Rowan University names Howard Lubert as managing director of its $5m university venturing fund.
New Jersey-based Rowan University has named Howard Lubert as managing director of its $5m university venturing fund.
The Rowan Innovation Venture Fund was established back in February, and will aim to make investments into university technologies, intellectual property, and businesses. The appointment of Lubert brings the fund closer to accepting applications for its first round of investments.
The fund is part of a wider programme at Rowan to boost commercialisation and technological development. Last year, the university attracted $24m in sponsored research and grants, and has set itself a target of increasing this to $100m within ten years.
Lubert brings 30 years of experience in business, angel, and venture capital to Rowan. He is the co-founder of Keiretsu Forum Mid-Atlantic, a branch of the private equity network. Keiretsu Forum has attracted 1,100 investors over 34 branches which have collectively invested $490m at early-stage in the past decade and a half.
Ali Houshmand, Rowan’s president, said: “Howard Lubert’s expertise will be critical as we make our first investments and encourage innovative research and business initiatives. Rowan is committed to serving as an economic engine for the region, and this Fund will accelerate our efforts by serving as an important catalyst for growth.”
