KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — UT Ventures, a new initiative of the University of Tennessee Research Foundation (UTRF), connects a network of accredited alumni investors from universities across the UT System with startups founded or led by UT alumni, faculty, or students; companies built on UT-owned intellectual property; or companies working closely with one or more UT campuses.
The network is designed to expand the University’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem by creating a flexible and impact-focused way for alumni and friends to invest in UT-related companies – complementing traditional philanthropy.
“UT Ventures is about UT funders for UT founders,” said Maha Krishnamurthy, Ph.D., MBA, UTRF president and CEO. “We’re building a high-impact alumni investment community that connects UT entrepreneurs with capital, mentorship, and educational resources – while giving alumni investors access to meaningful deal flow and a stronger connection to the university.”
UT Ventures officially launched in January 2026 and currently includes 17 founding members, among them Randy Boyd, president of the UT System. As Boyd notes, “UT Ventures is accelerating the growth of UT-related startups by connecting them with capital, seasoned expertise, and a community deeply invested in their success, while amplifying the University of Tennessee’s long-term impact. As a founding member, UT Ventures is instrumental in cultivating meaningful relationships, making strategic investments, and championing ventures that showcase the UT community’s innovation, creativity and entrepreneurial talent.”
A Network Model Built for Flexibility and Engagement
Inspired by peer alumni-investor network models, UT Ventures is organized as a network rather than a traditional fund. UT Ventures membership is flexible and member friendly, with members maintaining sole discretion over their investment choices.
UT Ventures does not charge management fees or carry on investments; instead, members share pro rata costs for the formation of the special purpose vehicle (SPV) when they participate in a deal. The network charges an annual membership fee of $1,500 and does not receive any share of investment returns. Eligibility is open to accredited alumni and friends of any UT campus or institute, and members may reside outside of Tennessee.
Jim Wingett, a UT Martin alum, emphasizes community, “One of the most valuable aspects of UT Ventures is the ability to collaborate with like-minded investors who are equally committed to the success of UT-related startups. This network creates an environment where ideas, experience and opportunities can come together in a meaningful way.”
Deal Process and Operations
UT Ventures is industry-agnostic and geographically flexible within the U.S., sourcing opportunities across sectors ranging from artificial intelligence and software to consumer products. The pipeline of prospective companies is actively being developed, with initial investments expected in the coming months. Target companies are U.S.-based C-corporations raising Seed through Series A funding rounds. Participating members make their own investment decisions and may conduct their own due diligence.
Leadership Support
UT Ventures is a strategic extension of the innovation mission evident across the UT System. As leader of the System’s flagship campus in Knoxville, Chancellor Donde Plowman emphasizes the network’s importance: “UT Ventures will help launch more startups using the knowledge generated by our faculty, students and alumni by matching them with experienced investors with ties to our university. This network not only strengthens opportunities for mentorship and growth but also helps early-stage companies access the capital, insight, and relationships they need to scale and succeed. It’s good for our universities and for economic development in our communities.”
About the University of Tennessee Research Foundation (UTRF)
UTRF is a nonprofit organization that promotes the commercialization of intellectual property created within the UT System. UTRF supports inventors, researchers, and entrepreneurs by facilitating technology transfer, protecting intellectual property, and fostering partnerships that drive innovation and economic growth across the state and beyond. Through its efforts, UTRF helps transform research into real-world solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities. For more information about UTRF, visit utrf.tennessee.edu.
Disclaimer
UT Ventures is not a broker-dealer or investment adviser. UT, UTRF, and UT Ventures do not provide investment advice. Investments involve risk, including possible loss of the full investment amount.
Media Contact:
Rachel Kilpatrick, rkilpat2@tennessee.edu