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.
Van Wickle Ventures (VWV) is a student-run venture capital fund established in 2019, located at Brown University. The fund's primary mission is to support entrepreneurs who are affiliated with Brown, including students, alumni, and faculty. VWV provides a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in venture investing while simultaneously fostering the entrepreneurial ecosystem at the university. Operating as an evergreen fund, VWV reinvests all returns from its investments to ensure ongoing support for the entrepreneurial initiatives within the Brown community. This model not only sustains the fund but also enhances the educational experience for its members, who are actively involved in sourcing and evaluating potential investments.
Since its inception, VWV has made seven investments, focusing on early-stage companies that demonstrate innovative potential and are founded by individuals connected to Brown University. The fund's leadership comprises a team of 20 members, including various vice presidents and associates, who collaborate to identify promising startups and provide them with the necessary resources to succeed. VWV draws inspiration from the success of notable Brown alumni ventures such as Figma, MongoDB, Warby Parker, Casper, and Workday, which serve as benchmarks for the types of innovative companies the fund aims to support.
Van Wickle Ventures specializes in investing in early-stage companies founded by entrepreneurs affiliated with Brown University. The fund's investment strategy is characterized by a holistic educational approach, leveraging the diverse backgrounds and experiences of Brown students to foster innovative thinking. VWV invests between $25,000 and $50,000 in startups, focusing on various stages of development, including pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and series A. This broad investment range allows VWV to support startups at critical junctures in their growth trajectories.
The fund seeks to identify companies that not only demonstrate strong business potential but also align with the values and mission of the Brown community. By emphasizing a connection to Brown, VWV aims to create a supportive network for entrepreneurs, facilitating collaboration and mentorship among founders. The fund's commitment to reinvesting returns ensures that it can continue to support new ventures, thereby contributing to the long-term sustainability of the entrepreneurial ecosystem at Brown University.
Van Wickle Ventures currently holds a portfolio of seven investments, although specific details about these companies are not publicly disclosed. The fund's focus on early-stage startups founded by Brown-affiliated entrepreneurs positions it uniquely within the venture capital landscape. By investing in companies that are closely tied to the university, VWV not only supports individual ventures but also strengthens the broader entrepreneurial community at Brown. The fund's strategy is informed by the success of previous Brown startups, which have achieved significant milestones in their respective industries.
To pitch Van Wickle Ventures, founders should visit their website at vanwickleventures.com to submit their proposals. The fund welcomes pitches from Brown-affiliated entrepreneurs and encourages detailed presentations that outline the business model and potential impact of the startup.
Van Wickle Ventures invests in multiple stages, including pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and series A. This diverse stage focus allows the fund to support startups at various points in their development, providing crucial capital when it is most needed.
Founders interested in pitching to Van Wickle Ventures can do so through their official website at vanwickleventures.com. The fund encourages entrepreneurs to present their ideas and business models, particularly those affiliated with Brown University.
While specific sectors are not detailed, Van Wickle Ventures primarily invests in early-stage companies founded by Brown-affiliated entrepreneurs. The fund is open to a variety of industries, reflecting the diverse interests and expertise of the Brown community.
Van Wickle Ventures typically invests between $25,000 and $50,000 in each startup. This check size is designed to provide meaningful support to early-stage companies while allowing the fund to diversify its portfolio.
Van Wickle Ventures focuses its investments within the United States, particularly targeting startups that have a connection to Brown University, whether through students, alumni, or faculty.
The application process for Van Wickle Ventures involves submitting a pitch through their website. Founders are encouraged to provide detailed information about their business and how it aligns with the fund's mission of supporting Brown-affiliated entrepreneurs.
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.