About this programme
The Pre-Seed and Seed Matching Fund Program is one of New York Ventures' funds, run by Empire State Development. It is a $40 million fund that invests alongside private investors in venture-backable startups at the early stages of their development.
It sits within Empire State Development's wider New York Ventures portfolio, which also includes the $135+ million NYS Innovation Venture Capital Fund (Seed through later stages), the $102 million Emerging and Regional Partner Fund (for diverse and emerging venture fund managers), and the $42 million Community and Regional Partner Fund. Across its venture programs, ESD reports $106 million-plus invested by New York State, matched by more than $715 million from the private sector, into a portfolio of 122 companies, 45% of which are located outside New York City and 71% of which are started or led by women, minorities or veterans.
How it works
Investments range from $50,000 up to $250,000 per company.
Every dollar NY Ventures invests must be matched by at least one dollar of qualified private-sector investment (a 1:1 ratio). Private capital raised within 90 days before the state's investment can count toward this match.
There is a preference for companies structured as a C-Corporation.
Applications go through a competitive online portal, with weekly Monday office hours (via Zoom) for applicant questions.
Who can apply
The company must be registered to do business in New York State and in good standing.
Headquarters and at least one C-suite employee must be located in New York.
The company must have raised $2 million or less in dilutive funding prior to the current round.
Focus sectors include Advanced Manufacturing, Agricultural Tech, Climate and Energy Tech, Consumer Tech, Data/SaaS/AI, Deep Tech, FinTech, Healthcare, Life Sciences and BioTech, and Medical Devices.
How to apply
- Submit a competitive application through the online portal.
- Join the weekly Monday office hours (Zoom) if you have questions before or during the process.
- You can also send an investment presentation for review by email.
Frequently asked
How much can my company receive?
Between $50,000 and $250,000 per company.
Do I need to find matching investors first?
You need at least $1 of qualified private-sector investment for every $1 NY Ventures invests. Private capital raised within 90 days before the state's investment can count toward that match.
Does my company have to be based in New York?
Yes. The company must be registered to do business in New York and in good standing, with its headquarters and at least one C-suite employee located in the state.
Is there a cap on prior funding?
Yes. The company must have raised $2 million or less in dilutive funding prior to the current round.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.