PrimeUC is a venture under the directive of UC President Janet Napolitano, focusing on Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Every PrimeUC gathering aims to offer seed capital to the top-performing start-ups from the University of California. We're looking forward to hosting yearly events in Life Sciences and have aspirations to branch out into Engineering-related events.
A highlight PrimeUC event, in partnership with Johnson & Johnson Innovation and centered on Life Sciences, spanned from July to December 2015. Participants had to go through an application phase which culminated in a final event on December 2nd. Here, shortlisted start-ups had an opportunity to showcase their businesses, mingle with potential investors, and foster relationships with collaborative partners. The climax of the day was the declaration of the grand prize winner who received $150K and three other startups securing runner-up awards of $50K each. These rewards covered areas like Pharmaceuticals, Medical Devices, and Consumer Health. Importantly, these prizes came with no obligations and were generously sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Innovation. Moreover, the top four startups from the 2015 PrimeUC initiative also benefited from legal support valued up to $40,000, courtesy of the UC Hastings Startup Legal Garage.
UC-based entrepreneurs who fit the eligibility profile had until September 25th, 2015 to send in their applications.
For a comprehensive rundown of events leading to the December 2nd culmination, check out our event schedule.
If you have inquiries, don't hesitate to reach out. The PrimeUC initiative is steered by Neena Kadaba, the program's director, and Regis Kelly, the chief advisor on innovation and entrepreneurship at the University of California Office of the President.”