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The University Venture Fund (UVF) is a student-run investment fund established in 2004, based at the David Eccles School of Business in Salt Lake City, Utah. It operates under the Venture & Impact Investing Program at the Sorenson Impact Institute. UVF engages students in the investment process, allowing them to source, evaluate, and recommend investment opportunities. The fund has a total asset under management (AUM) of approximately $18.1 million.
UVF has successfully deployed capital through two funds: UVF I and UVF II. UVF I closed in 2004 with $18.2 million, making 24 investments and achieving 10 exits, including 5 IPOs and 6 acquisitions. This fund has contributed to the creation of over 2,500 jobs. UVF II continues the impact-focused investment strategy established by its predecessor, further enhancing the educational experience for students involved.
University Venture Fund specializes in impact investing, primarily targeting the Intermountain West region and beyond. The fund aims to deploy catalytic capital while providing students from institutions such as Brigham Young University and the University of Utah with practical experience in sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities. This hands-on approach allows students to engage directly in the investment process, fostering a deeper understanding of venture capital.
UVF's investment strategy emphasizes the importance of social and economic impact alongside financial returns. The fund seeks to identify startups that align with its mission of creating positive change, ensuring that investments contribute to job creation and economic development in the region.
University Venture Fund has made a total of 24 investments through its UVF I fund, which closed in 2004. Notable exits from this fund include:
These successful exits have not only generated returns for the fund but also contributed to the creation of over 2,500 jobs in the Intermountain West region. UVF II continues to build on this success by deploying capital with a focus on impact investing, although specific portfolio companies from UVF II are not detailed in the provided data.
Jim Sorenson, Investment Committee Member, has extensive experience in venture capital and impact investing.
Meredith Shields, Investment Committee Member, brings a background in finance and entrepreneurship.
Taylor Randall, Investment Committee Member, is known for his expertise in business strategy and development.
Mike Dutton, Investment Committee Member, has a strong background in technology investments.
Brad Dickson, Investment Committee Member, specializes in early-stage company evaluations.
Lewis Hower, Investment Committee Member, focuses on market analysis and investment strategies.
To pitch University Venture Fund, founders should email info@sorensonimpact.com. It is recommended to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and impact potential. Response times may vary, so patience is advised after submission.
As of 2023, University Venture Fund has successfully invested in 18 companies and achieved 3 exits, demonstrating its commitment to both student education and portfolio growth. The fund continues to engage students in the investment process, providing them with valuable experience in venture capital.
UVF remains fully deployed and is not currently seeking new investment opportunities, focusing instead on supporting its existing portfolio companies.
What are the investment criteria for University Venture Fund?
UVF focuses on impact investing, targeting startups that can create social and economic benefits, particularly in the Intermountain West region. The fund looks for companies that align with its mission of generating positive change.
How can I pitch to University Venture Fund?
Founders can reach out via email at info@sorensonimpact.com to initiate a conversation. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck outlining the business model, market opportunity, and impact potential.
What makes University Venture Fund different from other investors?
UVF is unique as it is the largest student-run venture capital fund in the United States. It combines investment activities with educational opportunities for students, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in venture capital.
What is the geographic scope of University Venture Fund?
The fund primarily focuses on the Intermountain West region but is open to opportunities beyond this area, especially those that align with its impact investing thesis.
What is the fund size and check size range?
University Venture Fund has an AUM of approximately $18.1 million. Specific check sizes are not detailed, but the fund typically invests in early-stage companies.
What kind of post-investment involvement does UVF have?
UVF provides mentorship and support to portfolio companies, leveraging the educational background of its student members to assist in various operational aspects.
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