Connecticut Innovations

Connecticut Innovations (CI) stands as the strategic venture capital arm of the state of Connecticut, serving as a pivotal source of financing and operational support for the region's burgeoning innovative companies. Headquartered in Rocky Hill, CI is dedicated to fostering economic growth by investing in early-stage technology firms poised for significant expansion. Their investment mandate spans a diverse array of high-tech sectors, including bioscience, digital health, advanced manufacturing, FinTech, InsurTech, enterprise software, and cybersecurity, reflecting a broad commitment to the state's technological ecosystem.

CI primarily targets companies that have successfully completed a seed round and are either preparing for or already engaged in their Series A funding. While their focus is on these more mature early-stage companies, they also demonstrate flexibility by making seed investments in ventures with exceptionally strong teams and groundbreaking technologies. This strategic approach ensures that CI supports a pipeline of promising startups, nurturing them from nascent ideas to market-ready solutions.

A key aspect of CI's investment strategy is its substantial financial commitment. For initial investments, Connecticut Innovations typically deploys capital ranging from $100,000 to $5 million, providing crucial early-stage funding. Furthermore, the organization has the capacity to invest up to $10 million over the entire lifecycle of a portfolio company, demonstrating a long-term commitment to their success. Beyond capital, CI offers strategic guidance and ongoing support, leveraging its expertise to help companies navigate challenges and scale effectively.

The impact of Connecticut Innovations on the state's economy is significant and quantifiable. Since its inception, CI has deployed over $1 billion in capital to Connecticut-based companies, underscoring its role as a major financial catalyst. This substantial investment has not only fueled innovation but has also contributed to the creation of more than 26,000 jobs within Connecticut, solidifying CI's position as a cornerstone of the state's economic development and innovation landscape.