Upstate Upstarts Program Launches Community Investment Fund

News Summary

The Upstate Upstarts program has launched a community investment fund in Greenville, enabling local investors to support early-stage startups through charitable donations. This initiative highlights innovative companies focused on growth and sustainability, with partnerships from organizations like Venture Carolina and Abundance Capital. Contributions to the fund are tax-deductible, fostering a communal effort to enhance the local economy. The program is set to empower entrepreneurs and create sustainable job opportunities in the Upstate region.

Exciting News for Greenville: Upstate Upstarts Program Launches Community Investment Fund

There’s bustling excitement in Greenville, where the Upstate Upstarts program is shaking things up in the entrepreneurial scene. This initiative is all about supporting high-growth, early-stage companies in the Upstate, and now it has launched a fantastic new opportunity for local investors! The community can now contribute to the growth of trailblazing startups through charitable donations.

Invest in Innovation: What is the Upstate Upstarts List?

At the heart of this initiative lies the Upstate Upstarts List, showcasing 100 innovative companies that are making waves in developing cutting-edge technologies and businesses. Think of tech-forward ventures, vibrant e-commerce platforms, and life sciences breakthroughs — these companies are on a mission to transform their fields!

Strong Partnerships Make it Happen

The Upstate Upstarts program is backed by reputable partners including Venture Carolina, VentureSouth, and the Appalachian Regional Commission. Together, these organizations are paving the way for local entrepreneurs to thrive. To further bolster these budding companies, an investment fund has been set up, aptly named the Upstate Upstarts Catalytic Fund.

Community Power: Investing with Purpose

Now here’s the twist: when you invest through this fund, you’re not earning returns for yourself. Instead, any profits generated can be reinvested back into supporting the local economy. This nonprofit venture philanthropy model, coordinated in partnership with Abundance Capital, allows generous donors to actively participate in the future of their community while enhancing their economic landscape.

How Does it Work?

Contributions made to the Catalytic Fund are actually tax-deductible charitable donations. Donors have the exciting opportunity to contribute to a donor-advised fund hosted by Abundance, which in turn will invest in companies featured on the Upstate Upstarts List. Isn’t that an inspiring way to make a difference?

Who Can Participate?

Anyone wishing to make a charitable donation can jump in and support these local entrepreneurs. However, if you’re looking to invest and be part of the growth journey for these high-potential companies, you’ll need to meet the SEC accreditation requirements. The companies on the Upstate Upstarts List are criteria-based; they must be situated in the Upstate, show high growth potential, and have at least $150,000 in annual recurring revenue or a minimum of eight employees.

Focus on Sustainable Growth

Abundance Capital is on the lookout to invest in businesses that contribute positively to their economy, environment, and community. The Upstate Upstarts initiative is refreshing, especially since it not only aims to strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem but also supports innovations across various sectors, including software, hardware, tech-enabled services, and more. Just to note, retail, hospitality, professional services, and real estate ventures won’t be part of the Upstate Upstarts List.

A Broader Initiative to Empower Local Talent

In addition to this fund, there’s another initiative called the UP Employment Initiative, managed by the Barbara Stone Foundation, which aims to create job opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the Upstate. Together, these projects showcase a proactive approach to engaging with the community and fostering inclusive growth.

Getting Involved

Curious about how you can be part of this exciting venture? You can find all the details on how to contribute or invest at abundancecap.org/uu-fund and upstateupstarts.com. Whether you’re a budding philanthropist or a seasoned investor, there’s a place for you in supporting these innovative startups!

Embrace the opportunity to take part in the entrepreneurial renaissance happening right in our backyard. With the Upstate Upstarts program, every donation counts toward creating a thriving ecosystem that helps transform visions into reality!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Greenville’s Life Sciences Industry Poised for Growth
Greenville Launches Upstate Upstarts Fund to Support Local Startups and Investors
Launch of Upstate Upstarts Initiative Aims to Connect Local Tech Startups with Investors
Greenville’s Startup Scene Thrives Under Leadership of VentureSouth’s Paul Clark
Greenville Emerges as a Leading Destination for Early-Stage Tech Investment
Greenville Experiences Boom in Startup Investments Thanks to VentureSouth

Additional Resources

Author: HERE Greenville

HERE Greenville

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