Spark Fund

Overview

The Spark Fund is a venture capital initiative supporting early-stage companies emerging from Northeastern University's research initiatives. It offers grants of up to $50,000 to help researchers advance their technologies toward commercialization. The fund focuses on bridging the gap between promising lab results and commercially viable prototypes, enabling researchers to build prototypes, conduct validation, and engage with industry partners. Each award cycle includes multiple grants, with recipients presenting their projects to a panel of industry experts who evaluate their commercial viability. The fund has supported a diverse range of projects, including advancements in intracellular chemistry, advanced robotics, and climate resilience. Since its inception, the Spark Fund has provided over $2.35 million across 42 teams, leading to the creation of 10 spinout companies and 18 licensed or optioned projects. The fund is currently paused due to funding availability but is actively working to relaunch and reopen future funding rounds as resources become available.

Investment Focus

• Applicants must have an invention disclosure submitted to the Center for Research Innovation (CRI), and the CRI must have an initial patent application on file to be considered for Spark Fund.
• Applicants must be Northeastern University researchers with novel, pioneering, and commercially valuable technologies in the proof-of-concept stage.
• At least one Co-PI must be a faculty member with Northeastern University IP who will oversee project progression and awarded funding.

Portfolio Companies