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.
Berkeley Frontier Fund (BFF) is a philanthropic venture capital organization established to align private market incentives with the public benefit of the University of California, Berkeley. Founded with the mission to invest in Berkeley startups, BFF aims to create a sustainable revenue source for the university while supporting its initiatives. The fund is committed to directing 30% of its profits to enhance student programs focused on entrepreneurship, diversity, and inclusion.
Operating under a unique venture and philanthropy model, BFF leverages the extensive Berkeley network to identify and support promising ventures. The fund not only seeks financial returns but also aims to foster a positive impact on the university community. The team comprises a diverse group of investment professionals and a scientific advisory board featuring notable figures from academia and industry, ensuring a well-rounded approach to investment.
Berkeley Frontier Fund specializes in investing in frontier technology startups within North America. The fund utilizes the Berkeley network to identify and support promising ventures, creating a bridge between alumni founders and investors. This model allows alumni to contribute investment opportunities while enhancing their philanthropic contributions through the fund.
BFF's investment strategy is centered on frontier technologies, which encompass a range of innovative sectors. The fund's commitment to directing 30% of its profits to student programs underscores its dual focus on financial returns and social impact. BFF looks for founders who demonstrate a strong connection to the Berkeley community and possess a clear vision for their ventures. The fund's deal structure often involves collaboration with other investors, fostering a supportive environment for portfolio companies.
Richard Chan - Managing Partner. Richard has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in technology startups.
Jacky Chan - Partner. Jacky brings a strong background in finance and entrepreneurship, having worked with various startups in the Bay Area.
Dylan Chiu - Principal. Dylan focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities, leveraging his analytical skills to identify promising ventures.
Mobeen Beria - Senior Associate. Mobeen supports the investment team in due diligence and portfolio management.
Farouk Najjar - Senior Analyst. Farouk conducts market research and analysis to inform investment decisions.
Alice Han - Investment Fellow. Alice assists in deal sourcing and evaluation, contributing to the fund's research efforts.
Belle Tangkuptanon - Investment Fellow. Belle focuses on supporting portfolio companies and enhancing their growth strategies.
Ben Chan - Venture Partner. Ben has a strong background in technology and entrepreneurship, providing valuable insights to the fund.
Jenny Zhang - Venture Partner. Jenny specializes in early-stage investments and has a keen eye for emerging trends.
Melissa Kotterman - Venture Partner. Melissa brings expertise in operational support and strategic planning for startups.
Chethan Ramachandran - Venture Partner. Chethan focuses on building relationships with founders and supporting their growth journeys.
Eliot Sun - Venture Partner. Eliot has a background in technology and finance, contributing to the fund's investment strategy.
Jeremy Hammer - Venture Partner. Jeremy specializes in market analysis and investment strategy development.
Sherry Wong - Venture Partner. Sherry focuses on supporting portfolio companies in scaling their operations.
Steve Felter - Venture Partner. Steve brings a wealth of experience in venture capital and startup growth.
Steven Lam - Venture Partner. Steven specializes in technology investments and has a strong network in the industry.
Sean Zhang - Venture Partner. Sean focuses on early-stage investments and has a deep understanding of the startup ecosystem.
To pitch to Berkeley Frontier Fund, founders should visit their website at berkeleyfrontier.com. The fund prefers pitches that include a clear outline of the startup's mission, its connection to the Berkeley network, and the potential for social impact. Founders should be prepared for a thorough review process, and while specific response times are not disclosed, timely follow-ups are encouraged.
Warm introductions through the Berkeley network can enhance the chances of securing a meeting with the fund. Founders should ensure their pitch deck is concise, focusing on key metrics and the unique value proposition of their venture.
What are Berkeley Frontier Fund's investment criteria?
BFF focuses on frontier technology startups, particularly those connected to the University of California, Berkeley. The fund seeks ventures that demonstrate innovation and potential for significant impact.
How can founders pitch to Berkeley Frontier Fund?
Founders interested in pitching to BFF should visit their website at berkeleyfrontier.com for application details. The fund encourages pitches that highlight the connection to the Berkeley community and the potential for social impact.
What makes Berkeley Frontier Fund different from other VCs?
BFF operates under a venture and philanthropy model, directing 30% of its profits to support student programs at UC Berkeley. This unique approach aligns financial returns with public benefit, distinguishing it from traditional venture capital firms.
What is the geographic focus of Berkeley Frontier Fund?
The fund primarily invests in startups located in North America, particularly those with ties to the Berkeley network.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Portfolio companies benefit from access to the extensive Berkeley network, mentorship from experienced professionals, and potential follow-on investment opportunities. BFF emphasizes collaboration and support for its ventures.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, BFF invests in early-stage startups, typically aligning with the funding needs of frontier technology ventures.
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.