Harper Court Ventures Launches $25 Million Fund I: Empowering Innovation in the University of Chicago Ecosystem

MFV Partners, a venture capital firm focused on deep technology, has introduced the Harper Court Ventures Fund I, a $25 million fund aimed at early-stage startups emerging from the University of Chicago ecosystem. This fund will support pre-seed and seed-stage companies that leverage innovative research and advancements from UChicago’s labs, the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship, and its expansive alumni network.

With a formal partnership with the University, MFV Partners aims to apply its investment strategies and support to startups in impactful sectors like quantum computing, life sciences, energy, and artificial intelligence.

The fund plans to back around 40 startups over the next three years. Notable investors include members from UChicago’s Board of Trustees and the university’s endowment fund.

A few early investments include:

• Flow Medical: Founded by UChicago Medical Center physicians and a Chicago Booth alumnus, this startup is working on a catheter-based therapy for acute pulmonary embolism.
• SimCare AI: Led by former UChicago students, this company is creating a platform for clinical skills training using AI-generated patient interactions.
• Beacon: Another Chicago Booth graduate, Beacon focuses on technology that makes environments safe by eliminating harmful microorganisms from air and surfaces.

Launched in 2018 and based in Silicon Valley, MFV Partners has a history of supporting early-stage startups across various deep-tech sectors. The team, led by Karthee Madasamy, has extensive experience and a track record of successful investments.

The University of Chicago features a robust innovation ecosystem, with over 160 interdisciplinary institutes and centers, as well as two national laboratories: Argonne National Laboratory and Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. Such resources provide a fertile ground for startup growth.

Looking ahead, Harper Court Ventures will collaborate with the Polsky Center to identify new startups, enhancing the potential for breakthroughs in technology and science. Recent data shows that venture capital investment in deep tech has surged by 30% over the past year, demonstrating growing interest and opportunities in this field.

As Madasamy noted, “Our goal is to solidify Chicago as a hub for deep tech.” This collaboration aims not only to leverage the university’s reputation but also to foster innovation that can drive societal benefits.

With this fund, the University of Chicago is set to take bold steps towards transforming ideas into impactful solutions in fields that matter. It’s an exciting time for entrepreneurs looking to make a mark in high-tech industries.

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Harper Court Ventures,MFV Partners