ABOUT US:
Established as the first university-level venture fund in Nebraska, the Maverick Venture Fund invests seed capital into startups, targeting those founded by UNO students and alumni. Student Analysts perform due diligence, conduct pitch events, and enable local startups to unlock opportunities such as the DED Prototype Grant. Maverick Venture Fund Analysts can choose to participate in the fund like a club, or engage with the fund for three for-credit semesters, all while leveraging key networking opportunities to launch their careers in Omaha’s startup ecosystem. Students become engaged with founders, entrepreneurs, and investors during their time with MVF and continue to build upon these relationships long after they graduate.
The Secret of Success
The Maverick Venture Fund provides experience and opportunities for students that extend beyond campus into the greater Omaha community and across the state.
VISION
INVESTMENT
DIVERSITY
ALUMNI
Semester Breakdown
Open to graduate and undergraduate students of any major. One credit hour per semester (3 semesters maximum) is available, but not required , for students who wish to receive it. Credits count towards business administration (BSAD) entrepreneurship (ENTR) or finance (FNBK), as well as the Investment Science MBA concentration. Please speak with your degree advisor for more information.
First Semester
BSAD 8776/ENTR 4770
The class reads and discusses Venture Deals, Third Edition, by Brad Feld & Jason Mendelson, while receiving mentoring from MVF advisors, MDs, VC professionals, and other analysts. Students will engage with live pitches from entrepreneurs and learn about the investment process through hands-on experience dealing with real companies and multi-thousand dollar deals.
Second Semester
BSAD 8786/ENTR 4780
Each semester builds off the previous one, giving student analysts more experience and confidence in deal flow, screening, pitches, due diligence, and investment decision. Regardless of class level or for-credit status, students are eligible to apply for leadership positions focusing on Marketing, External Communications, and Internal Communications.
Third Semester
BSAD 8796/ENTR 4790
The final for-credit semester does not have to be the last for students! Analysts can continue their MVF membership, participating in the fund as a club, without class credit. Being a member, regardless of class level or for-credit status, provides a strong network, VC competition opportunities, community exposure, direct VC experience, and even a chance at NE VC internships!
