Winston-Salem Partners Roundtable Fund

The Winston-Salem Partners Roundtable (WSPR) Fund is an independent group of more than 60 accredited investors committed to advancing the economy of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County, North Carolina. Facilitated through the entrepreneurial initiatives division of Greater Winston-Salem, Inc., the fund focuses on investing seed-stage capital in early-stage companies based in or willing to relocate to the area. The typical investment size ranges from $100,000 to $300,000, with a preference for industries where the region has established expertise, including healthcare, technology, data analytics, apparel, education, virtual reality, automotive technology, and unmanned aviation.

WSPR operates as a pledge fund, where members make non-binding commitments to contribute capital to a series of investments. This structure allows for flexibility and collaboration among investors. The fund's goal is to provide meaningful access to capital, assisting early-stage companies in scaling their operations and contributing to the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since its inception, WSPR has invested in several local startups, including BEAM Dynamics, Nvolve, Village Juice & Kitchen, KeraVet Bio, and STEMZ, among others.

The fund accepts applications on an ongoing basis from startups currently located in or willing to locate in Forsyth County. Companies seeking investment must demonstrate a compelling customer problem, a defensible solution, a large addressable market, and a scalable business model. The management team should be talented, trustworthy, determined, and resourceful. WSPR's approach emphasizes collaboration and support, aiming to foster a vibrant community conducive to business growth and sustainability.