UBC’s venture funds invest risk capital in new and innovative startups founded by UBC students, alumni, faculty and staff.
These early equity investments are key in helping our startups build momentum in their ventures and serve as a bridge to additional outside investment capital. The UBC Venture Funds have been created through the generous charitable contributions of UBC alumni and donors.
They exist to:
- Unlock the potential of new UBC ventures to progress from concept to reality
- Grow BC’s technology sector
- Create positive impact in British Columbia and beyond
- Create rewarding job opportunities for UBC graduates
What we look for
Startups might not be perfect yet, but have some identifiable, exceptional advantage. They may have a scientific breakthrough, intellectual property or a revolutionary business model that they are developing. A good team is in place, although it is likely still growing. Ventures should know why customers value their offering and be working with them to better scope their offering.
How to Support
Funding for the Seed Fund is provided by way of donation from both UBC alumni and others passionate about supporting and building a robust and vibrant technology sector in BC. All future returns from investments made in ventures are returned to the Seed Fund for re-investment into a future generation of UBC startups.
To learn about how you can support the funds contact ubc.venturefunds@ubc.ca.
Investments to date
We tried it and it works. We started small in order to test our thesis that by investing strategically and providing mentorship at key points we could speed and energize the process of turning new ideas and innovations into promising ventures and real impact.
Since starting the seed fund we have invested capital and extensive mentorship into 22 UBC startups.
