VIP15: JuniperVC Strategic Partnership [FAST-TRACK]

Summary We propose accepting a $100,000 investment from JuniperVC at $0.30 per token, resulting in the allocation of 333,333 $GROW tokens. Tokens will vest linearly over 2 years starting May 5, 2025. This partnership will bring strategic capital, network value, and long-term alignment with ValleyDAO’s mission.

About JuniperVC JuniperVC is a venture firm dedicated to climate biotech and synthetic biology, with a focus on early-stage investments (Portfolio) that turn academic research into impact-driven startups. They operate as a hands-on partner to founders and scientists, offering capital, technical expertise, and support in company formation.

Their mission is highly aligned with ValleyDAO’s goal of using biotechnology to address climate challenges. JuniperVC is not only values-aligned but offers domain expertise and investor credibility that will support our community and research projects as we grow. As part of this governance proposal, the core team commits to finalizing the strategic partnership upon approval and accepting the funding terms outlined below.

Investment Terms Amount: $100,000 Token Price: $0.30 Token Allocation: 333,333 $GROW tokens Vesting: 24 months from May 5, 2025

Use of Funds The capital will support four core priorities: Incubation of existing portfolio projects: Ongoing business development support for ValleyDAO-backed research projects like Cocoa Zero, Hempy, and KardaForge and, helping teams reach key business milestones earlier.

Development of future IPToken projects: Seeding new IPToken offerings through pre-funding early research.

Phlo platform development: Accelerating progress on Phlo, our AI-powered research co-pilot for collaborative science, with funds supporting engineering, user onboarding, and launch.

Marketing and community growth: Amplifying ValleyDAO’s presence through content, community management, and presence at key DeSci and biotech events.