Dakota Venture Group

What is Dakota Venture Group?

Dakota Venture Group (DVG) is a unique venture capital investment fund, distinctively known for being the first student-run venture capital fund, located in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Established in 2006 and operated by University of North Dakota students, DVG focuses on making venture capital and angel investments in high-growth ventures throughout the United States.

A significant emphasis is placed on supporting regional ventures and those initiated by students. DVG disrupts the traditional venture capital model by allowing early engagement for students in the venture capital and angel investing sectors. They pride themselves on delivering a compelling return on investment through expert analysis, rigorous due diligence, and strategic capital allocation.

Their commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth is particularly strong in the Midwest due to the region's diverse economy, robust infrastructure, and skilled workforce. DVG also places a high value on experiential learning, offering its associates hands-on experience in shaping investment decisions, therefore providing them with a competitive advantage for their future careers.

Over its 17-year existence, DVG has built a solid legacy, involving over 200 student associates, managed by a team of five managing directors, and has grown its assets under management to over $2 million. Their investment strategy is clearly aligned with identifying and nurturing high-potential ventures and driving positive change within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. DVG is changing the way the world views venture capitalists by focusing on growth, innovation, and the personal development of its members.

What they say:

We are a venture capital fund managed by students from the University of North Dakota.

What we look for: We invest in companies supported by students, acting as a venture capital fund.