Startup Investments
Investing in Washington
As a leading early-stage investor, WRF Capital works with entrepreneurs, research institutions, other investors and industry partners to transform great ideas into successful Washington-based businesses.
In-State Focus
WRF Capital is the investment vehicle for Washington Research Foundation. We invest up to $10 million annually in startup companies based in Washington, with a focus on spinouts from nonprofit research institutions in our state: UW, WSU, Fred Hutch and ISB, among many others. Since 1994 we have invested in 112 local startups.
We are often the first money in, and we partner with angels and VCs over early and later rounds. We can lead investments, syndicating with firms that add value to the team and technology.
Contact Us
If your business or investment opportunity sounds like a good fit for WRF Capital, please contact us at info@wrfcapital.com.
Investment Areas
We prefer to invest in startups developing technologies with life sciences applications. Our portfolio includes companies in the following areas:
Life Sciences
Includes biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and digital health
Information Technology
Includes enterprise software and internet-based solutions that offer innovation with near- and long-term potential
Physical Sciences
Includes advanced materials and scientific instrumentation
Our startup companies support our mission. Their successes create products and services that improve the lives of the public.
We focus on cutting-edge technology spinouts from research institutions.
Our team understands the unique challenges of commercializing new technology, and the risks inherent in advancing it.
Loretta Little, MBA
Ms. Little focuses on investment opportunities in the life sciences, including medical devices, digital health, biotechnology tools and scientific instrumentation.
We have earned our impeccable reputation.
As diligent investors, we pay close attention to detail. And if things get difficult, we don’t shy away from making it right. We invest for long-term success, and support good companies through every stage of growth.
William J. Canestaro, Ph.D., M.Sc.
Dr. Canestaro’s portfolio includes companies across many sectors of WRF Capital’s investment activities, including biotechnology and engineering