Harper Court Ventures

Harper Court Ventures is an early-stage deep tech venture fund dedicated to accelerating the commercialization of groundbreaking technologies originating from the University of Chicago ecosystem. The firm focuses its investments on transformative research in key areas such as quantum computing, life sciences, energy, and artificial intelligence. By backing pre-seed startups, Harper Court Ventures aims to generate long-term value for the University, its alumni, and the broader community, fostering innovation within the Midwest and beyond.

The firm officially launched its Fund I with $25 million on May 29, 2025, with the explicit goal of supporting University of Chicago deep tech startups. Harper Court Ventures is independently managed by MFV Partners, a prominent Silicon Valley deep tech fund. This strategic partnership leverages MFV Partners' proven investment approaches and portfolio support to nurture early-stage ventures emerging from UChicago labs, the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and the extensive alumni network.

Harper Court Ventures invests in bold, early-stage startups. Its Fund I portfolio includes companies like NoMo AI (AI, Data), OrisDX (Health, Life Sciences), Flow Medical (Health, Life Sciences), SimCare AI (AI, Life Sciences), and Beacon Health (Life Sciences). These investments reflect the firm's commitment to science- and technology-driven companies poised to create or lead new categories in large markets.

The investment team is led by Karthee Madasamy, a University of Chicago Booth alum and veteran deep tech investor with a strong track record in quantum, AI, energy, and robotics. Ayo Roberts serves as a Principal, with Steve Gould and Ashish Gupta acting as advisors. The team brings together seasoned investors, technologists, and founders with extensive experience in scaling breakthrough innovations, providing visionary startups with the insight and support needed to succeed in their respective fields.