Foundry Launches Early-Stage Venture Program with Gabelli Endowment

Fordham Now article (May 19, 2026) announcing the Early-Stage Venture Program, funded by $1M endowment from Mario Gabelli. First investment: $30,000 in Wide Eye (caffeinated popcorn by first-year student John Russak). Plans for ~$60,000 annual investment capacity. Details evolution from earlier Angel Fund program. Investment committee includes Foundry staff, faculty, and outside investors including Luke Johnson (Rose Street Capital).

• $1M endowment from Mario Gabelli for startup investments
• First investment: $30,000 in Wide Eye (caffeinated popcorn)
• ~$60,000 annual investment capacity going forward
• Program began investing in November 2025
• Builds on earlier Angel Fund initiative
• Plans to eventually support Bronx-based ventures
• Professor Dennis Hanno and Luke Johnson (Rose Street Capital) on investment committee

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