Connecticut Innovations Begins Search For Next Wave Of Tech-Based Entrepreneurs

Connecticut Innovations, the state’s quasi-public authority responsible for technology-based innovation and economic development, announced Wednesday that applications are now being accepted from Connecticut-based entrepreneurial teams interested in participating in the upcoming fall’s TechStart Accelerator Program.

The $1 million TechStart initiative came to be through funding given to CI through last fall’s $626 million jobs bill.

“We look forward to receiving applications from entrepreneurial teams that are seeking assistance in launching new technology ventures and to welcoming our second class of TechStart participants,” said Claire Leonardi, chief executive officer and executive director of CI.

Leonardi also praised the nine teams selected in March from the first TechStart Accelerator Program.

“Our first graduating class of TechStart teams accomplished so much in such a short period of time and made valuable connections with prospective investors,” Leonardi said.

The first program had over 80 applicants.  Each of the nine selected were provided with $25,000 in initial capital through the TechStart Fund, as well as mentoring throughout the three-month program.  At the end of the three months, each team pitched their innovations to angel and venture capital investors.

The program requires selected entrepreneurial teams to devote themselves full-time to the program from mid-September through mid-December.

Applications will not be accepted any later than August 15 at 5:00 p.m.

For more information, or to apply, visit www.ctinnovations.com/techstart.