Democratizing Access to Venture Capital Education

Practical training, resources, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, attorneys, and anyone interested in venture capital.

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A joint initiative of

VC University Programs

Join our online course and live programs in emerging venture ecosystems.

Scholarships are available by application for new or aspiring VC investors
from historically underrepresented backgrounds.

Virtual Certificate Program

VC University

VC University is the definitive online course in venture finance. Participants will learn the nuts and bolts of venture and earn a certificate of completion. Course components include lectures, conversations with leading venture capitalists, interactive activities, and networking.

  • Self-paced, online course with live virtual office hours, webinars, and alumni network
  • 10-week recommended schedule (access to course platform for 5 months)
  • Perfect for professionals new to venture capital and practitioners that want to reinforce their understanding of venture fundamentals!
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In-Person Program

VC University LIVE

VC University LIVE is an opportunity to learn about cutting-edge issues in venture capital. Participants connect with local leaders from emerging ecosystems and influencers from Silicon Valley. VC University LIVE has hosted programs in Michigan (UMich), Louisiana (Tulane), Texas (SMU), and North Carolina (UNC Chapel Hill).

  • Live programs with lectures, panel discussions, and interactive sessions
  • Hosted in collaboration with a local university and/or leading regional organizations
  • Perfect for professionals interested in emerging startup ecosystems and anyone looking to explore the latest regional venture trends!
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VC University Programs Create Impact

Our courses have helped participants move their VC careers forward.

3,700+

alumni community

97%

would recommend to a peer

500+

full scholarships awarded

15 / 15

VC University cohorts sold-out since launch

Testimonials

What participants are saying

VC University drew on knowledge from a range of investors and lawyers to build a rigorous course on company formation and development. The curriculum balanced technical information with legal aspects of company formation (IP protection, fiduciary duties, etc.), and was complemented by lunch and learns with industry leaders. I was fortunate to take the course with a number of colleagues; going through the course with a team made it all the more fun!

Morgan Mahlock

The course was a valuable learning experience because it challenged my thinking regarding venture capital finance principles. I have really improved my knowledge in this field. I like how it enabled me to interact with staff, fellow students, and our designated mentors, and the relationships I have maintained post-course have been invaluable. It has also given me the confidence to pursue opportunities in venture capital, which have already proved fruitful.

Loleta Robinson, MD, MBA

VC University was a life-changing experience for me. The program brought my knowledge, skills, and passion for the startup and investing ecosystem to the next level. With skills and insight obtained while attending VC University, I was able to advance my career and eventually get hired by one of my dream jobs. If you’re waiting to apply, stop hesitating! Jump in. This program is absolutely worth it.

Alex Medick

VC University gave me the tools to understand venture and startup financing in a relatable way. As former Director of LatinSF, I worked with 100+ Latin American startups raising funds in the Bay Area. I had empirical knowledge of the process, but zero academic understanding. The legal, technical, and fund nuance info I needed were covered through the course curriculum plus the invaluable office hours and lunch sessions held by top-notch VC’s. They addressed my real industry questions I couldn’t find in podcasts or books.

Jolynn Vallejo

I earned a scholarship to attend, because of the opportunity granted by Venture Forward, and I was able to meet lifelong peers, connect with the speakers, make my voice heard in discussion rooms, and learn from industry leaders.

Allison Murdock

This is a great primer for the complex VC ecosystem! I would recommend it to anyone working in VC or in a startup.

Julia J. Anthony, CPA

VC University LIVE is an excellent foundational introduction to the world of VC. Led by world-class VCs, instructors, and founders, the course strikes the right balance between the practical and theoretical to demystify the industry.

Richard Delgado

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Take your venture career to the next level!