The Pre-Seed Investment Program, administered by Connecticut Innovations (CI), provides up to $150,000 in early-stage funding to help innovative technology startups develop their products, validate business concepts, and advance toward commercialization. The program supports technology-based businesses headquartered in Connecticut or willing to relocate or expand into the state. CI focuses on companies operating in bioscience, information technology, clean technology, photonics, and advanced materials, while remaining open to evaluating other innovative business opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
Connecticut Innovations generally looks for startups that meet the following characteristics:
- Company History: Operating for fewer than seven years.
- Financial Status: Non-recurring revenue from non-grant sources of less than $2 million.
- Geographic Location: Principally located in Connecticut or willing to relocate or expand into the state.
- Employee Location: At least 50% of employees based in Connecticut, according to CI's current program page. Other state resources specify 75%, so applicants should verify the applicable requirement directly with CI.
- Business Registration: Registered with the Connecticut Secretary of the State before receiving funding.
- Private Funding: Able to meet the program's minimum 50% private-source matching requirement.
These characteristics guide CI's investment review, but the organization retains flexibility when evaluating prospective companies.
Funding and Support
Selected startups may receive:
- Investment Amount: Up to $150,000 for eligible pre-seed expenses.
- Matching Requirement: At least $0.50 in private-source funding for every $1 of program financing requested.
- Additional Support: Access to mentoring, business resources, and professional networks that can support commercialization and business growth.
Funding decisions are subject to Connecticut Innovations' evaluation and investment requirements.
Application Process
Interested startups can apply through the official Connecticut Innovations website by completing the funding inquiry form and submitting their pitch deck or business plan for review.
Applicants should provide relevant company information, describe their business and technology, and explain their Connecticut presence or relocation plans.
Companies that have already submitted materials to another CI funding opportunity do not need to upload the same documents again. CI considers submitted companies for all applicable funding opportunities during its review process.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions.
Applicants can explore CTNext, the Connecticut Angel Investor Tax Credit program, and CI's business plan preparation resources for additional startup support. The Pre-Seed Investment Program offers a funding opportunity for early-stage technology startups seeking capital and strategic support to establish and grow their businesses in Connecticut.