Old College Capital

Old College Capital (OCC) is the dedicated in-house venture investment fund of the University of Edinburgh, established to support and accelerate the commercialization of research and innovation stemming from the university's ecosystem. Operating as a key component of Edinburgh Innovations, the University's commercialisation service, OCC plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between academic breakthroughs and market-ready solutions. Its primary mission is to provide growth and development finance to early-stage companies, thereby maximizing the societal and economic impact of the University's extensive research and expertise.

The fund strategically focuses its investments on companies directly spun out or spun up from the University of Edinburgh. Beyond these direct spin-outs, OCC also extends its support to external companies that demonstrate a strong affiliation with the University, such as those founded by alumni or engaging in significant collaborative projects with university departments. Old College Capital typically invests across the Seed to Series A stages, aiming to provide foundational capital that enables nascent ventures to scale. Initial investments generally range from £100,000 to £1,000,000, which translates to approximately $127,000 to $1,270,000 based on recent exchange rates.

A significant aspect of OCC's investment strategy is its commitment to long-term support for its portfolio companies. Beyond the initial cheque, the fund offers substantial follow-on capital, with the capacity to invest up to £3,000,000 (approximately $3,810,000) over the lifetime of a company. This patient capital approach underscores their dedication to nurturing growth and ensuring the sustained development of promising ventures. By leveraging the University's vast network and resources, Old College Capital not only provides financial backing but also strategic guidance, contributing significantly to the vibrant entrepreneurial landscape in Edinburgh and beyond.