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Founders Pledge

                             See Who Took the Pledge - coming soon                           FAQ


shircliff portraitThe Founders Pledge honors the next generation of entrepreneurial philanthropists. Integral to this giving society is a mutual commitment between select entrepreneurs at СÀ¶ÊÓƵ. This commitment takes the form of pledged time and funding for СÀ¶ÊÓƵ, as well as support, networks, and engagement for entrepreneurs. The society actively brings together a community of entrepreneurs and innovators who collectively pool their talent, networks, and capital to support one another, the University, and the innovation ecosystem that begins at СÀ¶ÊÓƵ.


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The JU Founders Pledge allows you to signal your intention to empower altruism as you progress toward financial milestones on your entrepreneurial journey, connecting with university resources and other JU Founders to leverage talent and networks.
Pledging a portion of your personal proceeds now from your venture’s future success—perhaps upon liquidity—is a proven approach to holding yourself accountable to your charitable ideals at a time when the demands of running your business consume your focus. It also sends a powerful message to your fellow entrepreneurs that giving back should be the norm, not the exception.
СÀ¶ÊÓƵ supports a vibrant ecosystem of entrepreneurs and innovators, and many of today’s most successful entrepreneurs view their JU education as pivotal to their achievements. If you do not have a specific area of interest, staff can curate opportunities that fit your passion and values.

FAQ's

What is the Founders Pledge?
The Founders Pledge is a non-binding pledge made by a for a portion of the equity stake in his or her start-up. The founder commits to making a gift of cash or publicly traded shares of the pledged equity at the time of a liquidity event (sale, merger, IPO, etc.).  There is no immediate asset transfer upon the signing of the pledge, but rather a commitment to give back to the institution after a liquidity event.


Who is it for?
The founder, co-founder, or investor of a growth-oriented or venture-backed start-up who wants to partner with СÀ¶ÊÓƵ to make a wave of a difference in the lives of our current students and generations of students to come.


How does it work?
The Founders Pledge members have full control over the timing, amount, and designation of their gift. Our team is ready to work with you over the life of the pledge to help you determine where you would like to direct your support. It’s an easy, low-risk, and rewarding way to join a community of entrepreneurs who have publicly committed to СÀ¶ÊÓƵ.


Why would I want to do this?
When you sign the Founders Pledge and commit to supporting СÀ¶ÊÓƵ, you join an exceptional community of alumni entrepreneurs and trailblazers passionate about JU’s programs, research, and mission. It’s also a low-risk, non-binding, and tax-efficient way to support СÀ¶ÊÓƵ and its community. You will also gain potential opportunities to give back in the form of speaking, advising or advisory board leadership, invitations to events with СÀ¶ÊÓƵ leadership, and internal stakeholders. We are excited to have you help us transform students' lives today, for tomorrow.