We learn by doing.
As a highly-focused impact-driven organization, UpRound is split into three operating pods: Deal Flow, Fund, and Accelerator. Pods enable every member to develop actual skills and work with actual startups and VC firms to solve real world problems. Members are able to rotate pods between semesters, granting exposure to all areas of venture capital and startups.
Deal Flow
Our Deal Flow pod is responsible for sourcing and evaluating promising startups. Members develop skills in market research, competitive analysis, and startup evaluation.
Through partnerships with accelerators, incubators, and the broader Michigan entrepreneurial ecosystem, we identify early-stage companies with high growth potential. Members learn to conduct initial screenings, assess founding teams, and evaluate market opportunities.
Fund
The Fund pod manages our investment process from due diligence to deal execution. Members gain hands-on experience in performing due diligence on startups, drafting investment memos, and presenting their analysis to the rest of the team.
The work our analysts do in fund is directly correlated to the work VC firms do. Many analysts have used their experience in fund to stand out amongst other applicants for internships and full-time roles.
Accelerator
Our Accelerator pod works directly with startups to help them grow. Members serve as embedded consultants, tackling real business challenges alongside founding teams.
From go-to-market strategy to product development, our team helps startups navigate critical growth stages. Members develop skills in strategic consulting, project management, and cross-functional collaboration while making tangible impact on early-stage companies.