About Us

Our Story

Courtyard Ventures is an MBA-led venture fund transforming Berkeley's innovation ecosystem through strategic investments in some of the world’s most visionary founders – at the top-ranking university for producing not only the most startup founders but also the most venture-backed student companies. We focus on early-stage startups across diverse sectors, from AI and deep tech to healthcare and sustainable solutions. Embedded in UC Berkeley's vibrant entrepreneurial landscape, we leverage our unique access to cutting-edge technology and brilliant talent to identify exceptional founders at the earliest stages.

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Since 2021, we've deployed nearly $3M across multiple funds, typically investing $50,000 to $100,000 in startups demonstrating scalability and technological leadership. Our team of general partners, combining academic rigor with practical business acumen, brings hands-on operational and investment experience to support our portfolio companies.

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We offer more than capital – providing direct access to Berkeley's talent pipeline, connections to later-stage investors, and strategic guidance from successful founders and MBA talent. By reinvesting half of our GP carry into campus groups supporting startups, we foster a cycle of innovation and growth within the university community.

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At Courtyard Ventures, we're building a platform for the next generation of world-changing ideas. We offer our LPs the unique opportunity to invest in Berkeley's most promising startups before they reach the broader market, positioning them at the forefront of tomorrow's technological breakthroughs while cultivating future leaders in venture capital and entrepreneurship.