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Harper Court Ventures is a venture capital firm established to commercialize research from the University of Chicago. Founded in May 2025, the firm operates with a fund size of $25 million and is managed by MFV Partners, a Silicon Valley-based deep tech fund. The firm is dedicated to supporting transformative technologies that emerge from the university, particularly in sectors where UChicago excels, such as quantum computing, life sciences, energy, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Currently, Harper Court Ventures targets pre-seed investments, aiming to build a portfolio of approximately 40 startups over three years. The firm is strategically positioned within the University of Chicago ecosystem, leveraging its strong ties to provide portfolio companies with access to cutting-edge research, expert mentorship, and a robust network of alumni and industry connections. This approach is designed to accelerate the growth and commercialization of innovative technologies.
Harper Court Ventures is located in Chicago and primarily focuses on the North American market. The firm has established a notable LP base, including members of the UChicago Board of Trustees and the UChicago Endowment. This backing enhances its credibility and resources, enabling it to effectively support early-stage companies.
Harper Court Ventures specializes in pre-seed investments, primarily targeting startups that emerge from the University of Chicago ecosystem. The firm focuses on sectors such as quantum computing, life sciences, energy, and artificial intelligence (AI). Its investment strategy is centered on supporting early-stage companies that leverage transformative research and are positioned to lead in these fields.
The firm seeks to commercialize breakthrough research from UChicago labs, the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and faculty/student ventures. Harper Court Ventures looks for founders who demonstrate a strong understanding of their technology and market, as well as a commitment to innovation. The firm prefers to invest in companies that have a clear path to commercialization and can benefit from the university's extensive resources and network.
Deal structures typically involve equity investments, with a focus on building long-term partnerships with portfolio companies. Harper Court Ventures is open to co-investment opportunities, particularly with other funds that share a similar focus on deep tech and transformative research.
Harper Court Ventures has a focused portfolio that includes several notable companies:
In addition to its current investments, Harper Court Ventures has previously invested in companies such as PsiQuantum, Agility Robotics, Waze, Sun Mobility, and MapMyIndia. These past investments reflect the firm's commitment to supporting transformative technologies across various sectors, including quantum computing and AI robotics.
Karthee Madasamy - Managing Partner. Karthee has an MBA from Chicago Booth and leads the firm through the MFV Partners platform. He has extensive experience in deep tech investments and has been instrumental in shaping the firm's strategy.
Ayo Roberts - Principal. Ayo plays a key role in sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities within the UChicago ecosystem. His background includes experience in venture capital and technology commercialization.
Steve Gould - Advisor. Steve brings a wealth of knowledge in healthcare and life sciences, providing strategic guidance to portfolio companies in these sectors.
Ashish Gupta - Adviser. Ashish has a strong background in technology and entrepreneurship, contributing to the firm's investment decisions and mentorship efforts.
To pitch Harper Court Ventures, founders should visit their website at harpercourt.vc. The firm prefers pitches that include a clear overview of the technology, market opportunity, and team background. Founders should be ready to discuss their research and how it connects to the firm's focus areas.
While specific application forms are not mentioned, a well-structured pitch deck is essential. Founders can expect a response within a few weeks, depending on the volume of submissions. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly required.
In May 2025, Harper Court Ventures launched with a fund size of $25 million, aimed at supporting deep tech startups emerging from the University of Chicago ecosystem. The firm has begun deploying capital into its portfolio, which includes companies like Flow Medical and SimCare.
Recent investments have focused on pre-seed startups that leverage transformative research in quantum computing, life sciences, energy, and AI. As the firm continues to build its portfolio, it aims to establish itself as a key player in the North American deep tech investment landscape.
What are Harper Court Ventures' investment criteria?
Harper Court Ventures primarily invests in pre-seed startups that emerge from the University of Chicago ecosystem. The firm focuses on sectors such as quantum computing, life sciences, energy, and artificial intelligence. It looks for companies that leverage transformative research and have a clear path to commercialization.
How can I apply or pitch to Harper Court Ventures?
Founders interested in pitching to Harper Court Ventures can visit their website at harpercourt.vc. The firm encourages startups to provide detailed information about their technology, market potential, and team in their pitch.
What makes Harper Court Ventures different from other investors?
Harper Court Ventures is uniquely positioned within the University of Chicago ecosystem, allowing it to leverage cutting-edge research and a strong network of alumni and industry connections. This access provides portfolio companies with significant resources and mentorship opportunities.
What is the geographic scope of Harper Court Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on investments within North America, specifically targeting startups that are part of the University of Chicago ecosystem.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Harper Court Ventures focuses on pre-seed investments, which typically range from $100,000 to $500,000, depending on the startup's needs and potential.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Harper Court Ventures provides portfolio companies with access to expert mentorship, research resources, and a network of industry connections. The firm is committed to supporting the growth and commercialization of its investments.
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