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1842 Studio, also known as the 1842 Fund, is a venture capital fund established in collaboration with the University of Notre Dame. Founded in 2020, the fund is managed by Alloy Partners, previously known as High Alpha Innovation. The fund's name, '1842', signifies the founding year of Notre Dame, highlighting its deep institutional roots and commitment to supporting ventures that align with the university's mission as a global Catholic research institution.
Currently, 1842 Studio manages a fund size of $35 million and focuses on inception and pre-seed stage investments. The fund operates through Notre Dame's IDEA Center, which serves as its commercialization arm, and the 1842 Studio, which acts as a venture studio for software startups. The fund's anchor limited partner is the University of Notre Dame, which provides a unique advantage in terms of deal flow and access to a network of talent and resources.
1842 Studio has a clear mission to address societal challenges through its investments, emphasizing purpose-driven startups that contribute to social good. The fund's approach combines capital investment with operational support, positioning itself as an extension of the teams it partners with.
The 1842 Fund primarily invests in inception and pre-seed stage startups, particularly those that address societal challenges. The fund's investment strategy is deeply aligned with the mission of the University of Notre Dame, focusing on ventures that contribute to sustainable development and social impact. 1842 Studio operates a venture studio model, which allows it to co-create software startups by providing meaningful capital and recruiting experienced entrepreneurs to enhance growth trajectories.
Investment checks typically range from $400,000 to $1 million, targeting startups primarily located in North America, specifically the United States. The sectors of interest include healthcare, fintech, biotech, and commerce. The fund seeks to partner with founders who are committed to addressing pressing societal issues and who demonstrate a strong alignment with the values of Notre Dame.
1842 Studio's dual investment pathways include the IDEA Center track, which focuses on commercializing innovations from Notre Dame faculty and students, and the 1842 Studio track, which emphasizes co-creating startups from scratch in collaboration with industry partners. This model allows the fund to leverage its extensive network of operators, customers, investors, and talent to support the growth of its portfolio companies.
1842 Studio has invested in a diverse range of startups, focusing on those that align with its mission to address societal challenges. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify the fund's commitment to investing in innovative solutions that address critical issues in healthcare, technology, and commerce.
Mike Joslin: Partner at 1842 Studio, Mike has extensive experience in venture capital and startup development. He has a background in managing investments and supporting early-stage companies.
Matt Brady: Member of the Investment Committee, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge in evaluating investment opportunities and guiding portfolio companies towards growth.
Lesa Mitchell: Also a member of the Investment Committee, Lesa has a strong background in entrepreneurship and innovation, contributing to the fund's mission-driven approach.
Elliott Parker: Another key member of the Investment Committee, Elliott specializes in identifying promising startups and providing strategic guidance to founders.
To pitch 1842 Studio, founders should send an email to mike@1842fund.com. It is recommended to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the startup's mission, market opportunity, and alignment with the fund's focus areas. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, depending on the volume of inquiries.
A warm introduction is preferred but not mandatory. The pitch deck should clearly articulate the startup's value proposition and how it addresses societal challenges.
In December 2025, 1842 Studio announced a partnership with the University of Notre Dame and Parkview Health to co-create startups addressing rural health challenges. This initiative aims to launch two venture-backed startups by 2026, furthering the fund's commitment to social impact.
The fund is actively fundraising as of 2025-2026, seeking additional commitments to expand its investment capabilities and support more early-stage startups.
What are the investment criteria for 1842 Studio?
1842 Studio invests in inception and pre-seed stage startups that align with the mission of the University of Notre Dame. The fund focuses on sectors such as healthcare, fintech, biotech, and commerce, particularly those addressing societal challenges.
How can I pitch to 1842 Studio?
Founders can reach out via email at mike@1842fund.com. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck outlining the startup's mission, market opportunity, and alignment with the fund's focus areas.
What makes 1842 Studio different from other venture funds?
1842 Studio combines venture capital with a mission-driven approach, leveraging its affiliation with the University of Notre Dame to support startups that contribute to social good. The fund also operates a venture studio model, providing operational support and access to a network of resources.
What is the typical check size for investments?
The fund typically invests between $400,000 and $1 million in its portfolio companies, focusing on early-stage funding.
What geographic areas does 1842 Studio focus on?
While primarily focused on North America, particularly the United States, the fund is open to opportunities that align with its mission regardless of location.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
1842 Studio positions itself as an extension of the team for its portfolio companies, providing not only capital but also access to a network of operators, customers, investors, and talent to enhance growth potential.
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