Carmen Ventures

Overview

Carmen Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Columbus, Ohio, focusing on deep technology ventures affiliated with The Ohio State University. The firm leverages the university's extensive resources and network to provide capital, mentorship, and technical expertise to emerging companies aiming to transform society positively. Carmen Ventures primarily invests in sectors such as mobility, life sciences, agricultural technology, advanced materials, clean energy, and applied IT & AI. The firm's investment strategy centers on companies founded, led, or substantially backed by OSU alumni, those utilizing OSU's intellectual property, and Ohio-based ventures that can strategically benefit from OSU's resources and alumni network. Carmen Ventures typically invests between $1 million and $5 million in seed and early-stage companies, emphasizing active partnerships and hands-on support to drive positive outcomes from day one. Carmen Ventures distinguishes itself by offering unmatched access to technical expertise through its relationships with OSU's colleges and renowned researchers. The firm also provides transformative introductions to customers, partners, and potential acquirers within the 650,000-member alumni network, aiming to profoundly alter the course of a company's trajectory early on. This approach reflects Carmen Ventures' commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the Buckeye community and beyond.

Investment Focus

• Companies affiliated with The Ohio State University
• Deep technology ventures
• Seed and early-stage companies

Portfolio Companies