Why Now
Our Mission
Jayhawks Investing in Jayhawks
Since 2016, thirteen KU-connected startups have had billion dollar-plus exits, a staggering figure that puts the Jayhawk network on par with powerhouse tech ecosystems. And yet, this founder community has been largely untapped by traditional venture firms. It's time to change that! We offer inside access to the KU ecosystem, a broad network of innovators who now have a fund dedicated just to them.
Whether it’s an AI founder in Lawrence, a cybersecurity innovator in Kansas City, or a fintech CEO in Austin — if they’re a Jayhawk, we want to know them!
Our mission is to deliver top-tier venture returns by investing in the best KU startups, while strengthening the legacy of innovation at the University of Kansas for decades to come. We’re not just deploying capital. We’re building an engine to surface, support, and scale the next generation of KU-connected companies — from late seed through Series A.
“KU’s innovation pipeline is robust and growing. The Hill Fund is a timely and powerful step forward,” said KU Chancellor Doug Girod. “It reflects our university’s commitment to entrepreneurship and will provide crucial support for KU founders charting bold paths.”
The Hill Fund is backed by a variety of limited partners including many prominent KU alumni. We invest in KU-connected founders, which includes startups led by alumni, faculty, staff, and students, as well as those licensing KU tech or closely affiliated with the university in other ways.
“Jayhawk entrepreneurs have long demonstrated world-class vision and grit,” said Heath Peterson, President of the KU Alumni Association. “The Hill Fund gives our alumni network a new way to power what’s next — while keeping KU at the heart of the story.”
