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The Hill Fund is a venture capital organization established in 2025 to support entrepreneurs affiliated with the University of Kansas (KU). Based in Kansas City, the fund is legally structured as Firebrand Ventures III LP and is the first and only venture capital fund dedicated to backing KU-connected founders. Despite its focus on KU, the fund operates independently and is not affiliated with the university.
With a fund size of $40 million, The Hill Fund has made investments in 39 companies, primarily targeting late seed and Series A rounds. The organization aims to facilitate the journey of KU alumni founders from startup to initial public offering (IPO), providing not only capital but also strategic support and resources tailored to their unique needs.
The Hill Fund leverages the university's network and expertise to help startups scale effectively, tapping into an underutilized dealflow channel. This approach aligns with the broader mission of Firebrand Ventures, which seeks to invest in underserved startup ecosystems across North America.
The Hill Fund focuses on investing in startups with strong affiliations to the University of Kansas. This includes companies with Jayhawks on the founding or executive team, those licensing KU technology, and other meaningful relationships with the university. The fund primarily targets late seed and Series A rounds, investing in companies that demonstrate compelling traction and product-market fit.
Investment checks typically range from $500,000 to $1 million, with a strong emphasis on the software sector across diverse industries. The Hill Fund seeks exceptional entrepreneurs building scalable products in underserved startup ecosystems, particularly those connected to KU. The fund's investment thesis highlights the potential of university networks as valuable dealflow channels, aiming to support founders who are positioned to make significant impacts in their respective markets.
The Hill Fund's portfolio includes a variety of innovative companies, with notable examples being:
These companies exemplify the fund's commitment to supporting startups that leverage technology to solve pressing challenges. The Hill Fund has invested in a total of 39 companies, reflecting its active engagement in the startup ecosystem connected to the University of Kansas.
John Fein: Managing Partner at The Hill Fund, John Fein is also the founder of Firebrand Ventures. He previously served as the Managing Director of Techstars Kansas City, where he gained extensive experience in supporting early-stage startups. Fein's expertise lies in identifying and nurturing talent in non-coastal hubs.
Jeremy Tasset: Venture Partner at The Hill Fund, Jeremy Tasset brings a wealth of experience in venture capital and startup development. His background includes working with various startups and providing strategic guidance to help them scale.
Will Manson: Associate at The Hill Fund, Will Manson supports the investment team in evaluating potential portfolio companies and conducting due diligence. His role involves engaging with founders and understanding their business models.
To pitch to The Hill Fund, founders should use the preferred channel available on their website at the-hill-fund.webflow.io. It is important to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the startup's vision, traction, and connection to the University of Kansas. The fund typically reviews submissions promptly, but response times may vary based on the volume of inquiries.
Warm introductions are encouraged, especially from individuals within the KU network, as this can enhance the likelihood of a favorable review.
Since its launch in 2025, The Hill Fund has actively promoted its mission to support KU-connected founders. The fund has made significant strides in facilitating the journey of these entrepreneurs from startup to IPO. Recent updates on their website highlight their focus on leveraging the university's network to enhance the growth of their portfolio companies.
As of now, The Hill Fund has invested in 39 companies, showcasing its commitment to building a strong portfolio of KU-affiliated startups. The fund's unique position as the first dedicated VC for KU-connected founders continues to attract attention within the venture capital community.
What are the investment criteria for The Hill Fund?
The Hill Fund invests in startups with strong affiliations to the University of Kansas, including those with Jayhawks on the founding or executive team, startups licensing KU technology, and those with other meaningful relationships with KU. The fund typically focuses on late seed and Series A rounds.
How can founders apply or pitch to The Hill Fund?
Founders can pitch their startups through the fund's website at the-hill-fund.webflow.io. It is recommended to include detailed information about the startup's traction, product-market fit, and how it connects to the University of Kansas.
What makes The Hill Fund different from other venture capital firms?
The Hill Fund is unique as it is the first and only venture capital fund dedicated to supporting KU-connected founders. This focus allows the fund to leverage the university's network and resources to provide tailored support to its portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of The Hill Fund's investments?
The Hill Fund primarily invests in startups located in the United States, particularly those connected to the University of Kansas. This geographic focus enables the fund to tap into local talent and resources.
What is the typical check size for investments?
The Hill Fund typically invests between $500,000 and $1 million in its portfolio companies, aligning with its focus on late seed and Series A rounds.
What kind of post-investment involvement does The Hill Fund have?
The Hill Fund provides strategic support and resources to its portfolio companies, leveraging the university's network and expertise to help startups scale effectively. This involvement may include mentorship, operational support, and access to additional resources.
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