CEI Ventures

CEI Ventures is the venture capital subsidiary of Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI), a prominent community development financial institution (CDFI) based in Maine. Established with a dual mission, the firm aims to generate competitive financial returns for its investors while simultaneously fostering economic development and job creation, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Their investment philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that strategic capital deployment can drive both financial success and significant social impact, aligning profit with purpose.

The firm specializes in providing early-stage equity, growth capital, and recapitalization investments to businesses that demonstrate strong growth potential and a commitment to creating quality jobs. While their primary geographic focus is Maine and New England, they also consider opportunities across broader rural America. CEI Ventures targets a diverse range of industries, including sustainable natural resources, food and agriculture, clean technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, seeking companies that contribute to a sustainable economy and offer opportunities for low-income individuals.

CEI Ventures typically makes initial investments ranging from $250,000 to $1.5 million, providing crucial capital for companies in their seed, start-up, and early growth phases. Beyond the initial investment, they also participate in follow-on rounds to support the continued expansion of their portfolio companies. The firm actively manages over $30 million in capital across several funds, reflecting their sustained commitment to impact investing. To date, CEI Ventures has invested in over 60 companies, demonstrating a robust track record of supporting enterprises that contribute to community vitality and economic resilience.