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Startup Incubators In Connecticut - 2024

Discover the most comprehensive List Of Startup Incubators In Connecticut to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey and foster innovation.

Lisa Shmulyan
Founder 101
February 15, 2024

Connecticut's startup incubators aim to strengthen the local entrepreneurial spirit and boost economy growth. These business accelerators are crucial, focusing on various fields. They provide essential resources like mentoring, technical help, and funding1. Now, reSET is accepting applications for two programs: the Retail Incubator and the Digital Marketing Mastermind. These programs are meant to help entrepreneurs grow their digital marketing skills. Classes are starting in mid-August and will continue until October.

reSET, a key player in Hartford, operates as a nonprofit geared towards social enterprise. It offers spaces for coworking, acceleration programs, and mentorship. The goal is to foster innovation and teamwork among Connecticut entrepreneurs. This helps in addressing community issues through market-driven solutions.

Recent data shows Connecticut has 15 incubators and accelerators. This includes 8 incubators and 6 accelerators, with many based in cities like Hartford and New Haven. Others are situated in areas outside these major cities. Together, they provide crucial support such as angel investing and venture capital2.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut boasts a dynamic ecosystem of startup incubators and business accelerators.
  • Applications are now open for two significant reSET programs, emphasizing impact-driven growth1.
  • reSET, based in Hartford, focuses on social enterprise by offering coworking space, accelerator, and mentoring programs1.
  • Out of 15 incubators and accelerators in Connecticut, 5 are in Hartford and 2 in New Haven2.
  • Connecticut’s innovation hubs offer essential services such as angel investing and venture capital support2.

STANLEY +Techstars AI in Advanced Manufacturing

The STANLEY +Techstars AI in Advanced Manufacturing accelerator began in 2018. It is a leading initiative aimed at boosting innovation in electrification and Industry 4.0. Being a part of the prestigious Techstars network, it plays a crucial role in the growth of AI startups and advanced manufacturing. The program is highly rated at 9.9, showing its success and the satisfaction level among its participants3.

Overview

The main goal of the STANLEY +Techstars AI accelerator is to boost the growth of AI startups in advanced manufacturing. Startups in the program receive strong support, helping them grow quickly during an intense 12-week period. It has invested in 34 startups so far, with one achieving success, showing its effectiveness in driving success and innovation3.

Industry Focus

This accelerator focuses sharply on electrification and Industry 4.0. It targets startups that are set to change advanced manufacturing. Participants use AI to innovate and improve how things are made. With support from STANLEY Techstars, these startups access important resources and networks. This boosts their industrial capabilities3.

Program Duration

The program lasts for 12 weeks. It prepares participants to push their AI-driven manufacturing startups forward. They meet industry experts, go to special training, and receive mentorship. This intense, focused effort is key to effective accelerator programs. It leads to significant growth and innovation in AI and manufacturing3.

4Catalyzer

Jonathan Rothberg founded 4Catalyzer in 2014, making it a standout technology accelerator in Guilford, Connecticut. It shines in the healthcare startups scene, blending medicine, engineering, and AI. The goal is to make big changes in society by creating new tech.

4Catalyzer has been the birthplace for companies like Butterfly Network, Quantum-Si, and Hyperfine. They've quickly become known in healthcare and tech3. So far, the technology accelerator has made four investments, leading to two big success stories. This shows how good it is at helping healthcare startups grow3.

As one of the top 15 startup incubators in the Northeast US, 4Catalyzer sits in a key spot in Connecticut4. It's dedicated to pushing healthcare innovation with new science tools and AI. This puts it right in line with the expanding tech and health needs of the area.

Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology

The Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT) is a leading incubator in Hartford, Connecticut. It's known for helping technology, energy, and Industry 4.0 sectors2. CCAT works with schools and government to help startups grow.

Mission and Vision

CCAT's goal is to use technology and innovation for economic growth. They focus on research, education, and helping workers. This helps businesses compete. CCAT wants Connecticut to lead in Industry 4.0. They invest in new ideas and solutions to help entrepreneurs5.

Industry Focus

CCAT focuses on Industry 4.0 technology. They help many industries, like manufacturing and renewable energy. This creates an environment for new ideas to grow. They support entrepreneurs with tools, training, and resources. Their work with the Connecticut Business Incubator Network shows their dedication to helping startups5.

The Refinery CT

In 2014, Janis Collins and Jennifer Gabler started The Refinery CT to help women in tech. Through a 12-week program, it connects founders with mentors and funds. It aims to boost women's roles in tech and guide new entrepreneurs.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Refinery CT's focus is on helping female tech entrepreneurs flourish. It creates a welcoming place for them. It connects startups with the resources they need, impacting Connecticut's diverse startup scene alongside groups like Techstars6.

Support and Resources

The Refinery provides great support and resources. It helps participants meet investors and advisors7. In Connecticut, it joins forces with groups like the Angel Investor Forum7.

It offers coworking spaces, mentorship, and funding chances. This helps women-led startups grow well in Connecticut's startup world8.

UConn Technology Incubation Program (TIP)

The UConn Technology Incubation Program (TIP) turns research into real products and services. It boosts economic growth and innovation in Connecticut. The program helps many tech startups in different fields. It creates a great environment for these startups to grow.

University Collaboration

TIP works closely with the University of Connecticut (UConn). This partnership uses UConn's research and resources to help entrepreneurs. In FY2020, TIP supported over 55 startups. These startups made 208 high-quality jobs and got $463 million in funding9. UConn's Technology Commercialization Services also help turn great ideas into useful products and services.

Facilities and Resources

TIP gives startups great facilities like labs and offices. They also offer mentorship and connections to important industry networks. They've opened a new data science incubator in Stamford, Connecticut9. This place is close to big cities like New York City and Hartford. It's perfect for new tech startups and has great infrastructure.

This model has been very successful for TIP. They work with universities and innovation centers to keep attracting top startups. You can learn more about how UConn TIP helps startups here.

CTNext

CTNext is a key part of Connecticut's innovation ecosystem. It helps Connecticut startups grow. This initiative offers entrepreneur guidance like mentorship, seminars, and workspaces. These services meet the varied needs of new businesses10.

CTNext gives out matching grants, helping both new and expanding companies. This eases money worries and supports steady growth10. The “Innovation Place” program in New Haven also lifts the local business scene. It provides shared spaces and lots of support10.

CTNext aims to boost economic growth in many fields, like clean energy and high-tech. It works closely with partners to build a strong innovation ecosystem. This helps Connecticut startups avoid early trouble10.

"The commitment to fostering an environment where Connecticut startups can thrive is evident in the meticulously tailored support programs that CTNext offers," said a program representative.

CTNext makes sure small businesses have what they need. They offer shared spaces and chances for socializing in work areas. This doesn’t just increase productivity. It also creates a lively community of forward-thinkers10. This method supports Connecticut Innovations' goals very well. They provide funding, advice, and strong partnerships, backing the state's business ventures10.

In the end, CTNext symbolizes the group effort needed to push Connecticut's economy forward. It continually supports and builds a dynamic, well-equipped innovation ecosystem. This helps entrepreneurs at every step of their journey.

New Haven Innovation Place

New Haven Innovation Place is crucial for economic growth. It supports local entrepreneurs through programs and shared spaces. It also strengthens community bonds by encouraging local involvement.

Programs and Initiatives

New Haven Innovation Place is part of Connecticut's plan to boost innovation and wealth. It's one of four cities, including Hartford-East Hartford, New London-Groton, and Stamford, to share a $30 million fund11. Over five years, this investment will transform each city into a hub for high-tech businesses11.

In New Haven, animals under study by biopharmaceutical companies get special attention11. There are also programs to upgrade local digital skills. These efforts aim to make New Haven a leader in tech and biopharma sectors.

The Tweed New Haven Airport is growing, thanks to a $100 million joint effort12. A longer runway, a new terminal, and better roads highlight this project12. Better transportation links startups with worldwide markets, easing research and hiring.

New Haven nurtures startups, boosting their chances of success. It measures progress by how well it attracts talent and investments11. This approach has turned New Haven into a center for progressive economics.

Connecticut Clean Energy Fund

The Connecticut Clean Energy Fund is crucial in growing the state's clean energy area. It focuses on research and innovation. By supporting new clean energy companies, it changes the local energy scene. It also tackles important environmental issues. Programs like the Cleantech Open Northeast help entrepreneurs. They get resources to grow their businesses for a greener tomorrow13.

Research and Innovation

The fund is all about encouraging innovation in clean energy. It offers money and advice through a big network of mentors and industry pros. With help from key players like Oak Investment Partners, it's helped 525 companies since 1978. These companies got over $9 billion in investment. This group effort makes sure new solutions get the support and guidance they need13.

Clean Energy Economy

The CT Clean Energy Fund is key to the state's clean energy sector growth. It works to build a strong clean energy economy by drawing investments. It supports industry expansion through policies and communication. The Sandbrook Climate Infrastructure Fund 1, with $1.5 billion, shows the deep financial backup available13. This is boosted by groups like the Northeast Clean Energy Council. They link clean energy startups in the area Northeast Clean Energy Council.

This teamwork highlights the need for innovation funding to create a green future. The CT Clean Energy Fund's mission is in line with big environmental goals. By pushing research and helping startups, the fund is key in making Connecticut's clean energy economy strong and flexible.

Startup Incubators in Connecticut: Comprehensive List

Connecticut is home to many startup incubators that help new companies grow. These incubators are great for making business connections and getting funding. Since 1980, around 12 business incubators started in the U.S. They are important for new businesses14. For every $1 of public funds, incubators create $4.96 in economic value. This shows they're very valuable14.

Networking Opportunities

For startups, making connections is key. Connecticut's incubators give chances to meet other businesses. The Connecticut Business & Industry Association and local chambers help build these connections15. CSI Kickstart and 500 Startups offer learning and more chances to network. They help startups find advisors and partners14.

Funding and Resources

Getting funds is a big challenge for new businesses. Luckily, Connecticut’s incubators offer many funding options. Connecticut Innovations helps tech startups with support15. DreamIt Ventures helps startups grow and find investors. They are among the top 20 active incubators14.

1M/1M aims to help entrepreneurs make a million dollars in revenue. This could create up to ten million jobs14. Innosphere Ventures offers capital, customer strategies, and growth tips. Visit Innosphere Ventures to learn more14.

Startup incubators in Connecticut are key for growing businesses. They offer networking and funding help. With these resources, entrepreneurs can reach new levels of success.

Women-Owned Business Accelerators

In Connecticut, women-owned business accelerators are key to helping female entrepreneurs. They provide tools and support specifically for women. With pitch sessions, mentorship, and funding competitions, these accelerators offer strong support throughout the state.

Yet, getting money to start or grow is a big challenge for these businesses. This mirrors a bigger trend we see across the country16. The Connecticut Ignite Grant Program helps by giving grants of $2,500 to $10,000, crucial for these businesses16.

Lately, more venture capital deals are going to female-founded companies, from 5.6% in 2019 to 7.1% in 202317. Still, the total money given to these companies dipped from 2.6% in 2019 to 2.1% in 202317. This shows the need for business accelerators meant for women17.

Key players in Connecticut's entrepreneurial scene include the Amber Grant, with its $10,000 monthly grants for women businesses16, and the Cartier Women’s Initiative. This initiative offers grants up to $100,000, plus low-cost loans and business training16. Also, Backstage Capital plays a big role by investing in companies led by underrepresented founders, funding over 200 so far17.

Additionally, CTNext helps startups by running mentor programs and seminars. These help entrepreneurs refine their ideas and grow fast18. All these efforts help women-owned businesses do well and last in a tough market.

Hamden Economic Development Corporation

The Hamden Economic Development Corporation (Hamden EDC) is key in helping small businesses and startups grow. They offer support through many programs. One important service is business incubation, helping new companies get the resources and advice they need. In 2014, Hamden EDC received $1,546,396 in funds to create the Hamden Business Incubator19. This shows their strong commitment to supporting new business ventures.

Hamden EDC offers co-working spaces where startups can work together. This helps them connect and grow with others who are just starting out. These spaces are affordable for new businesses. The incubation program also provides mentoring and classes on key business topics. This helps new businesses understand how to succeed.

Many entrepreneurs have succeeded thanks to Hamden EDC's efforts. For example, ConnCORP and Quinnipiac University helped business owners with education and networking. The first group to complete their 14-week accelerator program got support from the Small Business Administration19. Quinnipiac's President, Judy Olian, praised this partnership. You can learn more about this here.

Hamden EDC also works on local economic development by teaming up with universities. By working with the University of Connecticut, they aim to improve the business environment. In 2016, they got $116,667 for the Connecticut Manufacturing Simulation Center. This center focuses on training and creating workforce partnerships19.

Overall, the Hamden EDC is essential for economic growth by supporting business incubation and co-working spaces. Their strategic partnerships strengthen the startup community. Their work is crucial for creating a strong entrepreneurial scene in Hamden and beyond.

Conclusion

Connecticut is a great place for entrepreneurs thanks to its network of incubators and accelerators. It supports new ideas with programs like Upward Labs. Here, startups can get a $300K investment and a six-month program in Hartford, Connecticut20. They even help match startups with big companies in healthcare and real estate20.

Connecticut also focuses on niche markets. Take the Childcare Incubator Project in New Britain, CT, for example. It's the first in the state and helps women become business owners in childcare21. Important people like Congresswoman Hayes and President Biden back it. Plus, it's gained both local and national praise for being so innovative21.

The support in Connecticut really boosts the benefits of its incubators. Startups get all the resources, advice, and guidance they need. Programs like Upward Labs and the Childcare Incubator Project make a big difference. This setup not only helps entrepreneurs but also boosts the economy and innovation. Connecticut keeps drawing in bright startups, making its economy thrive on tech and entrepreneurial spirit.

FAQ

What are some notable startup incubators in Connecticut?

Notable startup incubators in Connecticut include STANLEY +Techstars AI in Advanced Manufacturing, 4Catalyzer, Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, The Refinery CT, UConn Technology Incubation Program (TIP), CTNext, New Haven Innovation Place, Connecticut Clean Energy Fund, and the Hamden Economic Development Corporation.

How does STANLEY +Techstars AI in Advanced Manufacturing support startups?

STANLEY +Techstars AI helps startups with a 12-week program focusing on electrification and Industry 4.0. They provide mentor programs, technical help, and funding opportunities. This aids ventures in the AI and manufacturing sectors to scale up.

What industries does 4Catalyzer focus on?

4Catalyzer, founded by Jonathan Rothberg, focuses on healthcare and technology. Its mission is to impact society through innovation and investments in these sectors.

What services does the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology provide to startups?

The Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology helps businesses in technology, energy, and Industry 4.0. It partners with academia and government to offer resources and investments. This supports startup growth.

What is the mission of The Refinery CT?

The Refinery CT helps women-led tech startups. It offers a 12-week program with access to mentors, networks, and funding. Its goal is to promote diversity in the tech industry.

What resources does the UConn Technology Incubation Program (TIP) offer?

The UConn Technology Incubation Program (TIP) provides lab and office space. It also offers university and industry partnerships. These support translating research into products and services.

How does CTNext help Connecticut entrepreneurs?

CTNext is an innovation hub for entrepreneurs. It offers mentorship, seminars, and workspace solutions. This helps entrepreneurs with business validation and overcoming early challenges.

What initiatives does New Haven Innovation Place support?

New Haven Innovation Place promotes economic growth. It supports entrepreneurs and small businesses with programs and facilities. It welcomes public feedback to improve economic strategies.

What is the focus of the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund?

The Connecticut Clean Energy Fund pushes for clean energy advancements. It leads research, innovation, and policy development. Stakeholders work together to boost Connecticut's clean energy economy.

What support do women-owned business accelerators in Connecticut provide?

Accelerators in Connecticut offer support tailored to women-owned businesses. They provide pitch support, mentoring, and an annual funding competition. This aids female entrepreneurs in the state.

How does the Hamden Economic Development Corporation assist startups?

The Hamden Economic Development Corporation has an incubator with workspace and mentorship. It also educates on workforce development and financing. This helps startups succeed.

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