Propel Penn State Seed Fund

Redefining venture capital education

for Smeal

The Propel Penn State Seed Fund is an evergreen investment fund administered by the Farrell Center for Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship. At its core, the Fund is a living classroom, pairing real-world investment opportunities with experiential learning in venture capital for Penn State’s next generation of leaders. Fueled by charitable contributions from our alumni, supporters, and corporate sponsors, the Fund invests in promising seed-stage companies, creating a self-sustaining cycle of educational and economic impact.

Business colleagues discussing business on a glass board in offi

For Students

Gain hands-on VC experience, make real investment recommendations, and build a network that will propel your future.

Get VC Experience

For Startups

Apply for consideration to secure seed investment capital and tap into the talent, resources, and power of the Penn State ecosystem.

Apply for Funding

For Alumni & Partners

Your support fuels student success and startup growth. Discover how you can make an impact as a donor, mentor, or partner.

Invest in the Future

Our Dual Mission

The Propel Penn State Seed Fund is an evergreen investment fund administered by the Farrell Center for Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Smeal College of Business. At its core, the Fund is a living classroom, pairing real-world investment opportunities with experiential learning in venture capital for Penn State’s next generation of leaders. Fueled by charitable contributions from our alumni, supporters, and corporate sponsors, the Fund invests in promising seed-stage companies, creating a self-sustaining cycle of educational and economic impact.

Our Operating Model

Donor Fueled: The Fund is made possible by charitable contributions from Penn State alumni, supporters, and corporate sponsors.

Student Powered: Students drive the investment process by assisting with deal sourcing, conducting due diligence, and making investment recommendations through the Venture Capital Investment Practicum (VCIP).

Professionally Managed: The Seed Fund is administered by the Farrell Center for Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship. All investment activities are subject to multiple levels of internal review and oversight in collaboration with the Office of General Counsel and the Office of Investment Management, ensuring alignment with all University policies and procedures.

Evergreen Structure: All returns from investments are reinvested back into the Seed Fund initiative to support future educational programming and to make new investments, creating a sustainable, long-term impact.

Our Team

The Propel Penn State Seed Fund is led by a dedicated team of faculty and staff from the Smeal College of Business. This team provides oversight and mentorship for all student participants. Members of the Propel Business Advisory Network provide ongoing strategic support to the Seed Fund and serve as mentors, speakers, and advisors to students throughout the VCIP experience and beyond.