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.
The Technology & Commercialization Board, also known as Innovative Ventures, was established in 1986 by Tom Nastas in Kazakhstan. This government body focuses on technology commercialization and aims to support emerging companies through venture capital, growth capital, and commercialization assistance. The organization is dedicated to helping underserved and under-financed entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of international markets, including Europe, North America, Russia, and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Currently, the Technology & Commercialization Board manages over $500 million in assets under management (AUM) and has a portfolio count of 316 companies. The organization operates internationally, providing funding and support across various sectors. Notable milestones include significant exits such as Neogen Corp., which achieved a $3.2 billion exit value. The board continues to evolve, adapting its strategies to meet the needs of emerging companies in a rapidly changing global market.
Innovative Ventures invests across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, fintech, AI, climate, consumer, biotech, edtech, proptech, energy, and logistics. Their investment strategy encompasses various stages of company development, from innovation grants to Series D funding. The investment amounts range from $100,000 to $10 million, emphasizing the importance of aligning capital types with the specific growth stages and risks of the companies they support.
The organization also provides assistance in international expansion, helping companies manage cultural, legal, and political challenges. This focus on supporting underserved entrepreneurs is central to their investment thesis, which aims to empower those who may lack access to traditional funding sources. The Technology & Commercialization Board's approach combines financial support with strategic guidance, ensuring that portfolio companies are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of entering new markets.
Innovative Ventures has a diverse portfolio that includes notable companies such as:
These companies represent a range of sectors and stages, showcasing the board's commitment to supporting innovative ventures. The organization has also managed investments in various funds and provided advisory services to partners, including the Georgia Innovation and Technology Agency.
Tom Nastas: Founder of the Technology & Commercialization Board, with extensive experience in technology commercialization and venture capital.
Jane Andrew: Technical Writer, responsible for documenting the board's initiatives and portfolio developments.
Jeff Banker: CEO and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Leader, known for his work in fostering entrepreneurial growth and innovation.
Dr. Basheer Chanbasha: Associate Professor and Principal Investigator, contributing academic insights to the board's investment strategies.
Russ Corace: Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, focusing on technology-driven investments and portfolio management.
Claudia Dambax: Fund-of-Fund Business Expert, specializing in fund management and investment strategies.
Bob Forgey: Start-up Founder and COO/CEO, bringing practical experience from the startup ecosystem.
Francis Gloria: VP of International Sales, with expertise in global market expansion.
Gary Hazen: Angel Investor and Mentor, providing guidance to early-stage companies.
Page Heller: Tech Transfer Expert, facilitating the commercialization of technology.
Eric Jacobson: Operational and Financial Leader, overseeing financial strategies and operations.
Brenda Jones: SaaS Business Model Expert, advising on software-as-a-service ventures.
To pitch to the Technology & Commercialization Board, startups should use the preferred channel available on their website at scalingupinnovation.com. The pitch deck should include comprehensive details about the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and the team’s qualifications. It is advisable to clearly outline the funding requirements and how the investment will be utilized.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to receive feedback within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
In recent months, the Technology & Commercialization Board has continued to expand its portfolio, focusing on investments in sectors such as healthcare and fintech. Notable activities include the successful exit of Neogen Corp., which achieved a $3.2 billion valuation, marking a significant milestone for the board.
The organization has also been active in providing support to emerging companies, helping them navigate the complexities of international markets. This includes advisory services and funding for startups looking to expand into North America and Europe.
What are the investment criteria for the Technology & Commercialization Board?
The board invests in emerging companies across various sectors, focusing on those that are underserved and under-financed. They provide funding from $100,000 to $10 million, depending on the stage of development.
How can startups apply or pitch to the Technology & Commercialization Board?
Startups can pitch through the board's website at scalingupinnovation.com. It is recommended to include detailed information about the business model, market potential, and team in the pitch deck.
What makes the Technology & Commercialization Board different from traditional venture capital firms?
This organization operates as a government body focused on technology commercialization, providing not only financial support but also strategic guidance for international expansion, which is often not available from traditional VCs.
What is the geographic scope of the Technology & Commercialization Board's investments?
The board invests globally, with a specific focus on North America, Europe, Russia, and Sub-Saharan Africa, helping companies navigate the complexities of these diverse markets.
What is the board's approach to post-investment involvement?
Innovative Ventures provides ongoing support to portfolio companies, assisting them in managing cultural, legal, and political challenges associated with international expansion.
What is the typical check size for investments?
The Technology & Commercialization Board typically invests between $100,000 and $10 million, depending on the specific needs and stage of the company.
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.