HMC INQ: Investing in and supporting startups from inception to IPO, founded by HMC graduates.
Location
Santa Monica, CA, US
Founded
2017
HMC INQ focuses on investing in startups founded by Harvey Mudd College graduates and the broader 5C community, supporting companies from their inception through to IPO. The firm typically participates in pre-seed and seed rounds, with investment sizes ranging from $120,000 to $10 million, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing early-stage ventures and scaling them through various growth phases.
Notable portfolio companies include Groundlight AI, which raised $10 million, and Speakeasy, which secured $7.6 million. HMC INQ's investment philosophy centers on leveraging the strong academic and entrepreneurial network of Harvey Mudd College to foster innovation. The firm offers unique value-add services such as mentorship from experienced alumni, access to industry connections, and strategic guidance to help startups navigate their growth trajectories effectively.
HMC INQ - Portfolio Snapshot
Portfolio activity breakdown across disclosed investments and stages
Portfolio Companies8
Current Portfolio Count8
Top Investment Stages
Pre-Seed5 (62.5%)
Seed2 (25.0%)
Series A1 (12.5%)
Stage Mix
Pre-Seed 63%Seed 25%Series A 13%
Concentration shown as share of disclosed investments by stage.
