Texas McCombs program celebrates 30 years of finance education with $25 million in assets.

From Yahoo Finance: 2025-06-29 09:19:00

The Texas McCombs Investment Advisers program is celebrating 30 years of real-world finance education. Founded in 1994, it manages $25 million in assets and has launched over 500 finance careers. Students pitch investment ideas to industry professionals, receiving hands-on training and scrutiny to prepare for real-world finance jobs.

The program began with the MBA Investment Fund LLC in 1994, managed by students with $1.6 million from outside investors. Over time, more funds were added, offering exposure to different investment strategies. In 2020, the program was restructured as Texas McCombs Investment Advisers, LLC, backed by institutional partners.

TMIA oversees the Longhorn Fund and the Endowment Fund, managing $25 million with support from UTIMCO and the McCombs School Foundation. Students go through a year-long course, presenting pitches to investment counselors and industry professionals. Weekly instruction and hands-on experience prepare them for real finance careers.

Students like Srinath Narayanan and Matt Jacobs have transformed their career trajectories through TMIA. Narayanan, a former engineer, gained the tools and confidence to pivot to finance. Jacobs, from the music industry, learned to frame compelling arguments and pitch to hedge fund managers. The program has become a go-to credential in recruiting.

Over 540 students have completed TMIA, now working in investment management, banking, private equity, or corporate finance. The program’s mission is to educate students on analyzing companies, building portfolios, and selling ideas. TMIA not only serves investors but also provides students with practical skills and confidence in finance.

Read more: Inside Texas McCombs’ Student Investment Powerhouse