We are pleased to announce that Angie Conley has been appointed as the Director of the Venture Center at the University of Minnesota. With over 20 years of experience in the medical device industry and first-hand experience in startup leadership, product commercialization, and investment strategy, Angie is the ideal leader to guide the Venture Center in its next phase of growth.
The Venture Center, established in 2006, plays a critical role in the University’s Technology Commercialization office, focusing on translating innovative research into viable, high-impact startups. Since its inception, the Venture Center has helped launch 270+ startups and maintains a consistent run rate of 20-25 new startups annually, making it an essential part of Minnesota’s innovation ecosystem. The Venture Center offers comprehensive support for UMN-affiliated startups, including access to funding, mentorship, and resources, while fostering connections with the local and national innovation communities.
In her new role, Angie will report to the Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation and will have overall leadership responsibility for the Venture Center. She will provide strategic direction, oversee day-to-day operations, and lead the team, while contributing to the broader strategies for Technology Commercialization and the Research and Innovation Office (RIO).
Angie’s impressive background, including her experience as a Founder and CEO, and as a consultant for several startups, makes her an excellent fit to lead this critical University of Minnesota effort. Her experience in scaling a company, securing investments, driving product development, and building strategic partnerships will significantly contribute to the University’s continued success in creating impactful startups from innovative research.
We are thrilled to have Angie join the team and look forward to the impact she will make in supporting UMN’s mission to create breakthrough innovations and accelerate the growth of new startups.
Welcome, Angie!
To learn more about the Venture Center’s work and its role in Technology Commercialization, visit techcomm.umn.edu.