Innovation Works Seed Fund

Innovation Works Seed Fund is the firm's direct investment vehicle for early-stage technology startups in southwestern Pennsylvania. It sits downstream from AlphaLab and is designed to back companies once there is a scalable idea and evidence of market demand. The fund accepts companies on a rolling basis. Initial checks run from $150,000 to $250,000, with total follow-on investment reaching as much as $800,000. Since 1999, the fund has deployed $93 million across 372 companies. It covers pre-seed through Series A, with no sector restriction beyond the need for a scalable technology opportunity and a dedicated team. The fit is strongest for for-profit technology companies that can show both ambition and traction, especially those with a clear regional plan and a team ready for active engagement with Innovation Works. AlphaLab graduates are a natural source of follow-on opportunities, so the fund functions as a venture step after accelerator momentum rather than as a general-purpose grant program.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.