University College Dublin

University College Dublin (UCD) is a major Irish university that functions as an operating company in the education and research sectors. It also acts as an investor by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through NovaUCD, its Centre for New Ventures and Entrepreneurs, established in 2003. NovaUCD is the hub for the university's startup and innovation activities, supporting high-tech and knowledge-intensive spin-out companies that commercialize UCD's research. The center provides facilities, a comprehensive business support program, and facilitated access to a network of mentors, partners, and investors. NovaUCD hosts an annual Investor Day, enabling startups to pitch to angel investors and venture capitalists. Companies supported by NovaUCD have raised over €1.4 billion in equity funding. UCD is also a partner in venture funds, such as the Atlantic Bridge University Bridge Fund, which invests in spinouts from Irish universities.