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Founded in May 2018, 1855 Capital is a seed and early-stage venture capital fund based in State College, Pennsylvania. The firm focuses on investing in companies that have connections to Penn State University, engaging with faculty, staff, and students involved in research. By utilizing the extensive alumni network, 1855 Capital aims to identify and support innovative startups that can commercialize research and educational outputs from the university.
The fund has a total size of $10 million and currently manages a portfolio of 11 companies. 1855 Capital operates as a privately owned entity and is not directly affiliated with Penn State University. The firm has received notable support from the Penn State Alumni Association, which invested $500,000 in the initial fundraising round. Additionally, 1855 Capital won a U.S. Economic Development Administration Build-to-Scale grant in 2017, further solidifying its commitment to fostering local innovation.
1855 Capital primarily invests in sectors such as advanced materials, healthcare, fintech, and edtech. The fund targets seed and pre-seed stage companies that possess unique technological competencies and scalable business models. Investments typically range from $100,000 to $500,000, with the firm aiming for ownership stakes between 10% and 50% in its portfolio companies.
The investment strategy emphasizes strong alignment with the Penn State community, leveraging the university's research capabilities and alumni network to identify promising startups. 1855 Capital seeks companies that can effectively commercialize innovative technologies and educational outputs, ensuring a focus on impactful and sustainable business models.
1855 Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies, each contributing to various sectors:
This portfolio reflects 1855 Capital's commitment to supporting innovative startups that leverage technology and research, particularly those with ties to Penn State University.
Matt Rhodes: Managing Director at 1855 Capital. Matt has a background in technology commercialization and has been recognized with the inaugural Beecher Loftus Technology Transfer Catalyst Award for his leadership in this area. He is known within the Penn State innovation ecosystem and has played a pivotal role in establishing the firm’s investment strategy.
To pitch to 1855 Capital, founders should utilize the contact information provided on their website. It is advisable to include a comprehensive business plan in the pitch deck, highlighting the startup's connection to Penn State University and its unique value proposition. The firm prefers to receive pitches via email at info@1855capital.com.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions through the Penn State alumni network can enhance the chances of a successful pitch.
In March 2023, 1855 Capital announced its continued commitment to supporting Penn State-affiliated startups, highlighting its portfolio of 11 companies. The firm has been actively engaging with local businesses and entrepreneurs to foster innovation in the region.
In May 2022, 1855 Capital celebrated its fourth anniversary, reflecting on its achievements in supporting early-stage companies and its ongoing efforts to leverage the Penn State alumni network for deal sourcing.
What are the investment criteria for 1855 Capital?
1855 Capital invests in seed and early-stage companies that are connected to Penn State University. The firm focuses on sectors such as advanced materials, healthcare, fintech, and edtech, targeting companies with unique technological competencies and scalable business models.
How can founders apply or pitch to 1855 Capital?
Founders can pitch their ideas to 1855 Capital through their website at 1855capital.com or by emailing info@1855capital.com. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and information about the connection to Penn State University.
What makes 1855 Capital different from other venture capital firms?
1855 Capital's unique connection to Penn State University allows it to leverage a vast alumni network and research resources, providing portfolio companies with valuable insights and support that other firms may not offer.
What is the geographic scope of 1855 Capital's investments?
The firm primarily invests in companies based in the United States, particularly those affiliated with Penn State University.
What is the typical check size for investments?
1855 Capital typically invests between $100,000 and $500,000 in its portfolio companies, aiming for ownership stakes of 10% to 50%.
What kind of post-investment involvement does 1855 Capital have?
1855 Capital actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing mentorship, access to research resources, and connections within the Penn State community to facilitate growth and commercialization.
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