Holekamp Seed Fund

The Holekamp Seed Fund is a pivotal early-stage funding mechanism for student-led startups originating from Washington University in St. Louis. Administered by the Skandalaris Center for Interdisciplinary Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the fund is specifically designed to foster entrepreneurial activity within the university community. Its primary mission is to provide crucial non-dilutive capital to student ventures, enabling them to transform innovative ideas into viable businesses and achieve critical early milestones. This support is instrumental in helping student entrepreneurs validate their concepts, develop prototypes, and conduct initial market research.

The fund offers non-dilutive grants, meaning student teams receive funding without relinquishing equity in their nascent companies. These grants typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 per venture, providing essential capital for various startup needs, from product development to initial customer acquisition. The Holekamp Seed Fund is a competitive program, with teams often presenting their progress and plans to a panel of judges to secure funding. This structured approach not only provides financial support but also offers valuable mentorship and feedback from experienced entrepreneurs and faculty.

By providing this vital early-stage capital, the Holekamp Seed Fund plays a significant role in nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystem at Washington University. It empowers students across diverse disciplines to pursue their startup ambitions, bridging the gap between academic innovation and commercial viability. The fund serves as a crucial stepping stone for many student ventures, helping them build a foundation strong enough to attract further investment from external angel investors or venture capitalists. Its focus on non-dilutive grants ensures that student founders retain full ownership and control of their companies as they navigate the challenging initial phases of startup growth.