Discovery Capital is an early-stage investment program, sponsored by the Research & Innovation Office, helping breakthrough ideas reach real-world impact. The program supports startups built around licensed UMN technologies by co-investing up to $500,000 per round. This investment is designed to assist in attracting private capital, and accelerating commercialization. Additionally, the program may offer guidance, long-term support, and startups may apply for follow-on rounds to support continued growth.
Since 2015, Discovery Capital has invested $12.2 million in 27 startup companies, across a wide range of fields, including biotechnology, pharmacy, medical devices, agriculture technologies, clean/sustainable technologies, healthcare IT, education technologies, and software.
Timeline & Process
The Discovery Capital process is designed to guide startups through key milestones on the path to investment. After an initial meeting to confirm eligibility, companies submit an application, present to our core team and then present to the Steering Committee for potential investment consideration. If selected to proceed, the startup receives feedback from the Discovery Capital Investment Advisory Board—an external group of industry experts and investors. Once the company secures a lead investor and term sheet, we conduct formal due diligence and move forward with a co-investing up to $500,000 per round. We remain active post-investment, providing updates to our team and exploring opportunities for continued support and follow-on funding.
Introductory Meeting
Meet the Discovery Capital team to confirm eligibility and learn more about the program.
Initial Pitch Screening
Submit application and present to our core team for early feedback.
Steering Committee Pitch
Present to the Discovery Capital Steering Committee for consideration.
Investment Advisory Board
Receive feedback from industry experts and experienced investors.
Secure Lead Investor
Once you’ve secured a lead investor and term sheet, we begin our formal diligence process.
Investment Process
If approved, Discovery Capital makes an investment.
Tracking & Support
We stay engaged post-investment, sharing updates and exploring follow-on opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have a signed license agreement with the University of Minnesota
- License must cover the fields of use in the company’s business plan
- Company must be in good standing with the University and state of incorporation
- Typically has raised less than $500,000 in equity at time of application
- No lead investor is required to apply, but one is needed before investment
Contact the Investment Program Manager, Jackie Mejia ([email protected]), to learn more.
Support the Discovery Capital Program
Want to help fuel the next wave of UMN innovation? Support Discovery Capital by donating through the Discover → Advance → Impact™ initiative.
Your philanthropic investment will:
- Fund innovation and attract top talent at the University
- Create jobs to build the Minnesota economy
- Bring impactful technologies to market
Contact the Venture Center Director, Angie Conley ([email protected]), to learn more.