The first and only venture fund focused on investing in KU-connected startups.
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University of Kansas alumni have created one of the top performing startup ecosystems for US universities. We invest in the next wave of Jayhawk success stories.
We back startups with a meaningful connection to KU and connect founders with talent, capital, and customers.
$100+ Billion
Exit value generated by KU alumni-led startups
13
Exits of $1B or more since 2016 by KU alumni-led companies
$10+ Billion
Raised in VC/PE funding by KU alumni-led startups
About Us
TEAM
TEAM
We invest in KU-connected startups, including:
+ Jayhawks on the founding or executive team
+ A strong KU affiliation, such as the KU Innovation Park
+ Startups licensing KU technology
+ Other meaningful relationships with KU.
STAGE
STAGE
Typically Late Seed and Series A rounds, with compelling traction to indicate product-market fit.
SECTOR
SECTOR
We invest primarily in software startups in different sectors that can grow at venture scale.
Investment Criteria
Team
Managing Partner
Kansas City
Operator & Founder of 5 startups, scaled a Fortune 10 division from zero to $2B in revenue, and founded Firebrand Ventures in 2016 after serving as Managing Director for Techstars KC.
Partner
Austin
10 years as an active member of the Austin venture ecosystem and has managed the nation's most active angel network.
Principal Advisor
Boulder
20 years of venture experience, has managed four venture funds, one of which he founded.
Contact Us
Firebrand Ventures III LP (dba The Hill Fund) is solely managed by Firebrand Management LLC and has no affiliation with the University of Kansas. Firebrand Ventures III LP (dba The Hill Fund) and Firebrand Management LLC are separate and independent, legal entities that are not affiliated the University of Kansas. An affiliation with any Firebrand Ventures entity does not create or imply an affiliation with the University of Kansas. The content on this website is not created, controlled, maintained, owned or endorsed by the University of Kansas or its affiliates, trustees, officers, employees or students.