i2E, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to fostering the growth of startups and entrepreneurs in Oklahoma, is proud to announce surpassing the $100 million mark in total investments. This achievement highlights their continued commitment to driving innovation and economic growth across Oklahoma and beyond.
Since first investing in Oklahoma startups in 1999, i2E, and now its independent Venture Capital Fund management partner, Plains Ventures, have managed numerous early-stage debt and equity investment funds, making 452 investments in more than 250 companies. These investments, collectively over $100 million, have provided vital early capital to help startups throughout the state to thrive.
“This milestone represents years of dedication to growing Oklahoma’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” Plains Ventures President Justin Wilson said. “It wasn’t that long ago that many in this industry didn’t think it was possible to do successfully in a place like Oklahoma, but now the only question is how high we can build. We believe that this is just the beginning, and we look forward to backing the next wave of startups that will shape our state’s future.”
i2E and Plains Ventures have consistently invested in early-stage companies that solve high-value problems across major industry sectors, from healthcare and life sciences to advanced technologies. These investments have made a significant economic impact, creating thousands of jobs and supporting the growth of numerous innovative companies. To date, $42 million has been invested in life sciences and advanced healthcare solutions, with 109 companies in Tulsa, 121 companies in Oklahoma City, and many others throughout the state receiving capital so far.
Notable investment successes include:
- Crescendo Bioscience, an early i2E investment, was acquired for $270 million in 2014.
- Selexys Pharmaceuticals was acquired by Novartis for $665 million in October 2016.
- Spiers New Technologies, a pioneer in the electric vehicle value chain, was acquired by Cox Automotive Mobility for an undisclosed amount.
- Novazyme Pharmaceuticals Inc. was acquired by Genzyme Corp for $137.5 million in 2001.
- Alkami, Oklahoma’s first unicorn, was valued at $3.1 billion at its IPO in April 2021.The $100 million milestone was made possible through collaboration with numerous partners and stakeholders. i2E and Plains Ventures could not have achieved this without the support of OCAST (Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology), its institutional Limited Partners, the Oklahoma Angel Network, REI Oklahoma, the Chickasaw Nation, Oklahoma Legislators who created the Technology Business Finance Program (TBFP), Foundations, family offices, and the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber and Tulsa Regional Chamber, among others.“We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment,” i2E President Rex Smitherman said. “Reaching the $100 million mark reflects the dedication of our team and the robust support of Oklahoma’s innovation ecosystem. Our success is deeply tied to the partnerships we’ve cultivated over the years.”For more information, visit i2E.org and plainsvc.com.
About i2E, Inc.
i2E, Inc. is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Oklahoma City. With a focus on strategic investment, advisory services, and facilitating access to capital, i2E specializes in supporting and advancing the growth of Oklahoma startups and entrepreneurs. By leveraging its extensive network and resources, i2E is committed to supporting innovation, driving economic development, and nurturing a thriving entrepreneurial community. i2E receives state support from the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology and is an integral part of Oklahoma’s Innovation Ecosystem.
About Plains Ventures
Plains Ventures, an independent investment subsidiary of i2E, Inc., is a private, for-profit venture capital fund that invests in early-stage companies solving high-value problems. With a proven infrastructure of capital, experience, and network, Plains Ventures helps entrepreneurs succeed and delivers high risk-adjusted returns to its partners.
