The House Fund
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The House Fund is a pioneering university‑affiliated VC that backs UC Berkeley-linked entrepreneurs at the earliest stage. Since 2016, they’ve deployed small but strategic checks (up to $250K), acting as lead or sole investor to catalyze nascent ventures. Their $12M AI-focused fund, raised in a week, underscores their agility and embedded position within the Cal ecosystem. With ~$2B in follow‑on capital flowing into their portfolio, The House Fund powerfully accelerates Berkeley-born innovation.
Location:
Berkeley, California, USA
Fund Size:
Raised $12M in April 2025 for Berkeley AI spinouts; has funded 50+ companies since 2016, with ~$2B in follow-on funding
Average Check:
Up to $100K for pre-seed; up to $250K for early-stage; also offers $150K for ~7% equity
Stage Focus:
Pre‑Seed and Early‑Stage exclusively for UC Berkeley alumni, faculty, and students; often first investor and provides accelerator support
Household Brands:
Portfolio includes companies like Laurel, MicroByre, Zendar
Contact:
Sydney Thomas (Venture Partner) Sydney@thehouse.fund
Zachary Hargreaves (Managing Partner) Zachary@thehouse.fund