UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Propel Penn State Seed Fund, administered by the Farrell Center for Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Penn State Smeal College of Business, is now accepting startup applications for the fall 2025 investment cycle.
The deadline to apply is Sept. 29.
The Propel Penn State Seed Fund will invest in at least one early-stage startup this fall, with check sizes ranging from $50,000 to $100,000. U.S.-based early-stage companies are welcome to apply. While the fund prefers startups that are affiliated with Penn State or have operations in Pennsylvania, this is not a requirement for investment consideration. All investment activity is subject to University policies and procedures.
More information and the startup funding application can be found online.
The recently launched Propel Penn State Seed Fund is designed to support promising startups while providing experiential learning opportunities for undergraduate students. Through a 10-week learning program, students participate in the due diligence process, gaining real-world exposure to venture capital and startup evaluation. The Propel Penn State Seed Fund is funded by philanthropic gifts from Penn State alumni and friends as well as corporate sponsorships.
“Our dual mission is to invest in startups while providing experiential learning and industry connectivity for our students,” said Michael Zaydon, fund manager and administrator of the Propel Penn State Seed Fund. “Investment from this fund is more than just capital. It’s a chance to connect with the Penn State ecosystem and to engage with a talented team of students, faculty and alumni who bring fresh perspectives and deep commitment to supporting innovators and entrepreneurs.”
The Propel Seed Fund is modeled after the Garber Venture Capital Fund, which has operated at Penn State for more than 25 years. The Garber Fund has invested more than $3.5 million into startups and currently maintains 15 active portfolio companies, with graduate students leading the diligence and investment process via the MGMT 870 Entrepreneurial Finance online course.
Who should apply
The Propel Penn State Seed Fund seeks seed-stage companies that meet the following criteria:
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Established as a legal entity in the U.S.
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Dedicated founder team.
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A minimum viable product (MVP) has been developed.
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Early understanding of target market and customers.
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Annual revenue between $0 and $1 million.
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Current funding need between $50,000 and $2 million.
“We recognize that our investment process, which involves students, differs from conventional venture investment processes,” Zaydon said. “While our process may have different timing and dynamics versus other private investor processes, we’re confident that startups will see the value of having Penn State on their cap tables should they be selected for investment.”
Apply now
Startups who align with the Propel Penn State Seed Fund’s criteria are encouraged to apply for the fall 2025 cycle by Sept. 29.
Click here to learn more about the fund’s investment criteria, process, timeline and application.