FOR ENTREPRENEURS
CAPITAL, COACHING, AND CONNECTIONS FOR HAWKEYE ENTREPRENEURS
Hawkeye Ventures helps eligible University of Iowa and Iowa JPEC-connected startups prepare for investment, access early-stage funding, and connect with experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and student talent.
INVESTMENT FOCUS
SUPPORTING HIGH-POTENTIAL EARLY-STAGE COMPANIES
Hawkeye Ventures invests in early-stage companies with strong growth potential and a clear connection to the University of Iowa or Iowa JPEC.
The fund typically invests between $25,000 and $250,000 in companies from pre-seed through Series A. Because Hawkeye Ventures is not designed to lead rounds or set investment terms, investments will most often be made through SAFE notes, convertible notes, or participation in rounds led by outside investors.
WHO QUALIFIES?
- University of Iowa students
- University of Iowa faculty
- University of Iowa staff
- University of Iowa alumni
- Venture School participants
- Venture Mentoring Services participants
HOW IT WORKS
THE INVESTMENT PROCESS
Founder-friendly, rigorous, and educational. Entrepreneurs receive more than a funding decision — they receive preparation, feedback, and exposure to experienced investors and entrepreneurs.
APPLY
Submit company information, founder background, current stage, funding needs, and University of Iowa or Iowa JPEC connection.
SCREENING INTERVIEW
The Hawkeye Ventures team learns more about the market, team, traction, and funding goals.
DECK PREPARATION
Selected founders work with the team and student fellows to refine materials and prepare for investor-level review.
BOARD PRESENTATION
Founders present to experienced investors and entrepreneurs on the Investment Review Board.
BOARD VOTE
The Investment Review Board votes on whether to move forward with an investment.
FOUNDER SUPPORT BEYOND THE CHECK
Selected companies may receive support in fundraising strategy, pitch deck development, equity and cap table structure, product-market fit, financial modeling, market analysis, sales strategy, marketing, hiring, and investor preparation.
