About Us
A student-run fund and podcast backing the boldest builders on campus.
Who We Are
18VC was born out of a simple observation: the most ambitious student founders often lack access to the kind of early-stage capital and mentorship that can turn a dorm-room idea into a real company. We set out to change that.
We are a team of students — operators, engineers, designers, and storytellers — who are passionate about venture capital and the startup ecosystem. Through our fund, we write checks at the pre-seed and seed stage into companies founded on campuses across the country. Through our podcast, we share the unfiltered stories of founders and investors who are shaping the future.
Our mission is to be the first believers in the next generation of great college founders. We move fast, stay founder-friendly, and bring more than capital to the table — we bring a community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about 18VC.
What is 18VC?
18VC is a student-run venture capital fund and podcast platform. We invest in early-stage startups founded by college students across the country, and produce a podcast that shares the stories and insights of founders and investors shaping the next generation of companies.
Do founders need to be current college students?
We focus on founders with a strong connection to campus life — current students, recent graduates, dropouts, and teams building out of a university. You don't need to be at any particular school for us to pay attention.
What's the check size?
At our current stage, we typically provide grants of up to $1,000 to support early-stage student founders. We're planning to raise a larger fund from LPs in the future to write bigger checks.
What support do you provide beyond capital?
Beyond funding, we offer mentorship, introductions to our network of investors and industry leaders, help with recruiting, and amplification through our podcast. Our team is embedded in the student startup ecosystem and can connect you with the right people at the right time.
How can I be a guest on the podcast?
We are always looking for inspiring founders and investors to feature on the show. If you have a compelling story to share, reach out through our apply page or contact us on social media. We cover topics ranging from fundraising and product development to personal founder journeys.
Ready to get involved?
Whether you're a founder seeking funding or want to partner with us, we'd love to hear from you.