University Venture Development Fund

Inspire Innovation

Research excellence is a hallmark of Oregon State University.

OSU researchers are working to solve some of the world's most crucial challenges, from water management to safer food processing.

Now, unique legislation approved in 2007 by Oregon lawmakers enables donors to invest in research at Oregon State University, while reaping the benefits of generous tax credits.

Donors to the venture fund boost not just research at the university, but also help OSU continue to make significant contributions to the economic and social benefit of Oregonians and throughout the United States by creating jobs and spinoff companies, improving quality of life and developing sustainable environmental practices.

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Smart Money

Investing in research at OSU through the Venture Development Fund enables private donors to stretch their charitable gifts through an Oregon income tax credit. Unlike a tax deduction, a credit reduces the amount tax you owe. That's in addition to federal tax deductions for which donors may be eligible.

Under the legislation

• $14 million in tax credits are allotted to the participating public universities.
• OSU's share is $5.35 million.
• Tax credit certificates will be issued to donors on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Both individuals and corporations are eligible to make unrestricted donations to the venture fund, which the university will use exclusively to pave the way to commercialization of OSU-based research.

  The wisdom of donating to the fund extends even further, thanks to an "evergreen" clause that is part of the legislation. That means 20 percent of revenue generated as Oregon State inventions enter the marketplace -- such as through licensing fees and royalty income -- will replenish the venture fund and provide new tax credits for future donors.

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  Giving is Easy

  • Donors must designate a gift of cash or publicly traded stock to OSU's venture development fund.
  • Donors must submit a signed Contribution and Tax Credit application form. (PDF form, 66kb)
  • The Oregon State University Foundation will issue tax credit certificates to individual or corporate donors equal to 60 percent of the contribution, up to a maximum credit of $50,000 per year.
  • The credit claimed in a single year cannot exceed 20 percent of the total contribution.

  The certificates issued by the OSU Foundation will indicate the eligible tax credit.

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  online calculator

  Estimate your tax savings by using our online calculator

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  Contact Us

  
  VentureFund@oregonstate.edu
  Oregon State University Foundation
  800-336-8217
  503-553-3408