AIC is seeking to support innovations in “Deep Tech” – that is, innovations rooted in fundamental scientific or engineering breakthroughs, rather than incremental or purely digital improvements. These are technologies that push the boundaries of what is physically or scientifically possible, spanning fields such as:

Advanced Materials Quantum Technologies Semiconductors and Electronics

AI and Machine Learning Photonics and Optoelectronic Energy and Climate Tech

Space and Aerospace Technologies

AIC currently funds all non-dilutive, proof-of-concept grants through our partner programs at UC Berkeley. Applicants must generally have PI status, though grant funds can support post-docs. More information can be found here:

Bakar Fellows Program

CITRIS & The Banatao Institute

AIC Ventures typically invests in PoC grantees, ATEC companies, and, selectively, through co-investments with other aligned investors. We generally focus on the pre-seed and seed stages, but can participate in later rounds. Generally, the goal is to bridge an early-stage venture to an institutional financing round.