Pitchbook released their 2014 list of top universities for VC-backed entrepreneurs Wednesday morning, which looked at global VC-backed companies that received funding between the dates of January 1, 2009 and August 21, 2014. The ranking compiled with the use of data assessing the number of entrepreneurs, companies and the amount of capital raised at the most prestigious universities producing VC-backed undergrads dubbed three D.C.-area schools among the top 50 institutions that have strong entrepreneurial ties.
The University of Virginia, University of Maryland and Georgetown University all earned mentions on the list. With 81 entrepreneurs, 76 companies and $669 million in capital raised, UVa came in at No. 29. UMd followed close behind at No. 30 with 81 entrepreneurs, 72 companies and $362 million in capital raised. The last of the locals, Georgetown claimed the No. 40 spot with 63 entrepreneurs, 60 companies and $670 million in capital raised.
It wasn't so surprising to find that Georgetown and UMd made the cut. Last year, Georgetown increased its license revenue by $1.7 million. During that same time period, UMd managed to boost its licenses and options, startups, invention disclosures, patent applications and license revenue by $500,000.
While it was disappointing not to see George Mason University or George Washington University recognized by Pitchbook, chances are with continued success both schools will be on the list next year. The universities have made productive strides in the past few years toward bolstering their entrepreneurship programs and offering resources students need to develop their own businesses, which we're beginning to see with David Miller, founding director of Startup Mason and director of entrepreneurship at George Mason, and Jim Chung, founding executive director for innovation and entrepreneurship at GW, paving the way for innovative success on campus.
Take a look at the full Pitchbook list of top 50 undergraduate universities for VC-backed entrepreneurs below:
