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Utah Innovation Fund

The Utah Innovation Fund is a state-backed venture capital fund established to support early-stage, deep-tech ventures originating from Utah's universities. It aims to commercialize technologies and enhance the state's economy through strategic investments.

Founded
2023
Recorded stages
Pre Seed
Focus sectors
Frontier, Biotech
Recorded regions
United States

Online destinations

Find Utah Innovation Fund online

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Official links

Pages the organization runs itself.

Overview

The Utah Innovation Fund (UIF) was established in 2023 by the Utah State Legislature as part of the Utah Innovation Lab under the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. Its mission is to provide 'patient capital' to early-stage companies commercializing technologies developed at Utah's higher education institutions. The fund focuses on helping startups demonstrate proof of concept before they seek traditional venture capital funding. With a fund size of $15 million, UIF aims to retain Utah-origin intellectual property and economic benefits within the state, fostering innovation and growth in the local economy.

Focus

UIF focuses on investing in early-stage ventures within the deep-tech sector, particularly those that emerge from academic research. The fund emphasizes connecting these innovations to global markets while providing access to mentorship, networks, and commercialization resources to help founders succeed.

Support

The Utah Innovation Fund provides patient capital to early-stage companies, helping them demonstrate proof of concept before they seek traditional venture capital funding. By focusing on startups with institutional research origins, the fund aims to enhance the commercialization of innovative technologies and support the local economy.

Questions

What types of companies does the Utah Innovation Fund invest in?

The fund focuses on early-stage, deep-tech ventures that originate from Utah's universities and research institutions. It specifically targets companies that emerge from academic research.

What stages of investment does the fund consider?

The Utah Innovation Fund invests primarily in pre-seed, seed, and seed+ (extension) stages, providing crucial early funding to startups.

How does the fund support its portfolio companies?

In addition to financial investment, the fund offers mentorship, access to networks, and commercialization resources to help startups succeed in the market.

What is the geographic focus of the Utah Innovation Fund?

The fund primarily invests in companies based in the United States, with a strong emphasis on ventures originating from Utah.

How can founders pitch their ideas to the fund?

While specific application details are not provided, founders are encouraged to connect with the fund through their university or research institution to explore potential investment opportunities.

What makes the Utah Innovation Fund different from other venture capital firms?

The fund's unique focus on deep-tech ventures emerging from academic research sets it apart, as it aims to bridge the gap between innovative technologies and global markets.

Check your startup’s fit

Check your startup’s fit with Utah Innovation Fund

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