The New Venture Development team supports startups spun-out from Vanderbilt research by assessing concepts, assisting in company formation, and building relationships with investors. The team also manages licensing equity, serves on boards, oversees the Innovation Catalyst Fund, and leads initiatives like the Entrepreneur-in-Residence program, the Southeast Venture Showcase (SVS), Vanderbilt Venture Partners (VVP), the Entrepreneurs’ Club, and the SpaceEdge Accelerator.
Connecting Ventures and Investors
Launched in 2025, the Vanderbilt Venture Partners program connects Vanderbilt founders with the venture capital community. The program facilitates deeper, more meaningful interactions between faculty entrepreneurs and investors, supporting Vanderbilt innovations in getting their innovations to the market.
Cam Crain, Venture Acceleration Manager, says, "The Venture Partners program is becoming a potent conduit between Vanderbilt startups and early-stage venture investors. Our efforts aim to accelerate Vanderbilt’s innovation pipeline, fostering mutual value creation for faculty and investors alike."
In the past three years, Vanderbilt has launched 29 technology-based startups, including 16 in the fiscal year 2025 alone. VVP provides critical support for these ventures, helping them secure the necessary capital and navigate their growth phases.
Vanderbilt Portfolio Companies
Through the Venture Studio, the CTTC provides comprehensive support services to Vanderbilt-affiliated startups, including business model development and access to funding and talent. With over 40 potential startups in development, the Venture Studio plays a critical role in moving projects from concept to market.