Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
1834 Ventures is a venture capital firm located in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 2025. The firm was established to support and invest in innovative business opportunities emerging from the Tulane University community, which includes alumni, faculty, students, and other associated individuals. Operating as 1834 Ventures Fund I, L.P., it is a Delaware limited partnership with Louisiana Economic Development as a limited partner. Despite its name referencing the founding year of Tulane University, 1834 Ventures is not officially affiliated with the institution.
The firm has a target fund size of $20 million and has successfully reached 50% of this target within six months of its launch, securing $4.4 million from 30 investors across 11 states. Notable anchor limited partners include the Collins C. Diboll Foundation and the Priddy Family Foundation. 1834 Ventures focuses on scalable businesses that contribute to innovation and talent retention within Louisiana.
1834 Ventures specializes in investing in early-stage startups founded by members of the Tulane University community. The firm targets companies in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. It operates primarily at the pre-seed to Series A stages, with check sizes ranging from $50,000 to $1 million. The firm is designated as an SSBCI fund, indicating its commitment to supporting local economic development in Louisiana.
Investment decisions are guided by a thesis that emphasizes the importance of innovation and talent retention within the state. 1834 Ventures seeks scalable businesses that can leverage the unique resources and networks available through the Tulane community. The firm values founders who demonstrate a strong connection to Tulane University, whether as alumni, faculty, or extended community members.
1834 Ventures has made four notable investments in its portfolio, focusing on innovative startups that align with its investment thesis. The companies include:
These companies exemplify the firm's focus on sectors that drive innovation and address critical challenges in society.
Evan Nicoll - Co-Founder & Managing Partner. Evan is a Tulane alum with a Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM '12) and an MBA ('16). He has experience in venture investment and serves as a mentor at the Tulane Innovation Institute.
Patrick Hernandez - Co-Founder & Managing Partner. Patrick focuses on portfolio development, investor relations, and partnership-building within Louisiana's early-stage ecosystem. His expertise lies in fostering connections that enhance the growth potential of portfolio companies.
To pitch to 1834 Ventures, founders should use the application portal available at this link. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background. Founders are encouraged to provide detailed financial projections and highlight their connection to the Tulane University community. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission.
In April 2026, 1834 Ventures announced that it had successfully reached 50% of its $20 million target fund size, securing $4.4 million from 30 investors across 11 states. This milestone highlights the firm's strong support from the investment community.
Additionally, 1834 Ventures has been featured in various media outlets, including Biz New Orleans and NOLA.com, emphasizing its mission to support Tulane University-affiliated startups and contribute to local economic development.
What are the investment criteria for 1834 Ventures?
1834 Ventures invests in early-stage startups founded by members of the Tulane University community, including alumni, faculty, and students. The firm focuses on scalable businesses in sectors such as energy, AI, and biotech.
How can I apply or pitch to 1834 Ventures?
Founders can apply for funding through the firm's application portal at this link. It is recommended to provide a detailed business plan and highlight the connection to the Tulane community.
What makes 1834 Ventures different from other VC firms?
The firm is uniquely focused on supporting startups that emerge from the Tulane University network, fostering local economic development and innovation in Louisiana.
What is the geographic scope of 1834 Ventures?
1834 Ventures primarily invests in startups based in the United States, with a specific emphasis on those connected to the Tulane University community.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
The firm has a target fund size of $20 million, with individual check sizes ranging from $50,000 to $1 million.
What type of post-investment involvement does 1834 Ventures have?
1834 Ventures provides strategic support to its portfolio companies, leveraging connections within the Tulane University network and the broader Louisiana entrepreneurial ecosystem to foster growth and innovation.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.