As Connecticut’s strategic venture capital arm and one of the most active investors on the East Coast, Connecticut Innovations (CI) manages a portfolio of 220+ companies spanning life sciences, technology, and climate tech. Each year, CI meets with hundreds of entrepreneurs to identify the most promising early-stage companies growing in Connecticut. CI invests in 20+ new companies annually and provides follow-on capital to existing portfolio companies. It also invests as a Limited Partner in Connecticut-based venture funds—17 funds in the past six years.
Since 1989, CI has:
Invested $700+ million in innovative startups
Generated $7+ billion in outside capital (10X leverage)
In fiscal year 2025, CI invested $45.8 million in 67 companies and venture funds, helping attract an additional $653 million in outside capital. The year also generated $43.2 million in proceeds, fueling future investments in early-stage companies.
Our culture is vibrant, diverse, and collaborative. We share a mission-driven commitment to strengthening Connecticut’s innovation ecosystem. CI participates in 20+ ecosystem events annually, and our headquarters at District New Haven serves as a hub for partnership, community, and innovation.
Climate Technology Fund
The CI ClimateTech Fund is a $100 million fund that invests capital and strategic support in early stage and growth companies. The fund is looking to invest in the following areas: Energy, transportation and mobility, food and agriculture, water, climate-related software, waste and circular economy, advanced materials/manufacturing, carbon removal/sequestration and more.
Connecticut is taking a macro government strategy to decarbonize, with CI working in tandem with the Connecticut Green Bank, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Department of Transportation, Office of Workforce Strategy, and more.
Climate Technology Venture Team Internship
Join CI’s Climate Technology Venture Team to gain hands-on venture capital experience in a fast-paced, innovative environment. Interns contribute to projects that strengthen the venture infrastructure, support due diligence, and drive portfolio success.
We seek MBA or undergraduate students with a strong interest in the intersection between venture capital and sustainability. Preference will be given to candidates demonstrating curriculum, research and/or practical experience in sustainability, environmental science, renewable energy, or climate-focused initiatives.
The Climate Technology Venture Team is small in size, but each team member plays a pivotal role in investment due diligence and post-investment portfolio growth. The team values diverse perspectives, bold thinking, and mission alignment.
Responsibilities
Collect and analyze data on portfolio activity, industries, markets, and competitors
Support investment monitoring, financial analysis, and market research
Assist with due diligence, including business plan assessment and company evaluations
Build financial models and prepare presentations for the CI Investment Committee
Contribute to lead generation, sourcing, and business development activities
Qualifications
Current MBA or undergraduate student student studying finance, business, environmental science, or related field of study
Strong interest in venture capital and early-stage innovation
Research or professional experience in sustainability, environmental science, renewable energy, or climate-focused initiatives
Based in or studying in Connecticut
Available to work on-site two days per week (Mondays and Wednesdays required) in New Haven
Skills & Competencies
Passionate about startups and community building
Curious, proactive, and adaptable
Highly organized with strong follow-through
Skilled communicator who can synthesize complex data
Team-oriented with a positive attitude and sense of humor
The CI Intern Experience
As a CI Intern, you’ll dive into Connecticut’s startup ecosystem—learning, building, and connecting along the way.
You’ll have an opportunity to:
Level up your VC skills: Participate in a structured venture capital curriculum
Develop professionally: Attend workshops to enhance business and leadership skills
Work on real deals: Collaborate with interns and CI staff on active investments
Network across Connecticut: Meet entrepreneurs, portfolio teams, and industry leaders
Engage with founders: Attend live pitches and executive sessions
Shape CI’s future: Contribute to investments and process improvements
Explore the ecosystem: Join day trips to portfolio companies and fund partners
Enjoy perks: Great food, fun events, and exclusive CI swag
Equal Opportunity Employer
Connecticut Innovations is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.