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.
IU Ventures is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit affiliate of Indiana University, established in 1997 and based in Bloomington, Indiana. The organization evolved from the Advanced Research and Technology Institute (ARTI) to the Indiana University Research and Technology Corporation (IURTC) in 2007, and was rebranded as IU Ventures in 2017. IU Ventures aims to assist IU students, faculty, staff, and alumni in advancing high-potential new venture opportunities.
Currently, IU Ventures manages an $11 million fund and has invested in over 30 companies. The organization operates from its office located at 642 N Madison St., Suite 113, Bloomington, IN 47404. IU Ventures has a strong focus on fostering an entrepreneurial culture within the IU ecosystem, supporting startups that have strong ties to the university.
Notable milestones include the establishment of various investment programs such as the IU Angel Network, IU Philanthropic Venture Fund, and Innovate Indiana Fund, which collectively aim to support high-potential, IU-affiliated startups. The organization has also been recognized with the Mira Awards for
IU Ventures invests in early-stage startups at the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, particularly those with connections to Indiana University. The firm looks for companies founded by IU alumni, faculty, or students, or those utilizing IU technology. Their investment strategy is implemented through three main programs: the IU Angel Network, the IU Philanthropic Venture Fund, and the Innovate Indiana Fund. Check sizes vary, but the IU Philanthropic Venture Fund has an $11 million fund size, while the Innovate Indiana Fund has fully deployed $10 million in high-potential technology companies.
IU Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 30 companies, including notable names such as Confluence Pharmaceuticals, Nerx BioSciences, Scioto Biosciences, Vascugen, and Ziptility from the IU Philanthropic Venture Fund. The IU Angel Network includes companies like Recess, CarAdvise, and Civic Champs. From the Innovate Indiana Fund, active companies include Apexian and OpenInsights. Notable exits from their portfolio include MBX BioSciences, Encamp, Sharpen, Mentor Collective, Canopy, and Qumulex.
When pitching to IU Ventures, include details about your connection to Indiana University and how your startup aligns with their investment focus. A clear articulation of your business model and potential impact is essential.
IU Ventures operates several key programs, including the IU Philanthropic Venture Fund, which has an $11 million fund size and supports high-potential startups. The IU Angel Network connects community investors with IU-affiliated startups, while the Innovate Indiana Fund has fully deployed $10 million in investments. Additionally, the Shoebox Fund supports early-stage startups developed within the Shoebox incubator.
Recently, IU Ventures announced the 2026 IU Founders & Funders Network Venture Summit and reported an investment by the IU Angel Network in the startup Homefield. These activities highlight their ongoing engagement with the entrepreneurial community.
What types of startups does IU Ventures invest in?
IU Ventures focuses on early-stage startups with strong ties to Indiana University, particularly those founded by alumni or based on IU technology.
How can I apply for funding from IU Ventures?
Startups can connect through the IU Angel Network or apply via the IU Philanthropic Venture Fund and Innovate Indiana Fund, depending on their stage and affiliation.
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.