Internship

Connecticut Innovations (CI)

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.

Office of the CEO Internship

Join CI’s Office of the CEO 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 are seeking bachelor's degree and MBA students with a strong interest in venture capital with a desire to match their academic work with professional work experience.

Preference will be given to candidates demonstrating curriculum, research and/or practical experience alignment with our mission and enrolled in a Connecticut College or University or a resident of Connecticut.

Responsibilities

• Data collection and analysis on prospective investments
• Cash flow modeling for individual projects, programs, or investments
• Sourcing potential investments though online research and in person visits
• with initial assessments of applicant's business plans in relation to CI investment criteria
• Assistance with due diligence activities to obtain and analyze pertinent information relative to the applicant's management, market, technology, products, competitors, financial history and projections, and business strategy and plan
• Assistance in preparing analyses and presentations to the CI Investment Committee
• Assistance with investment monitoring activities such as financial analysis, market research, etc.
• Participation in lead generation, business development activities
• Prepare research and presentations for Board of Director and other key stakeholder meetings
• Assist with special projects in various departments as needed

Qualifications

• Current MBA or bachelor’s student
• Strong interest in venture capital and early-stage innovation
• 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.

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