Hillside STEM invests in Pre-Seed to Series A high-growth companies in SaaS, Healthcare, and Manufacturing Technology. If the company is founded within the University of Connecticut’s startup ecosystem, investments are not limited to the outlined industries. The Fund writes checks ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 and has additional follow-on opportunities for its portfolio companies. 

Students will begin by sourcing deals themselves and conducting due diligence with the support of advisors. Analysts are also divided into expert diligence groups focused on Healthcare, Manufacturing, and Saas, which best prepares them to discern an investable business in each respective industry. The diligence on a particular startup is then presented to the investment board for further analysis, leading to an investment decision.

Hillside provides value to its portfolio companies in several ways. First, affiliated companies will receive validation by the University brand, a top 25 public school and top 50 entrepreneurship school. Preemptive due diligence is also bundled and provided to startups for later-stage funding purposes and potential investors. As our Donors and Advisory Committees are prominent members of the venture community, they may invest in Hillside’s portfolio companies as well. Last, startups are provided the opportunity to utilize University resources, which most notably consists of an endless knowledge base. Hillside analysts further support the growth of a company with educational backgrounds across most disciplines and consulting plans.

At Hillside, it is believed that every student should have the opportunity to take part in meaningful experiences. The fund engages students from an array of backgrounds, promoting inclusivity within venture capital. Hillside leaves a significant impact on future students enrolled at the University, with returns from the fund being used by the School of Business to create more innovative educational opportunities.