About this programme
The AI/Q Fund is a $50 million fund that Connecticut Innovations, the state's quasi-public venture capital arm, uses to invest in companies working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and deep tech. It targets scalable, commercial ventures the fund describes as designed to advance Connecticut and the nation over the next decade.
Connecticut Innovations says more than a third of its overall portfolio already incorporates AI, and expects that share to keep growing toward nearly full portfolio penetration, which is part of the rationale for a fund dedicated specifically to AI and quantum companies.
Gwen Cheni directs the fund, responsible for its strategic direction and capital deployment. Her background includes co-founding a stealth startup, a partner role at Khosla Ventures and IndieBio/SOSV, founding Galapagos Ventures (an early-stage fund at the bio/AI intersection), 18 years on Wall Street at Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan, an economics degree with a computer science minor from Yale, an MBA with an econometrics concentration from the University of Chicago, and two years of wet lab research at UCSF studying glioblastoma immunotherapy.
Highlighted portfolio companies include Arccos Golf, Bexorg, Capacity, CopyLeaks, Curacity, Kibu, Loops AI, Naboo, Shelf Inc., and Yuma Asset Management.
Who can apply
Companies must be willing to relocate or expand to Connecticut to be considered for funding. The fund's page does not state a per-company investment range, a required stage, or an industry test beyond the AI/quantum/deep tech focus.
How to apply
- Submit a pitch deck through Connecticut Innovations' online application form.
- Include your company name, location, a brief business description, contact information, university affiliation status if applicable, and your pitch deck or business plan (file size capped at 50 MB).
Frequently asked
Do I need to already be based in Connecticut?
No, but you need to be willing to relocate or expand into Connecticut to be considered for funding.
How much can a company get from the AI/Q Fund?
Connecticut Innovations has not published a per-company minimum or maximum for this fund; the total fund is $50 million.
What kind of company is this fund looking for?
Scalable, commercial companies working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and deep tech.
Has the fund made any investments yet?
Yes. Connecticut Innovations highlights companies including Arccos Golf, Bexorg, Capacity, CopyLeaks, Curacity, Kibu, Loops AI, Naboo, Shelf Inc., and Yuma Asset Management as part of its portfolio.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.