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Dakota Venture Group (DVG) was founded in 2006 in Grand Forks, North Dakota, as the first student-run venture capital fund in the United States. Established with contributions from Bart Holaday and the Dakota Foundation, DVG aims to provide University of North Dakota students with opportunities to engage in venture capital and angel investing. The organization has evolved to become a significant player in the Midwest startup ecosystem.
Currently, DVG manages two primary funds: the Innovation Fund and Harvest Fund I. The Innovation Fund is structured as an Evergreen Fund, designed to empower startups in the Midwest. Harvest Fund I, launched in 2012, focuses on investing in high-growth, early-stage ventures while enhancing student learning through hands-on involvement in due diligence and portfolio management. DVG's commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth in the Midwest is evident in its investment strategy and educational initiatives.
Dakota Venture Group invests in high-growth ventures across the United States, with a particular emphasis on fostering innovation and economic growth in the Midwest. The firm targets multiple sectors, including healthcare, technology, and energy. DVG operates two primary funds: the Innovation Fund, which is an Evergreen Fund aimed at empowering startups, and Harvest Fund I, which focuses on early-stage investments while providing experiential learning opportunities for students.
Investment stages range from Pre-seed to Series A, allowing DVG to engage with startups at various points in their development. The organization seeks to identify and nurture startups that demonstrate potential for significant growth and innovation. DVG's geographic focus is primarily on the Midwest, aligning with its mission to support local entrepreneurs and drive economic development in the region.
Dakota Venture Group's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies across key sectors. The following are notable investments:
These investments reflect DVG's commitment to supporting high-growth ventures that align with its focus on innovation and economic growth in the Midwest. The organization continues to seek out promising startups that can benefit from its funding and resources.
Chase Otterson: Chairman of Dakota Venture Group, Chase has been instrumental in guiding the organization since its inception. His leadership focuses on fostering student engagement and investment strategies.
Kaleb Martin: Managing Director of Investor Relations, Kaleb oversees relationships with investors and partners, ensuring alignment with DVG's mission and goals.
Logan Wieler: Managing Director of Operations, Logan manages the day-to-day operations of DVG, facilitating the investment process and supporting portfolio companies.
Collin Horning: Managing Director of Finance, Collin is responsible for financial oversight and reporting, ensuring the sustainability of DVG's funds.
Trevor Soderholm: Managing Director of Development, Trevor focuses on expanding DVG's reach and impact within the startup community.
Michael Hennen: Chairman Emeritus, Michael has played a key role in DVG's development and continues to provide guidance and support.
To pitch Dakota Venture Group, founders should submit their pitch decks through the designated channel on their website at Get Funded. The pitch deck should include essential elements such as the business model, market analysis, financial projections, and team background. DVG values clarity and conciseness in presentations.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back regarding their submissions. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. DVG encourages startups to reach out and present their ideas, aligning with their mission to empower entrepreneurs.
Dakota Venture Group runs the Harvest Fund II, which aims to promote economic growth in the Midwest through startup funding. This program focuses on sectors such as unmanned aircraft systems, automation, and energy. The fund is designed to support innovative startups that align with DVG's mission of fostering growth and development in the region.
Eligibility for the Harvest Fund II typically includes startups that demonstrate high growth potential and innovation within the targeted sectors. Interested founders can apply through the DVG website for consideration.
In 2023, Dakota Venture Group has continued to promote its mission of providing students with hands-on experience in venture capital. The organization has been actively updating its website to encourage startups to submit pitch decks for funding consideration. DVG remains committed to fostering innovation and economic growth in the Midwest through its investment activities.
Additionally, DVG has been involved in various initiatives aimed at enhancing student learning and engagement in the venture capital space. The organization regularly highlights its portfolio companies and their achievements, showcasing the impact of its investments on the local startup ecosystem.
What are Dakota Venture Group's investment criteria?
Dakota Venture Group focuses on high-growth ventures in sectors such as healthcare, technology, and energy. They invest in companies at various stages, including Pre-seed, Seed, Seed+, and Series A. The firm looks for startups that demonstrate significant growth potential and innovation.
How can I apply or pitch to Dakota Venture Group?
What makes Dakota Venture Group different from other investors?
DVG is unique as it is the first student-run venture capital fund in the United States. This structure allows students to gain hands-on experience in venture capital while providing funding to startups. The organization emphasizes experiential learning alongside investment returns.
What is the geographic scope of Dakota Venture Group's investments?
Dakota Venture Group primarily focuses on investments within the United States, with a strong emphasis on fostering innovation and economic growth in the Midwest.
What is the fund size and check size for investments?
While specific fund sizes are not disclosed, DVG operates two primary funds: the Innovation Fund and Harvest Fund I. Check sizes typically align with early-stage investment standards, focusing on providing sufficient capital to support startup growth.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Dakota Venture Group have?
DVG enhances student learning through hands-on involvement in due diligence and portfolio management. This approach allows them to provide ongoing support to portfolio companies while also educating the next generation of venture capitalists.
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