Founders Pledge
Take the Next Step See Who Took the Pledge - coming soon FAQ
The Founders Pledge honors the next generation of entrepreneurial philanthropists. Integral to this giving
society is a mutual commitment between select entrepreneurs at Jacksonville University.
This commitment takes the form of pledged time and funding for Jacksonville University,
as well as support, networks, and engagement for entrepreneurs. The society actively
brings together a community of entrepreneurs and innovators who collectively pool
their talent, networks, and capital to support one another, the University, and the
innovation ecosystem that begins at Jacksonville University.
The JU Founders Pledge allows you to signal your intention to empower altruism as you progress toward financial
milestones on your entrepreneurial journey, connecting with university resources and
other JU Founders to leverage talent and networks.
Pledging a portion of your personal proceeds now from your venture’s future success—perhaps
upon liquidity—is a proven approach to holding yourself accountable to your charitable
ideals at a time when the demands of running your business consume your focus. It
also sends a powerful message to your fellow entrepreneurs that giving back should
be the norm, not the exception.
Jacksonville University supports a vibrant ecosystem of entrepreneurs and innovators,
and many of today’s most successful entrepreneurs view their JU education as pivotal
to their achievements. If you do not have a specific area of interest, staff can curate
opportunities that fit your passion and values.
FAQ's
What is the Founders Pledge?
The Founders Pledge is a non-binding pledge made by a for a portion of the equity
stake in his or her start-up. The founder commits to making a gift of cash or publicly
traded shares of the pledged equity at the time of a liquidity event (sale, merger,
IPO, etc.). There is no immediate asset transfer upon the signing of the pledge,
but rather a commitment to give back to the institution after a liquidity event.
Who is it for?
The founder, co-founder, or investor of a growth-oriented or venture-backed start-up
who wants to partner with Jacksonville University to make a wave of a difference in
the lives of our current students and generations of students to come.
How does it work?
The Founders Pledge members have full control over the timing, amount, and designation
of their gift. Our team is ready to work with you over the life of the pledge to help
you determine where you would like to direct your support. It’s an easy, low-risk,
and rewarding way to join a community of entrepreneurs who have publicly committed
to Jacksonville University.
Why would I want to do this?
When you sign the Founders Pledge and commit to supporting Jacksonville University,
you join an exceptional community of alumni entrepreneurs and trailblazers passionate
about JU’s programs, research, and mission. It’s also a low-risk, non-binding, and
tax-efficient way to support Jacksonville University and its community. You will also
gain potential opportunities to give back in the form of speaking, advising or advisory
board leadership, invitations to events with Jacksonville University leadership, and
internal stakeholders. We are excited to have you help us transform students' lives
today, for tomorrow.