WRF Capital

WRF Capital is the venture investment arm of the Washington Research Foundation (WRF), a non-profit organization established in 1981. Based in Seattle, Washington, WRF Capital plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation by commercializing groundbreaking research originating from Washington State universities and research institutions. Their primary mission is to support the development of early-stage companies that leverage intellectual property generated within the state's academic and scientific communities, thereby contributing to economic growth and technological advancement.

The firm maintains a broad investment focus, primarily targeting sectors such as life sciences, biotechnology, clean technology, information technology, and advanced materials. WRF Capital typically invests in companies at the seed to Series A stages, providing crucial early-stage capital and strategic support. They are known for their patient capital approach, often acting as a long-term partner to their portfolio companies, aligning with the foundational mission of the Washington Research Foundation to ensure research translates into tangible societal and economic benefits.

WRF Capital's investment strategy often involves co-investing with other venture capital firms and angel investors, participating in syndicates to provide robust funding rounds. Over its history, WRF Capital has invested more than $100 million into Washington-based startups, demonstrating a significant commitment to the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their initial check sizes for first investments typically range from $250,000 to $1 million, with the capacity for follow-on funding as companies achieve milestones and progress through subsequent rounds. This flexible investment model allows them to support a diverse range of innovative ventures from inception through growth.