University of California Merced Office of Research and Economic Development
Request for Expressions of Interest
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Investment Capital for Regenerative Agriculture Initiatives
I. Overview
The University of California Merced Office of Research and Economic Development (ORED) invites expressions of interest from investment capital firms and investor groups—including angel investors, venture capital firms, evergreen investors, revolving loan fund managers, community development financial institutions, nonprofit lenders, intermediaries, and other investor groups—to participate in the development and support of regenerative agriculture initiatives. These initiatives may include grants, recoverable grants, debt, revenue-based financing, and equity, especially within the Central Valley. We are particularly interested in exploring innovative financial models which prioritize positive regenerative farming outcomes (e.g., addressing the needs of farmers, farmworker safety, soil health, biodiversity, etc.) over traditional financial returns. Our aim is to catalyze economic development through high-quality job creation in regenerative agriculture, leveraging practices that restore and enhance the ecological health of the region.
II. Project Goals
1. Economic Impact: To create high-quality jobs that contribute positively to the economic landscape of the Central Valley.
2. Environmental Restoration: To promote agricultural practices that regenerate soil, enhance biodiversity, and improve the watershed.
3. Aligned Investment: To attract capital that is aligned with the principles of regenerative agriculture, prioritizing the needs of startups and the environment over traditional profit-driven models.
III. Partner Expectations
• Strategic Alignment: Potential partners should have a demonstrated commitment to sustainability and a track record in supporting initiatives that combine economic development with environmental stewardship.
• Collaborative Approach: We are seeking partners who are willing to engage in a reverse-engineering investment approach, focusing first on the needs of the startups and the community rather than traditional return-on-investment metrics.
• Long-Term Engagement: Partners should be prepared for a long-term commitment to the projects and the overall vision of enhancing the Central Valley’s agricultural landscape.
IV. Submission Guidelines
• Expression of Interest: Interested parties should complete the below form.
VI. Timeline
• Expression of Interest Due: September 16, 2024
Questions? Please reach out here.
