KU Innovation Park launches Oread Angel Investors network to boost Jayhawk startups

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LAWRENCE — A newly announced angel investor network is expected to support high-growth tech and bioscience startups linked to the University of Kansas, said Adam Courtney, opening greater access to capital for companies aligned with the rapidly expanding KU Innovation Park.

Adam Courtney, KU Innovation Park

“The launch of the Oread Angel Investors network is a significant new step in the Park’s mission to create, recruit, grow and retain technology and bioscience businesses in our region,” said Courtney, CEO of KU Innovation Park, which sits just off campus in Lawrence. “Our partners from across KU will help bring this initiative to life and provide vital support to boost our entrepreneurial efforts in the region.” 

The network is intended to create connections with alumni, faculty and friends who are engaged with the university to invest in KU-affiliated startups. The membership-based network allows startups to regularly present investment opportunities to prospective investors. Angels do not commit to a specific fund through the model, but instead make individual investment decisions.

Click here to explore funding and investment offerings through the network.

Angels are typically among the first to invest in a new business, offering not just capital but expertise, mentorship and industry connections, Courtney said.

Wet lab space at the KU Innovation Park in Lawrence; photo courtesy of the KU Innovation Park

An aerial view of the KU Innovation Park in Lawrence; photo courtesy of the KU Innovation Park

The KU Innovation Park team will provide company sourcing, screening and due diligence, member recruitment, event management and communications to members. 

Chris Rehkamp, KU Innovation Park; Startland News photo

“The angel network will engage the extensive alumni community and create new opportunities to invest during the critical early stage for KU-affiliated startups,” said Chris Rehkamp, director of business services for the KU Innovation Park. “This network will provide crucial funding, invaluable mentorship and resources to help startups thrive.” 

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A grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce supported the development of the angel network. The KU Innovation Park is working in partnership with the University of Kansas, the KU Alumni Association and the Digital Health Co/Lab at KU, among others, to amplify the network’s reach and impact. 

The KU Innovation Park is a nonprofit economic development organization and business incubator in Lawrence that already is home to more than 70 companies — including Icorium, InnovaPrep, and Invary (one of Startland News’ Kansas City Startups to Watch in 2024) — that employ 730 people, supporting an annual payroll of $48.5 million.

Click here to learn more about the portfolio of businesses at KU Innovation Park.

It works toward building a more modern, resilient and diverse regional economy for Lawrence, Douglas County and the state of Kansas. A public-private partnership, the KU Innovation Park has four founding partners – Douglas County, the City of Lawrence, the Chamber of Lawrence and the University of Kansas.

From the archives: ‘Brain power’ across the street: How this innovation park hopes to keep university talent in Kansas after graduation