Let’s build the future of Duke innovation together
Duke Capital Partners leverages the power of the Duke network to support the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. We seek the most audacious Duke founders, investors, and students to build the boldest startups solving the world’s most pressing challenges.
Entrepreneurs
We capitalize on the strength of the global Duke network to provide access to capital, mentorship, and support for Duke-connected portfolio companies.
Students
Our Associate program in venture capital is unique among universities, and students complete our two-year program with live investment experience that is difficult to obtain anywhere else in graduate school.
Investors
For investors with a Duke connection, we facilitate investment opportunities as well as full-circle engagement with the University.
About Duke Capital Partners
Duke Capital Partners is committed to supporting the Duke entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem through education and mentorship, access to capital, and connections to a global base of Duke alumni talent.
We Lead
Trailblazing uncharted territory isn’t easy, but that’s what leaders do. As one of the largest and oldest university investment entities of its kind, Duke Capital Partners consistently places among the top five in North America. We deploy more capital than any other university investment network, and provide full lifecycle support for our founders and portfolio companies.
We Build
Our portfolio companies dream big. They’re working to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges with outrageous ambition. The 44 companies we’ve invested in have a combined enterprise value exceeding $4 billion, have created more than 2,500 jobs, and are pushing against the outer realms of possibility. Audacious ideas breed next-generation innovation.
We Educate
Our Associate program places education at the core of our operations. Since 2015, more than 90 Duke graduate students have completed our program, learning investment sourcing, screening, and diligence.
Our Portfolio
Recent News
Founder Spotlight: Elle Smyth
Elle Smyth, Co-Founder and CEO of RetailReady, embodies the spirit of technical innovation and entrepreneurship fostered here at Duke University.
10 Years, 60 Startups, $105 Million – and Counting: Duke Capital Partners Leads the Way in Alumni Investing
From its start as one of the first alumni-led venture groups of its kind, Duke Capital Partners continues to connect Duke alumni investors with innovative Duke-affiliated startups – and train the next generation of venture…
Breath of Life: Duke Inventors Secure $5M for Novel Oxygenation Startup
Duke clinician partners with Duke engineers to tackle an elusive critical care challenge: Can oxygen be delivered directly into the bloodstream?
Read More about Breath of Life: Duke Inventors Secure $5M for Novel Oxygenation Startup