Washington Research Foundation

Washington Research Foundation (WRF) is a unique private, non-profit organization based in Seattle, Washington, dedicated to supporting the commercialization of groundbreaking technologies originating from Washington State universities and non-profit research institutions. Established in 1981, WRF plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between academic research and market-ready innovations, primarily across life sciences, physical sciences, and information sciences. Its mission is to foster economic development within the state by transforming intellectual property into viable businesses and products.

WRF operates through two primary avenues: WRF Capital, its venture investment arm, and WRF Grants. WRF Capital focuses on providing early-stage, seed funding to promising startups. The typical initial investment from WRF Capital ranges from $250,000 to $750,000, often participating in larger seed rounds alongside other investors. This strategic approach aims to de-risk nascent technologies and help companies achieve critical milestones necessary for subsequent funding rounds. Beyond initial investments, WRF Capital also provides follow-on funding, potentially investing up to $2 million in its portfolio companies as they mature.

Beyond its direct venture investments, WRF has a significant philanthropic impact through its grant-making activities. Since its inception, WRF has provided over $150 million in grants to support research at Washington's institutions, demonstrating its commitment to foundational scientific discovery. Concurrently, its venture arm has invested more than $115 million directly into Washington-based startups, underscoring its dual role as both a grant-maker and an investor. The foundation's robust financial position is underpinned by an endowment that has grown to over $600 million, providing a sustainable base for its long-term initiatives and continued support for innovation in the region.