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TechStart FundSM


Financing for Entrepreneurs, Student Startups and Early-Stage Technology Companies  

The TechStart FundSM was created to spur technology innovation at its very earliest stage. The fund provides entrepreneurial or student teams with initial capital so they can determine whether a technology concept and business are viable and whether future funding can be obtained to launch a new business. Teams applying for TechStart funding will need to participate in a 10-week program, during which they will be provided with mentors and various professional resources offering strategic guidance in launching a new business. The initial 10-week pilot program will be held at CTech@Science Park at Yale in New Haven and will begin in March 2012. Future dates and locations, as well as information on other eligible accelerator programs for TechStart funding, will be posted here. 

Program Highlights

  • TechStart is open to Connecticut-based entrepreneurial or student teams.
  • A majority of the team members will need to devote a full-time effort during the 10-week program.
  • $25,000 is available per team.
  • The TechStart program is a pilot initiative and may run again this year.
  • CI does not take an equity stake in your business.
  • Personal guarantees are NOT required.

Benefits

Teams will:

  • be provided with mentors.
  • interact with other startups.
  • learn about capital sources and prepare their pitch to potential investors.
  • have access to pro bono professional service providers. 
  • learn from speakers and other entrepreneurs.
  • receive assistance in preparing a business plan.

At the conclusion of the program, each team should have a prototype or market-ready product, be ready to launch a company and be prepared to make a pitch to investors for funding.

Note: Funding from TechStart may also be available in the future to entrepreneurial or student teams to determine business viability through other approved accelerator programs.  Organizations interested in more information are encouraged to contact Charlie Moret, CI Managing Director, Business Development.


Additional information and the TechStart Fund application can be found here.


 

Definition of TechStart

Eligibility Requirements 

  1. The team must submit a complete and detailed application.
  2. The business or product must have a technology basis.
  3. The business must be based in Connecticut. Team members must show that they are Connecticut residents or students at a Connecticut school.
  4. The use of funds must be consistent with developing business viability.
  5. A five-minute video (maximum length) is required that includes a three-minute description of the business and a two-minute segment with and about the team members.
  6. Prior recipients of TechStart funding are ineligible.