
Investment Fund Sparks Hope for Clemson Innovators
A new investment fund, Fund That Tiger, is set to invigorate the entrepreneurial landscape for innovators emerging from Clemson University. Co-founded by Clemson alumni Joe Milam and Matt Johnson, the initiative seeks to harness local talent and retain it within the Upstate region, a strategy designed to amplify the burgeoning startup ecosystem.
Empowering Homegrown Talent
The core philosophy behind Fund That Tiger is clear: keep young innovators from getting lured into larger corporate environments before they can explore their entrepreneurial aspirations. "We don’t want Clemson graduates to get seduced into the corporate world without giving it a try," emphasizes Milam. With an initial capital pool of $10 million aimed at nurturing promising startups, the fund is intended to provide Clemson alumni with the necessary financial backing to bring their concepts to fruition.
Addressing Funding Gaps in Upstate SC
Milam and Johnson note that while the Upstate has seen growth in its entrepreneurial scene, there are still significant funding gaps that need to be addressed. The fund aims to target "hair on fire" issues — problem areas that have the potential for substantial growth if solved effectively. By focusing on these critical points, they hope to attract startups rooted in sectors where Clemson's research has already made an impact, including life sciences and advanced materials.
Looking Beyond Borders: A Southeast Focus
Although primarily based in downtown Clemson, the fund anticipates evaluating ventures from across the Southeast. This broad geographical approach allows them to capitalize on diverse talent and innovation within the region. The founders are optimistic about spotting compelling investment opportunities, especially in early-stage ventures that exhibit significant growth potential.
In just a month since its establishment, Fund That Tiger has begun to forge connections and receive enthusiastic responses from the local startup community. This early momentum bodes well for the fund's vision of creating a self-sustaining innovation hub within the Upstate. As the initiative prioritizes homegrown solutions, it presents a robust avenue for connecting innovation with investment.
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