The University of Hawai‘i is offering a new, unique, educational opportunity for students who want to learn the venture capital process and startup finance. The Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE) at the UH Shidler College of Business is launching the Calvin Shindo Student Venture Fund, a student-run, seed investment fund for the University of Hawai‘i-affiliated companies.
Previously called the Hoku Scientific Microloan Fund, the program is made possible by the generous gift from Dustin Shindo, the founder of Hoku Scientific. The microloan program was revamped into an equity investment fund and named in honor of Calvin Shindo, Dustin’s father. Investments up to $5,000 are available per venture. A total of $25,000 will be awarded per year from the Fund.
“We are so pleased to have Dustin’s support to develop such an impactful, learning experience for our students,” said Peter Rowan, executive director of PACE. “In addition to providing this transformative education, we’ll be able to provide access to much-needed, seed capital to early-stage companies that are affiliated with the university.”
PACE is currently accepting nominations for students to lead the inaugural Student Screening Committee. Prior experience in venture finance or entrepreneurship is not required. The students will be responsible for the entire investment process including sourcing, qualifying, negotiating, and managing investments. A Fund Board, made up of experienced investors, will oversee the Student Screening Committee and give final approval of all investment recommendations. To learn more, visit pace.shidler.hawaii.edu/venture-fund.
About PACE
Founded in 2000 at the Shidler College of Business, the Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE) is the home for a set of experiential entrepreneurship programs at the University of Hawai‘i (UH). The Center’s 20+ programs offer mentorship, training and resources to all UH students and faculty, and are designed to encourage entrepreneurial thinking across disciplines and inspire entrepreneurs to move their ideas from conceptualization to commercialization. Learn more at pace.shidler.hawaii.edu.
