Wildcat Investor Network
Connecting Wildcat founders, alumni, and investors to build the next generation of high-growth companies.
The Wildcat Investor Network (WIN) is a curated community of University of Arizona alumni, entrepreneurs, and investors who share a common goal: to support and invest in Wildcat-led innovation.
Through WIN, members gain direct access to investment-ready startups emerging from the University of Arizona ecosystem and help founders turn breakthrough ideas into scalable, world-changing companies.
WIN’s Mission
To mobilize the nationwide Wildcat network to support, fund, and scale University of Arizona startups, driving innovation, economic growth, and global impact.
The University of Arizona produces world-class innovation across healthcare, engineering, climate tech, space, optics, mining, and beyond. WIN unites alumni and innovators via a single technology platform as well as in-person pitch and networking events. Through this curated and connected community, the WIN offers opportunities to support portfolio companies beyond capital.
For Prospective Investors
Back the Next Generation of Wildcat Startups
WIN provides a direct path to invest in high-potential, University of Arizona-affiliated companies.
As a WIN member, you get:
- Curated deal flow from UA startups vetted through Tech Launch Arizona and the Wildcat Seed Fund
- First-look access to early-stage and growth-stage opportunities
- Flexible investing through SPVs, invest on a deal-by-deal basis
- Co-investment opportunities alongside experienced investors and alumni
- Direct engagement with founders, technologies, and emerging markets
- Access to exclusive events and founder showcases
- Opportunities to network and collaborate with fellow Wildcats
- A front-row seat to the next generation of Arizona innovation
You’re not committing to a fund. You’re joining a network where you choose when and where to invest.
For Founders
If you are interested in pitching to the Wildcat Investor Network, please contact us here. You may also consider applying to the Wildcat Philanthropic Seed Fund.
How It Works
- Curated Deal Flow: Startups (primarily based on UA IP and often founded by alumni, students, faculty or staff) are sourced through Tech Launch Arizona.
- Diligence & Evaluation: Opportunities are screened and prepared with structured diligence support, allowing investors to focus on fit and conviction.
- Investment via SPVs: Each opportunity is structured as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), enabling members to participate selectively.
- Ongoing Engagement: Members stay connected through pitch events, updates, networking events, and opportunities to support portfolio companies beyond capital.
Who Should Join
WIN is for individuals who want to engage meaningfully in innovation and investing:
- University of Arizona alumni who are accredited investors
- Other supporters of the Wildcat startup ecosystem who are accredited investors
- Family offices with ties to U of A
How To Join
Expand the bar below for details.
1. Submit Your Interest
Complete the short application:
- Share your background and investment interests
- Confirm your desire to engage with the Wildcat startup ecosystem
- Affirm your status as an accredited investor, allowing participation in private investment opportunities in compliance with securities regulations
Accredited Investor Requirement - Participation in WIN investment opportunities requires that members meet the SEC definition of an accredited investor, which generally includes:
- Individuals with income exceeding $200,000 annually (or $300,000 with a spouse/partner) for the past two years, with expectation of the same going forward, OR
Individuals with a net worth over $1 million, excluding primary residence, OR - Certain entities, family offices, or individuals holding qualifying financial licenses (e.g., Series 7, 65, or 82).
2. Membership & Activation
Once approved, pay the $1,000 annual membership dues. These dues support:
- WIN administration
- Platform and deal flow management
- Exclusive WIN networking events and programming
3. Get in the Game
WIN is not a passive network. Members are expected to be engaged by:
- Reviewing curated investment opportunities
- Participating in pitch sessions and investor discussions
- Providing feedback and insights to founders
- Investing selectively in opportunities that align with your interests
Whether you invest in one deal or many, your perspective and participation strengthen the network.
4. Invest on Your Terms
- Invest deal-by-deal through SPVs at your desired amount
- Choose opportunities aligned with your interests and expertise
- Co-invest alongside fellow Wildcats and experienced investors
Back Wildcat founders and be part of a network built on performance, discipline, and results.