Daniel Feder Appointed to Innovation Partnerships’ National Advisory Board at the University of Michigan

6/23/2026

Daniel Feder, senior managing director with the University of Michigan Investment Office, has been appointed to serve on the Innovation Partnerships’ National Advisory Board (NAB).

In his role, Feder leads the endowment’s investments in private equity and venture capital. His work has brought him into close collaboration with Innovation Partnerships as both organizations work to connect U-M’s research enterprise with capital and commercialization opportunities.

Prior to joining U-M, Feder served as managing director of private markets at the Washington University Investment Management Company, where he oversaw investments in private equity, venture capital, natural resources and real estate. His career in endowment management began at the Princeton University Investment Company, where he spent eight years leading the development of Princeton’s global private equity and venture capital portfolio. He has also held senior investment roles at Sequoia Capital and TIAA-CREF.

“Dan brings deep expertise in venture capital and private equity combined with strategic insight and connections across the business, innovation and investment communities,” said Kelly Sexton, associate vice president for research – innovation partnerships and economic impact. “His work with Innovation Partnerships over the years has been invaluable, and I look forward to deepening that collaboration as he joins the distinguished group of leaders on our National Advisory Board.”

“Dan is a terrific addition to the National Advisory Board,” said Chris Rizik, National Advisory Board chair. “This Board is strongest when it brings together leaders who can offer strategic advice, meaningful connections and a deep commitment to U-M’s innovation mission. Dan brings all of that, along with exceptional expertise in venture capital and private equity, and I am very pleased to welcome him.”

The Innovation Partnerships National Advisory Board was founded in 2002 to provide advice and connections to enhance U-M’s success in translating its research discoveries into real-world solutions that benefit society.  Composed of industry, venture, government, university and community leaders, the NAB has transformed the university and southeast Michigan region with several initiatives, including the creation of Ann Arbor SPARK, the Tech Transfer Talent Network (T3N) and the Accelerate Blue Fund.

“Innovation Partnerships has long been a critical bridge between the remarkable research happening at U-M and the companies, investors and entrepreneurs who can bring those discoveries to market,” Feder said. “I am honored to join the National Advisory Board and contribute to their important mission. I look forward to helping strengthen the connections between the university’s research enterprise and the venture community, and to supporting the continued growth of Michigan’s innovation economy.”