28			27
Keypath Education, Inc.(2)(12) 1933 N. Meacham Rd., Suite 400 Schaumbug, IL 60173		Software		900,000 Preferred Stock Warrants							157			513
Lotame Solutions, Inc. (2)(12) 8850 Stanford Blvd, Suite 2000 Columbus, MD 21045		Software		288,115 Preferred Stock Warrants							19			276
OutboundEngine, Inc. (2)(12) 98 San Jacinto Blvd., Suite 1300 Austin, TX 78701		Software		620,000 Preferred Stock Warrants							80			33
Revinate, Inc. (2)(12) 1 Letterman Drive, Suite CM 100 San Francisco, CA 94129		Software		615,475 Preferred Stock Warrants							45			54
Riv Data Corp. (2)(12) 735 State Street, Suite 600 Santa Barbara, CA 93101		Software		321,428 Preferred Stock Warrants							13			287
SIGNiX, Inc. (12) 1203 Carter St. Chattanooga, TN 37402		Software		186,045 Preferred Stock Warrants							225			—
Skyword, Inc. (12) 38 Chauncy Street Boston, MA 02111		Software		301,055 Preferred and Common Stock Warrants							49			8
Supply Network Visibility Holdings LLC (2)(12) 204 S Union St. Alexandria, VA 22314		Software		398 Preferred Stock Warrants							38			38
Topia Mobility, Inc. (2)(12) 30 Maiden Lane, Suite 550 San Francisco, CA 94108		Software		3,049,607 Preferred Stock Warrants							139			—
xAd, Inc. (2)(127) One World Trade Center, 60th Floor New York, NY 10007		Software		4,343,348 Preferred Stock Warrants							178			3
Total Non-Affiliate Warrants — Technology											5,303			9,588
Non-Affiliate Warrants — Healthcare information and services
IDbyDNA, Inc.(2)(12) 675 Arapeen Drive, Suite 301 Salt Lake City, UT 84108		Diagnostics		363,082 Preferred Stock Warrants							91			93
Kate Farms, Inc. (2)(12) 101 Innovation Place Santa Barbara, CA 93108		Other Healthcare		82,965 Preferred Stock Warrants							102			1,176
Watermark Medical, Inc. (2)(12) 1641 Worthington Road, Suite 320 West Palm Beach, FL 33409		Other Healthcare		27,373 Preferred Stock Warrants							74			—
Medsphere Systems Corporation (2)(12) 1903 Wright Place, Suite 120 Carlsbad, CA 92008		Software		7,097,792 Preferred Stock Warrants							60			196
Total Non-Affiliate Warrants — Healthcare information and services											327			1,465
Total Non-Affiliate Warrants											7,724			14,613
Non-Affiliate Other Investments
ZetrOZ, Inc. (12) 56 Quarry Road Trumbull, CT 06611		Medical Device		Royalty Agreement							—			200
Total Non-Affiliate Other Investments											—			200

 

 

						Principal				Cost of			Fair
Portfolio Company (1)(3)		Sector		Type of Investment (4)(7)(9)(10)		Amount				Investments (6)			Value
Non-Affiliate Equity
SnagAJob.com, Inc. (12) 4851 Lake Brook Drive Glen Allen, VA 23060		Consumer-related Technologies		82,974 Common Stock							9			82
Zeta Global Holdings Corp. (2)(12) 185 Madison Avenue, 5th Floor New York, NY 10016		Internet and Media		18,405 Common Stock							240			48
Clarabridge, Inc. (12) 11400 Commerce Park Drive, Suite 500 Reston, VA 20191		Software		17,142 Preferred Stock							15			36
Lightspeed POS Inc. (5) 700 Rue Saine-Aintoine St. East Montreal, QC H2Y 1A6, Canada		Software		17,037 Common Stock							1,167			1,070
Total Non-Affiliate Equity											1,431			1,236
Total Non-Affiliate Portfolio Investment Assets										$	365,381		$	371,984
Non-controlled Affiliate Investments
Non-controlled Affiliate Debt Investments — Technology
Decisyon, Inc. (12) 1266 East Main Street Stamford, CT 06902		Software		Term Loan (12.50% cash (Libor + 12.308%; Floor 12.50%), 12.00% ETP, Due 6/1/21)		$	1,182			$	1,181		$	1,181
				Term Loan (12.50% cash (Libor + 12.308%; Floor 12.50%), 12.00% ETP, Due 6/1/21)			646				638			638
				Term Loan (12.02% cash, Due 6/1/21)			239				227			227
				Term Loan (12.03% cash, Due 6/1/21)			238				227			228
				Term Loan (12.24% cash, Due 6/1/21)			705				685			685
				Term Loan (13.08% cash, Due 6/1/21)			276				276			276
				Term Loan (13.10% cash, Due 6/1/21)			184				183			183
StereoVision Imaging, Inc. (2)(12) Gateway Metro Center 3452 East Foothill Boulevard, Suite 1125 Pasadena, CA 91107		Software		Term Loan (8.50% Cash (Libor + 7.03%; Floor 8.50%), 15.63% ETP, Due 1/1/22)			2,783				2,401			2,401
Total Non-controlled Affiliate Debt Investments — Technology											5,818			5,819
Non-controlled Affiliate Warrants — Technology
Decisyon, Inc. (12) 1266 East Main Street Stamford, CT 06902		Software		82,967 Common Stock Warrants							46			—
Total Non-controlled Affiliate Warrants — Technology											46			—
Non-controlled Affiliate Equity — Technology
Decisyon, Inc. (12) 1266 East Main Street Stamford, CT 06902		Software		72,638,663 Preferered and Common Stock							229			120
StereoVision Imaging, Inc. (2)(12) Gateway Metro Center 3452 East Foothill Boulevard, Suite 1125 Pasadena, CA 91107		Software		1,943,572 Preferred and Common Stock							791			600
Total Non-controlled Affiliate Equity											1,020			720
Total Non-controlled Affiliate Portfolio Investment Assets										$	6,884		$	6,539
Controlled Affiliate Investments
Controlled Affiliate Other Investments — Biotechnology
HESP LLC (2)(12)(13) 312 Farmington Ave Farmington, CT 06032		Biotechnology		Other Investment						$	1,500		$	1,500
Total Controlled Affiliate Other Investments											1,500			1,500
Total Controlled Affiliate Portfolio Investment Assets										$	1,500		$	1,500
Total Portfolio Investment Assets										$	373,765		$	380,023

 

(1) All investments of the Company are in entities which are organized under the laws of the United States and have a principal place of business in the United States.

 

(2) Has been pledged as collateral under the revolving credit facility (the “Key Facility”) with KeyBank National Association (“Key”), the Note Funding Agreement (the “NYL Facility” and, together with the Key Facility, the “Credit Facilities”) with several entities owned or affiliated with New York Life Insurance Company (“NYL Noteholders”) and/or the term debt securitization in connection with which an affiliate of the Company made an offering of $100.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed rate asset-backed notes that were issued in conjunction with the $160.0 million securitization of secured loans the Company completed on August 13, 2019 (“the Asset-Backed Notes”).

 

(3) All non-affiliate investments are investments in which the Company owns less than 5% of the voting securities of the portfolio company. All non-controlled affiliate investments are investments in which the Company owns 5% or more of the voting securities of the portfolio company but not more than 25% of the voting securities of the portfolio company. All controlled affiliate investments are investments in which the Company owns more than 25% of the portfolio company’s outstanding voting securities or has the power to exercise control over management or policies of such portfolio company (including through a management agreement).

 

(4) All interest is payable in cash due monthly in arrears, unless otherwise indicated, and applies only to the Company’s debt investments. Interest rate is the annual interest rate on the debt investment and does not include end-of-term payments (“ETPs”), and any additional fees related to the investments, such as deferred interest, commitment fees or prepayment fees. Debt investments are at variable rates for the term of the debt investment, unless otherwise indicated. All debt investments based on the London InterBank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) are based on one-month LIBOR. For each debt investment, the current interest rate in effect as of March 31, 2021 is provided.

 

(5) Portfolio company is a public company.

 

(6) For debt investments, represents principal balance less unearned income.

 

(7) Warrants, Equity and Other Investments are non-income producing.

 

(8) Value as a percent of net assets.

 

(9) The Company did not have any non-qualifying assets under Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act) as of March 31, 2021. Under the 1940 Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying assets unless, at the time the acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of the Company’s total assets.

 

(10) ETPs are contractual fixed-interest payments due in cash at the maturity date of the applicable debt investment, including upon any prepayment, and are a fixed percentage of the original principal balance of the debt investments unless otherwise noted. Interest will accrue during the life of the debt investment on each ETP and will be recognized as non-cash income until it is actually paid. Therefore, a portion of the incentive fee the Company may pay its Advisor will be based on income that the Company has not yet received in cash.

 

(11) Debt investment has a payment-in-kind (“PIK”) feature.

 

(12) The fair value of the investment was valued using significant unobservable inputs.

 

(13) On July 8, 2020, Espero BioPharma, Inc. and its affiliates, Jacksonville Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Espero Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (collectively, “Espero”) assigned substantially all of their assets to their respective assignment estates and respectively appointed PSE (ABC), LLC, PS PJAX (ABC), LLC, and PPSE (ABC), LLC (collectively, “Espero ABC”) to administer their respective estates and facilitate the orderly sale and liquidation of Espero’s property and assets. On October 6, 2020, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware approved the transfer of the assets of Espero to the Company and Credit II or their designees in consideration for the Company and Credit II’s credit bid at auction of $7.0 million. On October 22, 2020, Espero ABC transferred the assets of Espero to HESP LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, wholly owned by the Company.

 

 

MANAGEMENT

 

The information in the sections entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management,” “Information About the Nominees and Directors,” “Director Independence,” “The Board’s Oversight Role in Management,” “Board Composition and Leadership Structure,” “Information About Each Director’s Experience, Qualifications, Attributes or Skills,” “Board Meetings and Committees,” “Information About Executive Officers Who are Not Directors” and “Compensation of Directors” in our most recent Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

 

The information in the section entitled “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions” in our most recent Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

OUR ADVISOR

 

Our Advisor is located at 312 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut 06032 and serves as our investment adviser pursuant to the Investment Management Agreement. Our Advisor is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act. Subject to the overall supervision of our Board, our Advisor manages the day-to-day operations of, and provides investment advisory and management services to, us.

 

 

INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENTS

 

The information in the section entitled “Business—Investment Management Agreements” and “Business—Administration Agreements” in Part I, Item 1 of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and in the notes to our consolidated financial statements under the caption “Note 3. Related Party Transactions” in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

 

The information in the section entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in our most recent Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE

 

The net asset value per share of our outstanding shares of common stock is determined quarterly by dividing the value of total assets minus liabilities by the total number of shares of common stock outstanding at the date as of which the determination is made. We conduct the valuation of our assets, pursuant to which our net asset value is determined, at all times consistent with GAAP and the 1940 Act.

 

In calculating the fair value of our total assets, investments for which market quotations are readily available are valued at such market quotations, which are generally obtained from an independent pricing service or one or more broker-dealers or market makers. However, debt investments with remaining maturities within 60 days that are not credit impaired are valued at cost plus accreted discount, or minus amortized premium, which approximates fair value.

 

We value our investments at fair value which is the market value of our investments. There is no readily available market value for many of our portfolio investments, and we value those debt and equity securities that are not publicly traded or whose market value is not ascertainable at fair value as determined in good faith by our Board in accordance with our valuation policy. Our Board employs independent third party valuation firms to assist in determining fair value.

 

The types of factors that our Board may take into account in determining fair value include: comparisons of financial ratios of the portfolio companies that issued such private equity securities to peer companies that are public, the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company’s ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flow, the markets in which the portfolio company does business and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, we consider the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate the private equity valuation. The Board also reviews periodically the quality and nature of inputs to the valuation process used by the Advisor and the valuation methodology employed by the Advisor.

 

With respect to investments for which market quotations are not readily available or for which no indicative prices from pricing services or brokers or dealers have been received, our Board undertakes a multi-step valuation process each quarter, as described below:

 

•

the quarterly valuation process begins with each portfolio company or investment being initially valued by our Advisor’s investment professionals responsible for monitoring the investment;

•

preliminary valuation conclusions are then documented and discussed with our Advisor’s senior management;

 

 

•

a third-party valuation firm is engaged by, or on behalf of, our Board to conduct independent appraisals of all investments at least once annually;

•

our Board receives both the Advisor’s value and the third-party valuation firm’s value, when applicable; and

•

our Board then discusses the valuations and determines in good faith the fair value of each investment in the portfolio.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty in determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily observable fair value, and the subjective judgments and estimates involved in those determinations, the fair value determinations by our Board, even though determined in good faith, may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a readily available market value existed for such investments, and the differences could be material.

 

Determinations in connection with offerings

 

In connection with offerings of shares of our common stock, our Board or one of its committees is required to make the determination that we are not selling shares of our common stock at a price below the then current net asset value of our common stock at the time at which the sale is made, unless we have stockholder approval to sell our common stock at an offering price per share less any underwriting commissions or discounts below the net asset value per share of our common stock at such time. Our Board or an applicable committee of our Board considers the following factors, among others, in making such determination:

 

•

the net asset value of our common stock most recently disclosed by us in the most recent periodic report that we filed with the SEC;

•

our management’s assessment of whether any material change in the net asset value of our common stock has occurred (including through the realization of gains on the sale of our portfolio securities) during the period beginning on the date of the most recently disclosed net asset value of our common stock and ending two days prior to the date of the sale of our common stock; and

•

the magnitude of the difference between (i) the net asset value of our common stock most recently disclosed by us and our management’s assessment of any material change in the net asset value of our common stock since that determination and (ii) the offering price of the shares of our common stock in the proposed offering.

 

This determination does not require that we calculate the net asset value of our common stock in connection with each offering of shares of our common stock, but instead it involves the determination by our Board or a committee thereof that we are not selling shares of our common stock at a price below the then current net asset value of our common stock at the time at which the sale is made or otherwise in violation of the 1940 Act.

 

Moreover, to the extent that there is even a remote possibility that we may (i) issue shares of our common stock at a price below the then current net asset value of our common stock at the time at which the sale is made or (ii) trigger the undertaking (which we provide in certain registration statements we file with the SEC) to suspend the offering of shares of our common stock pursuant to this prospectus if the net asset value of our common stock fluctuates by certain amounts in certain circumstances until the prospectus is amended, our Board will elect, in the case of clause (i) above, either to postpone the offering until such time that there is no longer the possibility of the occurrence of such event or to undertake to determine the net asset value of our common stock within two days prior to any such sale to ensure that such sale will not be below our then current net asset value, and, in the case of clause (ii) above, to comply with such undertaking or to undertake to determine the net asset value of our common stock to ensure that such undertaking has not been triggered.

 

These processes and procedures are part of our compliance policies and procedures. Records will be made contemporaneously with all determinations of our Board described in this section, and we will maintain these records with other records that we are required to maintain under the 1940 Act.

 

 

DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN

 

We have adopted a DRIP that provides for reinvestment of our cash distributions and other distributions on behalf of our stockholders, unless a stockholder elects to receive cash as provided below. As a result, if our Board declares a cash distribution, then our stockholders who have not “opted out” of our DRIP have their cash distribution automatically reinvested in additional shares of our common stock, rather than receiving the cash distribution.

 

No action is required on the part of a registered stockholder to have their cash distribution reinvested in shares of our common stock. A registered stockholder may elect to receive an entire distribution in cash by notifying Computershare Shareowner Services, the plan administrator and our transfer agent and registrar, in writing so that such notice is received by the plan administrator no later than 10 days prior to the record date for distributions to stockholders. The plan administrator sets up an account for shares acquired through the plan for each stockholder who has not elected to receive dividends or other distributions in cash and holds such shares in non-certificated form. Upon request by a stockholder participating in the plan, received in writing not less than 10 days prior to the record date, the plan administrator will, instead of crediting shares to the participant’s account, issue a certificate registered in the participant’s name for the number of whole shares of our common stock and a check for any fractional share.

 

Those stockholders whose shares are held by a broker or other financial intermediary may receive distributions in cash by notifying their broker or other financial intermediary of their election.

 

We intend to use primarily newly issued shares to implement the plan, whether our shares are trading at a premium or at a discount to net asset value. However, we reserve the right to purchase shares in the open market in connection with our implementation of the plan. The number of shares to be issued to a stockholder is determined by dividing the total dollar amount of the distribution payable to such stockholder by the market price per share of our common stock at the close of regular trading on Nasdaq on the valuation date, which date shall be as close as practicable to the payment date for such distribution. Market price per share on that date will be the closing price for such shares on Nasdaq or, if no sale is reported for such day, at the average of their reported bid and asked prices. The number of shares of our common stock to be outstanding after giving effect to payment of the distribution cannot be established until the value per share at which additional shares will be issued has been determined and elections of our stockholders have been tabulated. Stockholders who do not elect to receive distributions in shares of common stock may experience accretion to the net asset value of their shares if our shares are trading at a premium at the time we issue new shares under the plan and dilution if our shares are trading at a discount. The level of accretion or discount would depend on various factors, including the proportion of our stockholders who participate in the plan, the level of premium or discount at which our shares are trading and the amount of the distribution payable to a stockholder.

 

 

There are no brokerage charges or other charges to stockholders who participate in the plan. The plan administrator’s fees under the plan are paid by us. If a participant elects by written notice to the plan administrator to have the plan administrator sell part or all of the shares held by the plan administrator in the participant’s account and remit the proceeds to the participant, the plan administrator is authorized to deduct a $15.00 transaction fee plus a $0.10 per share trading fee from the proceeds.

 

Stockholders who receive distributions in the form of stock are generally subject to the same federal, state and local tax consequences as are stockholders who elect to receive their distributions in cash. Any stock received in a dividend has a new holding period for tax purposes commencing on the day following the day on which the shares are credited to the U.S. stockholder’s account. See “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations.”

 

Participants may terminate their accounts under the plan by notifying the plan agent via its website at www.computershare.com/investor, by filling out the transaction request form located at bottom of their statement and sending it to the plan agent at c/o Computershare Shareowner Services LLC, P.O. Box 505000, Louisville, Kentucky 40233 or by calling the plan administrator at 877-373-6374.

 

The plan may be terminated by us upon notice in writing mailed to each participant. All correspondence concerning the plan should be directed to the plan administrator by mail at Plan Administrator c/o Computershare Shareowner Services LLC, P.O. Box 505000, Louisville, Kentucky 40233.

 

If you withdraw or the plan is terminated, the plan administrator will continue to hold your shares in book-entry form unless you request that such shares be sold or issued. Upon receipt of your instructions, a certificate for each whole share in your account under the plan will be issued and you will receive a cash payment for any fraction of a share in your account.

 

If you hold your common stock with a brokerage firm that does not participate in the plan, you are not able to participate in the plan and any dividend reinvestment may be effected on different terms than those described above. Consult your financial advisor for more information.

 

 

DESCRIPTION OF OUR SECURITIES

 

This prospectus contains a summary of our common stock, preferred stock, subscription rights, debt securities and warrants. These summaries are not meant to be a complete description of each security. However, this prospectus and the accompanying prospectus supplement will contain the material terms and conditions for each security.

 

Set forth below is a chart describing our securities authorized and outstanding as of June 28, 2021:

 

Title of Class		Amount Authorized				Amount Held by Us or for Our Account				Amount Outstanding Exclusive of Amount Held by Us or for Our Account
Common Stock		100,000,000 shares					167,465				20,010,283
Preferred Stock		1,000,000 shares					—				—
2026 Notes		$	57,500,000				—			$	57,500,000

 

In addition to shares of our common stock, which are described under the heading “Description of Our Common Stock”, we have approximately $57.5 million aggregate principal amount of 2026 Notes outstanding. On March 30, 2021, we issued and sold an aggregate principal amount of $57.5 million of the 2026 Notes. The 2026 Notes have a stated maturity of March 30, 2026 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at our option at any time or from time to time on or after March 30, 2023 at a redemption price of $25 per security plus accrued and unpaid interest. The 2026 Notes bear interest at a rate of 4.875% per year, payable quarterly on March 30, June 30, September 30 and December 30 of each year. The 2026 Notes are our direct unsecured obligations and (i) rank equally in right of payment with our current and future unsecured indebtedness; (ii) are senior in right of payment to any of our future indebtedness that expressly provides it is subordinated to the 2026 Notes; (iii) are effectively subordinated to all of our existing and future secured indebtedness (including indebtedness that is initially unsecured to which we subsequently grants security), to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness, and (iv) are structurally subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness and other obligations of any of our subsidiaries. As of June 28, 2021, we were in material compliance with the terms of the 2026 Notes. The 2026 Notes are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “HTFB”. U.S. Bank National Association serves as trustee under the indenture governing the 2026 Notes. U.S. Bank National Association also serves as collateral custodian under the Key Facility. See “Description of Debt Securities that we may Issue — Events of default” for information regarding the circumstances in which the trustee will take action, and “—Modification or waiver” for information on how the terms of the 2026 Notes may be modified.

 

 

DESCRIPTION OF COMMON STOCK THAT WE MAY ISSUE

 

General

 

The following description does not purport to be complete and is subject to the provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, each of which are filed as exhibits to this registration statement. The description is qualified in its entirety by reference to our certificate of incorporation and bylaws and to applicable law.

 

Under the terms of our certificate of incorporation, our authorized common stock consists solely of 100,000,000 shares, par value $0.001 per share, of which 20,010,283 shares were outstanding as of June 28, 2021. Our common stock is traded on Nasdaq under the symbol “HRZN”. There are no outstanding options or warrants to purchase our stock. No stock has been authorized for issuance under any equity compensation plans. Under the DGCL, our stockholders generally are not personally liable for our debts or obligations.

 

Under the terms of our certificate of incorporation, all shares of our common stock have equal rights as to earnings, assets, distributions and voting. When they are issued, shares of our common stock will be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable. Distributions may be paid to the holders of our common stock if, as and when declared by our Board out of assets legally available therefor, subject to any preferential dividend rights of outstanding preferred stock. Holders of common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders, including the election of directors, and do not have cumulative voting rights. Accordingly, holders of a majority of the shares of common stock entitled to vote in any election of directors may elect all of the directors standing for election. Upon our liquidation, dissolution or winding up, the holders of common stock are entitled to receive ratably our net assets available after the payment of all debts and other liabilities and subject to the prior rights of any outstanding preferred stock. Holders of common stock have no preemptive, subscription, redemption or conversion rights. The rights, preferences and privileges of holders of common stock are subject to the rights of the holders of any series of preferred stock which we may designate and issue in the future. In addition, holders of our common stock may participate in our DRIP.

 

Anti-takeover effects of provisions of our certificate of incorporation, bylaws, the DGCL and other arrangements

 

Certain provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, applicable provisions of the DGCL and certain other agreements to which we are a party may make it more difficult for or prevent an unsolicited third party from acquiring control of us or changing our Board and management. These provisions may have the effect of deterring hostile takeovers or delaying changes in our control or in our management. These provisions are intended to enhance the likelihood of continued stability in the composition of our Board and in the policies furnished by them and to discourage certain types of transactions that may involve an actual or threatened change in our control. The provisions also are intended to discourage certain tactics that may be used in proxy fights. These provisions, however, could have the effect of discouraging others from making tender offers for our shares and, as a consequence, they also may inhibit fluctuations in the market price of our shares that could result from actual or rumored takeover attempts.

 

Election of directors.  Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide that the affirmative vote of a plurality of all votes cast at a meeting of stockholders duly called at which a quorum is present shall be sufficient to elect a director. Under our certificate of incorporation, our Board may amend the bylaws to alter the vote required to elect directors.

 

Classified board of directors.  The classification of our Board and the limitations on removal of directors and filling of vacancies could have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire us, or of discouraging a third party from acquiring us. Our Board is divided into three classes, with the term of one class expiring at each annual meeting of stockholders. At each annual meeting, one class of directors is elected to a three-year term. This provision could delay for up to two years the replacement of a majority of our Board.

 

 

Number of directors; vacancies; removal.  Our certificate of incorporation provides that, by amendment to our bylaws, our Board is authorized to change the number of directors without the consent of stockholders to any number between three and nine.

 

Our certificate of incorporation provides that, subject to the rights of any holders of preferred stock, any vacancy on our Board, however the vacancy occurs, including a vacancy due to an enlargement of our Board, may only be filled by vote of a majority of the directors then in office.

 

Subject to the rights of any holders of preferred stock, a director may be removed at any time at a meeting called for that purpose, but only for cause and only by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 75% of the shares then entitled to vote for the election of the respective director.

 

The limitations on the ability of our stockholders to remove directors and fill vacancies could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or discourage a third party from seeking to acquire, control of us.

 

Action by stockholders.  Under our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, stockholder action can only be taken at an annual meeting or special meeting and not by written action in lieu of a meeting. This may have the effect of delaying consideration of a stockholder proposal until the next annual meeting.

 

Advance notice requirements for stockholder proposals and director nominations.  Our bylaws provide that with respect to an annual meeting of stockholders, nominations of persons for election to our Board and the proposal of business to be considered by stockholders may be made only (1) by or at the direction of our Board, (2) pursuant to our notice of meeting or (3) by a stockholder who is entitled to vote at the meeting and who has complied with the advance notice procedures of the bylaws. Nominations of persons for election to our Board at a special meeting may be made only (1) by or at the direction of our Board, or (2) provided that our Board has determined that directors will be elected at the meeting, by a stockholder who is entitled to vote at the meeting and who has complied with the advance notice provisions of the bylaws. The purpose of requiring stockholders to give us advance notice of nominations and other business is to afford our Board a meaningful opportunity to consider the qualifications of the proposed nominees and the advisability of any other proposed business and, to the extent deemed necessary or desirable by our Board, to inform our stockholders and make recommendations about such qualifications or business, as well as to provide a more orderly procedure for conducting meetings of stockholders. Although our bylaws do not give our Board any power to disapprove stockholder nominations for the election of directors or proposals recommending certain action, they may have the effect of precluding a contest for the election of directors or the consideration of stockholder proposals if proper procedures are not followed and of discouraging or deterring a third party from conducting a solicitation of proxies to elect its own slate of directors or to approve its own proposal without regard to whether consideration of such nominees or proposals might be harmful or beneficial to us and our stockholders.

 

Amendments to certificate of incorporation and bylaws.  The DGCL provides generally that the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares entitled to vote on any matter is required to amend a corporation’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws, unless a corporation’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws requires a greater percentage. Our certificate of incorporation provides that the affirmative vote of 75% of the then outstanding shares entitled to vote generally in the election of directors voting together as a single class is required to amend provisions of our certificate of incorporation relating to the classification, size and vacancies of our Board, as well as the removal of directors. However, if 66 2/3% of the continuing directors have approved such amendment or repeal, the affirmative vote for such amendment or repeal shall be a majority of such shares. The affirmative vote of 75% of the then outstanding shares voting together as a single class is required to amend provisions of our certificate of incorporation relating to the calling of a special meeting of stockholders or the ability to amend or repeal the bylaws. Our certificate of incorporation permits our Board to amend or repeal our bylaws, provided that any amendment or repeal shall require the approval of at least 66 2/3% of the continuing directors. The stockholders do not have the right to adopt or repeal the bylaws.

 

Stockholder meetings.  Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide that any action required or permitted to be taken by stockholders at an annual meeting may only be taken if it is properly brought before such meeting. For business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder, the stockholder must provide timely notice to our Secretary. Notice is timely if it is delivered by a nationally recognized courier service or mailed by first class United States mail and received not earlier than 90 days nor more than 120 days in advance of the anniversary of the date our proxy statement was released to stockholders in connection with the previous year’s annual meeting. Action taken at a special meeting of stockholders is limited to the purposes stated in the properly provided notice of meeting. These provisions could have the effect of delaying until the next stockholder meeting actions that are favored by the holders of a majority of our outstanding voting securities.

 

 

Calling of special meetings by stockholders.  Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide that special meetings of the stockholders may only be called by our Board, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer or President.

 

Section 203 of the DGCL.  We are subject to the provisions of Section 203 of the DGCL. In general, these provisions prohibit a Delaware corporation from engaging in any business combination with any interested stockholder for a period of three years following the date that the stockholder became an interested stockholder, unless:

 

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prior to such time, the board of directors approved either the business combination or the transaction which resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder;

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upon consummation of the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested stockholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of the corporation outstanding at the time the transaction commenced; or

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on or after the date the business combination is approved by the board of directors and authorized at a meeting of stockholders, by at least two-thirds of the outstanding voting stock that is not owned by the interested stockholder.

 

Section 203 defines “business combination” to include the following:

 

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any merger or consolidation involving the corporation and the interested stockholder;

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any sale, transfer, pledge or other disposition (in one transaction or a series of transactions) of 10% or more of either the aggregate market value of all the assets of the corporation or the aggregate market value of all the outstanding stock of the corporation involving the interested stockholder;

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subject to certain exceptions, any transaction that results in the issuance or transfer by the corporation of any stock of the corporation to the interested stockholder;

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any transaction involving the corporation that has the effect of increasing the proportionate share of the stock of any class or series of the corporation owned by the interested stockholder; or

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the receipt by the interested stockholder of the benefit of any loans, advances, guarantees, pledges or other financial benefits provided by or through the corporation.

 

In general, Section 203 defines an interested stockholder as any entity or person beneficially owning 15% or more of the outstanding voting stock of the corporation and any entity or person affiliated with or controlling or controlled by any of these entities or persons.

 

The statute could prohibit or delay mergers or other takeover or change in control attempts and, accordingly, may discourage attempts to acquire us.

 

Conflict with 1940 Act.  Our bylaws provide that, if and to the extent that any provision of the DGCL or our bylaws conflict with any provision of the 1940 Act, the applicable provision of the 1940 Act will control.

 

Approval of certain transactions.  To convert us to an open-end investment company, to merge or consolidate us with any entity in a transaction as a result of which the governing documents of the surviving entity do not contain substantially the same anti-takeover provisions as are provided in our certificate of incorporation, to liquidate and dissolve us, or to amend any of the anti-takeover provisions discussed herein, our certificate of incorporation requires the affirmative vote of a majority of our continuing directors followed by the favorable vote of the holders of at least 75% of each affected class or series of our shares, voting separately as a class or series, unless such amendment has been approved by the holders of at least 80% of the then outstanding shares of our capital stock, voting together as a single class. If approved in the foregoing manner, our conversion to an open-end investment company could not occur until 90 days after the stockholders meeting at which such conversion was approved and would also require at least 30 days’ prior notice to all stockholders. As part of any such conversion to an open-end investment company, substantially all of our investment policies and strategies and portfolio would have to be modified to assure the degree of portfolio liquidity required for open-end investment companies. In the event of conversion, the common shares would cease to be listed on any national securities exchange or market system. Stockholders of an open-end investment company may require the company to redeem their shares at any time, except in certain circumstances as authorized by or under the 1940 Act, at their net asset value, less such redemption charge, if any, as might be in effect at the time of a redemption. You should assume that it is not likely that our Board would vote to convert us to an open-end fund.

 

 

The 1940 Act defines “a majority of the outstanding voting securities” as the lesser of a majority of the outstanding shares and 67% of a quorum of a majority of the outstanding shares. For the purposes of calculating “a majority of the outstanding voting securities” under our certificate of incorporation, each class and series of our shares vote together as a single class, except to the extent required by the 1940 Act or our certificate of incorporation, with respect to any class or series of shares. If a separate class vote is required, the applicable proportion of shares of the class or series, voting as a separate class or series, also will be required.

 

Our Board has determined that provisions with respect to our Board and the stockholder voting requirements described above, which voting requirements are greater than the minimum requirements under the DGCL or the 1940 Act, are in the best interest of stockholders generally.

 

It is a default under our Key Facility if (i) a person or group of persons (within the meaning of the Exchange Act) acquires beneficial ownership of 20% or more of our issued and outstanding stock or (ii) during any twelve month period individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted our Board cease for any reason, other than death or disability, to constitute a majority of the directors in office. If either event were to occur, Key could accelerate our repayment obligations under, and/or terminate, our Key Facility. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and capital resources — Current borrowings.”

 

Limitations of liability and indemnification

 

The indemnification of our officers and directors is governed by Section 145 of the DGCL, and our certificate of incorporation and bylaws. Subsection (a) of Section 145 of the DGCL empowers a corporation to indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the corporation) by reason of the fact that the person is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by the person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding if (1) such person acted in good faith, (2) in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation and (3) with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, such person had no reasonable cause to believe the person’s conduct was unlawful.

 

Subsection (b) of Section 145 of the DGCL empowers a corporation to indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the corporation to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that the person is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if such person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the corporation, and except that no indemnification may be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person has been adjudged to be liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent that the Delaware Court of Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought determines upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the Delaware Court of Chancery or such other court deems proper.

 

Section 145 of the DGCL further provides that to the extent that a present or former director or officer is successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to in subsections (a) and (b) of Section 145 of the DGCL, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, such person will be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding. In all cases in which indemnification is permitted under subsections (a) and (b) of Section 145 of the DGCL (unless ordered by a court), it will be made by the corporation only as authorized in the specific case upon a determination that indemnification of the present or former director, officer, employee or agent is proper in the circumstances because the applicable standard of conduct has been met by the party to be indemnified. Such determination must be made, with respect to a person who is a director or officer at the time of such determination, (1) by a majority vote of the directors who are not parties to such action, suit or proceeding, even though less than a quorum, (2) by a committee of such directors designated by majority vote of such directors, even though less than a quorum, (3) if there are no such directors, or if such directors so direct, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion or (4) by the stockholders. The statute authorizes the corporation to pay expenses incurred by an officer or director in advance of the final disposition of a proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the person to whom the advance will be made, to repay the advances if it is ultimately determined that he or she was not entitled to indemnification. Section 145 of the DGCL also provides that indemnification and advancement of expenses permitted under such Section are not to be exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled under any bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors, or otherwise. Section 145 of the DGCL also authorizes the corporation to purchase and maintain liability insurance on behalf of its directors, officers, employees and agents regardless of whether the corporation would have the statutory power to indemnify such persons against the liabilities insured.

 

 

Our certificate of incorporation provides that our directors will not be liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL. Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL provides that the personal liability of a director to a corporation or its stockholders for breach of fiduciary duty as a director may be eliminated except for liability (1) for any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders, (2) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (3) under Section 174 of the DGCL, relating to unlawful payment of distributions or unlawful stock purchases or redemption of stock or (4) for any transaction from which the director derives an improper personal benefit.

 

Under our certificate of incorporation, we fully indemnify any person who was or is involved in any actual or threatened action, suit or proceeding by reason of the fact that such person is or was one of our directors or officers. So long as we are regulated under the 1940 Act, the above indemnification and limitation of liability is limited by the 1940 Act or by any valid rule, regulation or order of the SEC thereunder. The 1940 Act provides, among other things, that a company may not indemnify any director or officer against liability to it or its security holders to which he or she might otherwise be subject by reason of his or her willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office unless a determination is made by final decision of a court, by vote of a majority of a quorum of directors who are disinterested, non-party directors or by independent legal counsel that the liability for which indemnification is sought did not arise out of the foregoing conduct.

 

We have obtained liability insurance for our directors and officers. In addition, we have entered into indemnification agreements with each of our directors and officers in order to effect the foregoing except to the extent that such indemnification would exceed the limitations on indemnification under Section 17(h) of the 1940 Act.

 

 

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED STOCK THAT WE MAY ISSUE

 

Under the terms of our certificate of incorporation, our authorized preferred stock consists of 1,000,000 shares, par value $0.001 per share, of which no shares were outstanding as of June 28, 2021, and our Board is authorized to issue shares of preferred stock in one or more series without stockholder approval. Particular terms of any preferred stock we offer will be described in the prospectus supplement relating to such preferred stock shares.

 

Our Board has discretion to determine the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, including voting rights, dividend rights, conversion rights, redemption privileges and liquidation preferences of each series of preferred stock. Every issuance of preferred stock will be required to comply with the requirements of the 1940 Act. The 1940 Act limits our flexibility as to certain rights and preferences of the preferred stock that our certificate of incorporation may provide and requires, among other things, that (1) immediately after issuance and before any distribution is made with respect to our common stock, and before any purchase of common stock is made, such preferred stock together with all other senior securities must not exceed an amount equal to 50% of our total assets (or 66 2/3% if certain approval and disclosure requirements are met) after deducting the amount of such dividend, distribution or purchase price, as the case may be, (2) the holders of shares of preferred stock, if any are issued, must be entitled as a class to elect two directors at all times and to elect a majority of the directors if and for so long as distributions on the preferred stock are in arrears by two years or more and (3) such shares be cumulative as to distributions and have a complete preference over our common stock to payment of their liquidation preference in the event of a dissolution. Certain matters under the 1940 Act require the separate vote of the holders of any issued and outstanding preferred stock. For example, holders of preferred stock would vote separately from the holders of common stock on a proposal to cease operations as a BDC. The features of the preferred stock will be further limited by the requirements applicable to RICs under the Code. The purpose of authorizing our Board to issue preferred stock and determine its rights and preferences is to eliminate delays associated with a stockholder vote on specific issuances. The issuance of preferred stock, while providing desirable flexibility in connection with providing leverage for our investment program, possible acquisitions and other corporate purposes, could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or could discourage a third party from acquiring, a majority of our outstanding voting stock.

 

For any series of preferred stock that we may issue, our Board will determine, and the prospectus supplement relating to such series will describe:

 

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the designation and number of shares of such series;

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the rate and time at which, and the preferences and conditions under which, any distributions will be paid on shares of such series, as well as whether such distributions are participating or non-participating;

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any provisions relating to convertibility or exchangeability of the shares of such series;

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the rights and preferences, if any, of holders of shares of such series upon our liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs;