The Pre-Seed Capital Fund assists UVM innovators in developing initial prototypes or preliminary business plans to improve the probability of attracting additional funding and market interest. UVM faculty, staff, and students are eligible to apply by completing a Pre-Seed Capital Fund application form.
Read more about the Pre-Seed Fund.
Learn how to complete and sign an interactive PDF.
Download and complete the Pre-Seed Fund application form (interactive PDF).
The Innovations Fund facilitates development and final validation of prototypes and other proof-of-principle work, increasing the readiness and potential of innovations for the next stages of investment and commercialization. UVM faculty, staff, and students are eligible to apply for an Innovations Fund grant by completing the Innovations Fund application form.
A Convertible Promissory Note is required for an Innovations Fund award (see below).
Read more about the Innovations Fund.
Learn how to complete and sign an interactive PDF.
Download and complete the Innovations Fund application form (interactive PDF).
A Convertible Promissory Note is a contractual agreement for a loan. UVM requires this type of loan for Innovations Fund receipients who create start-up firms to develop and market their technologies.
The university collects interest on the loan or may convert it into additional equity. Safeguards are provided for companies that do not become financially viable.
Sample of a Convertible Promissory Note
UVM may enter into an agreement with a private sector entity to sponsor an investigator's research. The sample agreement provided below, which investigators may share with potential sponsors, contains the standard terms and conditions under which the University enters into research sponsorship agreements. However, please note that actual agreements must include signatures of the authorized officials of both parties and are subject to standard University policies in areas such as internal approvals and budgeting.
Sample of a research sponsorship agreement.