Top U.S. universities boost startup founders' funding chances

A new report reveals that attending a top-tier U.S. university significantly increases the likelihood of a startup founder securing venture funding. Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and UC Berkeley remain the top schools. The annual analysis, based on Crunchbase data, shows that these universities consistently produce the most founders whose startups receive seed through growth-stage funding. Public universities like UC Berkeley also perform well, especially those with strong STEM programs. While a degree isn't required, the study highlights the continued importance of elite institutions and business schools in fostering successful entrepreneurs. The rankings have remained relatively stable over time.