The University System of Maryland's (USM) $16 million Momentum Fund initiative provides investment funding for promising technology ventures born out of USM's 12 constituent institutions. The Maryland Momentum Fund is positioned to uniquely provide “gap funding” to companies that, with co-investment, can achieve specific milestones and be positioned for a successful A-round of financing within 12-24 months. Companies receive feedback throughout. If not selected, companies are connected with other resources and encouraged to come back when better positioned for the funding.
The Maryland Momentum Fund's total investment (including from university investments): $10,937,500
Ratio of invested by co-investors/MMF investment: 7.33
Maryland Momentum Portfolio Companies
Use Maryland Momentum Fund to…
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Find and invest in startups
A requirement for all companies selected for investment is that they identify 1:1 matching funds. If you are interested in investing in a startup selected by the Maryland Momentum Fund, please contact mdmomentum@usmd.edu.
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Identify/apply for funding & grants
Companies that meet the minimum qualifications for the USM Maryland Momentum Fund are encouraged to apply. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis throughout the year and will be evaluated as they are received. One or two companies will be recommended for investment each quarter. The Momentum Fund will make investments in the range of $150,000 to $250,000, with a maximum of $500k. Matching funds will be in addition to the Momentum Fund investment.
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Partner with UMD more broadly
In addition to the Maryland Momentum Fund, the USM’s Office of Economic Development supports, finances, and promotes early stage business ventures through a variety of initiatives, including UM Ventures, the Center for Maryland Advanced Ventures, and the research parks of the University of Maryland, Baltimore, University of Maryland, College Park, and University of Maryland Baltimore County.