Episode 116: How Alumni-Powered Venture Funds Can Transform Regional Biotech Innovation

What if your alumni network could help fuel the next generation of biotech startups? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Evan Nicoll, MBA, and Patrick Hernandez of 1834 Ventures, a new investment fund created by Tulane alumni, for founders with Tulane DNA. They share how their alumni-powered model is helping to close regional funding gaps, strengthen emerging biotech ecosystems, and support founders through trust-driven, relationship-first investing. From navigating today’s tough fundraising climate to understanding what really catches an investor’s eye, this conversation offers practical lessons for founders, universities, and anyone building innovation communities. In this episode, you’ll learn: How alumni networks can become powerful engines for venture funding, mentorship, and deal flow. What investors are really looking for in early biotech pitches, and why trust, clarity, and curiosity matter more than perfection. Why founders should embrace relationship-building over rapid-fire pitching, and how regional markets like Louisiana can attract coastal investors. Tune in to discover how connection-driven investing is helping shape the next chapter of biotech growth across the Gulf South — and how you can be part of it. Links: Connect with Evan Nicoll, MBA, and Patrick Hernandez, and check out 1834 Ventures. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out Cadenza Bio and the book The Speed of Trust. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.