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Wilson Hill Ventures is an independently managed venture capital fund based in Pasadena, California. Founded in 2021, the firm supports entrepreneurs from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and aims to commercialize breakthrough scientific innovations. The fund has a co-investment partnership with Caltech's Seed Fund, aligning its resources with Caltech innovators to foster the development of deep science startups.
Currently, Wilson Hill Ventures manages a portfolio of 14 companies, focusing on various stages of investment from pre-seed to Series C. The firm targets 5-10 new startups annually, with check sizes reaching several million dollars per company. This strategic approach allows Wilson Hill to leverage Caltech's extensive scientific resources and network, enhancing the potential for successful commercialization.
Notable milestones include the initial cohort of five portfolio companies launched in 2021, showcasing the fund's commitment to supporting cutting-edge research and innovation. The firm is well-positioned to capitalize on the advancements emerging from Caltech and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), which is managed by Caltech for NASA.
Wilson Hill Ventures invests in a diverse range of sectors, including artificial intelligence, quantum technology, sustainable energy, mobility, genomics, synthetic biology, life sciences, and blockchain. The firm targets companies at various stages of development, from pre-seed to Series C, ensuring a comprehensive approach to supporting startups as they grow.
The investment strategy emphasizes the commercialization of breakthrough research, particularly those stemming from Caltech's scientific advancements. Wilson Hill Ventures seeks to connect startups with follow-on investors and resources necessary for scaling their innovations. The firm values founders who demonstrate a strong understanding of their technology and market potential, as well as a commitment to leveraging scientific research for practical applications.
Wilson Hill Ventures operates under a co-investment model, partnering closely with Caltech's Seed Fund. This collaboration allows the firm to align its investments with the most promising scientific innovations emerging from Caltech, enhancing the likelihood of successful outcomes for portfolio companies.
Wilson Hill Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 14 companies, each focusing on innovative technologies across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Wilson Hill Ventures' commitment to investing in groundbreaking technologies that leverage scientific advancements, particularly those originating from Caltech.
Michael Borrus - General Partner / Founding Partner; brings decades of experience in deploying venture capital to commercialize breakthrough science.
Jon Feiber - Co-founder; has a strong background in venture capital and technology commercialization.
Jay Chiang - Operating Partner; specializes in operational support and scaling startups.
Ajay Kshatriya - Operating Partner; focuses on strategic partnerships and business development.
Saara Khan - Fellow; involved in research and analysis of emerging technologies.
David Hanzel - Advisor; provides insights on investment strategies and market trends.
Todd Peterson - Advisor; offers expertise in technology commercialization and startup growth.
Amanda Cashin - Advisor; focuses on operational excellence and scaling strategies.
Yvonne Sharpe - Executive Administrator; manages administrative functions and supports the team.
To pitch Wilson Hill Ventures, founders should visit their official website at Wilson Hill Ventures. The pitch deck should include a detailed overview of the business model, market analysis, and how the startup leverages scientific research. A clear articulation of the team’s expertise and the startup's growth potential is essential.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, especially from individuals within the Caltech network or those familiar with the firm.
In 2021, Wilson Hill Ventures announced its formation and launched its initial cohort of five portfolio companies, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to supporting deep science startups. Recent investments include notable companies such as Bohr QT and Port Therapeutics, reflecting the firm's ongoing momentum in the venture capital space.
The firm continues to expand its portfolio, actively seeking new startups that leverage Caltech's scientific advancements. This focus on emerging technologies positions Wilson Hill Ventures as a key player in the venture capital landscape, particularly in sectors like AI, biotech, and sustainable energy.
What are Wilson Hill Ventures' investment criteria?
Wilson Hill Ventures invests in deep science startups that leverage innovations from Caltech. The firm focuses on sectors such as AI, biotech, energy, and mobility, targeting companies at various stages from pre-seed to Series C.
How can I apply or pitch to Wilson Hill Ventures?
Founders can submit their pitches through the official website at Wilson Hill Ventures. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and information on how the startup leverages scientific research.
What makes Wilson Hill Ventures different from other VC firms?
The firm has a unique co-investment partnership with Caltech's Seed Fund, allowing it to align resources with Caltech innovators and focus on the commercialization of breakthrough research.
What is the geographic scope of Wilson Hill Ventures?
Wilson Hill Ventures primarily invests in startups based in the United States, particularly those connected to Caltech.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Wilson Hill Ventures typically invests several million dollars per company, depending on the stage and needs of the startup.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Wilson Hill Ventures have?
The firm provides strategic support to its portfolio companies, leveraging its partnership with Caltech and its extensive network in the scientific community to help startups scale and connect with follow-on investors.
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