WRF Capital

Washington Research Foundation is a Seattle, Washington–based nonprofit organization founded in 1981 that supports the advancement of academic research and technology commercialization in Washington state, with a primary focus on life sciences and enabling technologies. It provides grants to researchers and institutions to accelerate translational research and public-benefit innovation and cultivates ecosystem programs that foster STEM research, entrepreneurship and inclusion. Through its affiliated venture arm, WRF Capital, the foundation makes early-stage investments in startups emerging from local nonprofit research institutions and partners with other investors to support growth. The organization works with universities, research centers and entrepreneurs to bridge gaps from discovery to market application and to improve lives through innovation. Its activities have generated licensing revenue for research institutions and supported numerous technology spinouts in the region.