University of Michigan, Michigan State target funds for Venture Capital from endowments 

The University of Michigan‘s endowment has bolstered its alternative assets with more than $100 million in commitments to venture capital and real estate funds. Separately, Michigan State University reported its latest endowment strategies. The school doubled its commitment to $60 million to an outperforming alternative investment fund run byDrake Capital Advisors. UM plans a new […]

General Mills and 7-Eleven Join the Venture Capital Crowd 

At first glance, the maker of Cheerios and Cocoa Puffs might not fit the image of a cutting-edge venture capital investor. But with the food business moving to healthier offerings and online distribution, General Mills has created a venture capital unit that recently led a $3 million investment in Rhythm Superfoods, a specialty start-up that […]

Ontario Emerging Technologies Fund incentivizes venture investment in early-stage companies

The Ontario Emerging Technologies Fund supports the collaboration between qualified venture capital funds and other private investors into companies working towards: Clean technologies Digital media and information and communications technologies Life sciences and advanced health technologies This discretionary Ontario government funding program is accepting investments made alongside qualified co-investors. Any companies interested in investment must […]

Gap Funding: A critical component of US innovation system

The most critical issue related to crossing the “valley of death” is the availability (or lack thereof) of resources for promising inventions. Perhaps the most significant resource shortage can be found within the University as a basic research breakthrough is disclosed. The best universities are putting specific gap funds and gap programs in place to […]