University System of Maryland Momentum Fund

The University System of Maryland (USM) Momentum Fund is a dedicated early-stage venture fund established in 2017 with the explicit mission of commercializing intellectual property developed within the USM's twelve institutions. Based in Baltimore, Maryland, the fund acts as a crucial bridge, transforming groundbreaking academic research and innovation into viable commercial enterprises. Its primary focus is on nurturing promising technology ventures that spin out directly from USM universities, thereby leveraging the vast intellectual capital and research capabilities present across the system.

The fund's investment strategy is tailored to support nascent companies in their critical early stages. It provides initial seed capital to help these startups develop their products, build their teams, and achieve key milestones. While the fund is sector-agnostic in principle, its portfolio naturally reflects the diverse research strengths of USM institutions, encompassing areas such as biotechnology, information technology, engineering, and other deep-tech innovations. This targeted approach ensures that the fund directly contributes to the economic development of Maryland by fostering a vibrant ecosystem for university-born startups.

Since its inception, the USM Momentum Fund has demonstrated a significant commitment to the Maryland innovation landscape. As of early 2024, the fund had deployed over $18 million in capital, supporting a portfolio of 60 companies. Initial investments typically range from $50,000 to $250,000, with the potential for follow-on funding as companies grow and achieve further milestones. This strategic capital, combined with mentorship and access to university resources, positions the Momentum Fund as a vital catalyst for bringing cutting-edge research from lab to market.