# Innova Memphis

Innova Memphis is a Private Equity based in Memphis, United States.

## Overview

- **Organization type:** Private Equity
- **Headquarters:** Memphis, United States
- **Region:** North America
- **Address:** Memphis, TN, United States
- **Founded:** 2007
- **Assets under management:** Undisclosed
- **Website:** www.innovamemphis.com
- **LinkedIn:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/innova-memphis

## Regulatory record

- **CRD number:** 173460
- **SEC file number:** 802-80488
- **Registration status:** Registered
- **Reports private funds:** Yes
- **IAPD record:** https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/173460

## About

Innova Memphis is an early-stage investor that provides seed capital and hands-on mentorship to high-growth companies. Its mission is to enable companies and jobs in healthcare, technology and AgTech. Current focus is early-stage companies with strong intellectual property or competitive advantages in AgTech and FarmTech.

## Sectors

- AgriTech & FoodTech
- Healthcare Services
- Digital Health
- Robotics & Automation

## People

- Jan Bouten — Partner
- Dean Didato — Partner

## Questions

### Who makes investment decisions at Innova Memphis?

Partners Jan Bouten and Dean Didato drive all investment decisions. Bouten leads the agricultural technology practice, while Didato focuses on healthcare and medical technology deals. The flat structure means all portfolio companies pass through direct partner diligence rather than a broader investment committee.

### What is Innova Memphis's connection to the Memphis Bioworks Foundation?

Innova was launched in 2007 as the for-profit venture arm of the non-profit Memphis Bioworks Foundation. Historically, a share of Innova's investment returns flowed back to the foundation to fund its regional innovation programs and incubator operations. This structure makes Innova a hybrid vehicle — venture firm and economic development engine.

### What investment stages does Innova Memphis typically target?

Innova invests from pre-seed through Series A, often serving as a company's first institutional capital. The firm takes board seats in many of its early-stage investments and works actively on company formation alongside founders. It does not lead growth-stage rounds or participate in late-stage syndicates.

### Does Innova Memphis invest outside the United States?

Innova's portfolio is concentrated in the United States, with a focus on startups in rural America, the Mid-South, and other underserved regions far from coastal venture hubs. The firm's geographic thesis relies on proximity to the agricultural and logistics infrastructure centered in Memphis. There is no public record of international portfolio companies.

## Related profiles

- [Innova Italy Partners](https://altss.com/profile/innova-italy-partners)
- [Innovate Africa Fund](https://altss.com/profile/innovate-africa-fund)

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Last updated: 2026-08-11T15:07:05.535Z

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