About this programme
The Vermont Seed Capital Fund is run by the Vermont Center for Emerging Technologies (VCET) and makes early-stage investments into Vermont-based teams and companies. VCET describes its focus as backing 'undeniable founders' in emerging markets, across most sectors that have a tech-enabled, scalable model.
VCET manages Vermont Seed Capital Fund 1, established in 2010 with $6 million in capital, and a newer Vermont Growth Fund 2, established in 2024 with $9 million. Both are evergreen funds, meaning capital revolves back into new investments as portfolio companies exit or repay.
VCET says it will fund alone or syndicate with other investors, lead or follow a round, and takes a long-term view through a company's full lifecycle. It works with inventors, startups, spin-offs, and early-stage companies, including some already generating several million dollars in sales.
How it works
VCET evaluates opportunities around four questions: Team ('Why you?'), Tech ('Why this?'), Timing ('Why now?'), and Terms ('What benefit?').
VCET says it does not require formal pitches or polished slide decks to start a conversation.
Real estate, retail, and restaurants (what VCET calls 'the three R's') are excluded from investment consideration.
Who can apply
The team and operations must be Vermont-based.
The company should be early or seed stage, working in a tech-enabled, scalable business model across most sectors.
Real estate, retail, and restaurant businesses are not eligible for investment.
How to apply
- Email venture@vcet.co with information about your company; there is no formal pitch deck or application form required to start.
- If VCET is not a fit, it maintains a spreadsheet of other Vermont-based investors it can point you toward.
Frequently asked
What sectors won't VCET invest in?
VCET excludes what it calls 'the three R's': real estate, retail, and restaurants.
Do we need a formal pitch deck to reach out?
No. VCET says it does not require formal pitches or flashy slides to start a conversation.
How do we contact VCET about funding?
Email venture@vcet.co with information about your company.
Does VCET only make first investments, or does it follow on?
VCET says it will fund alone or syndicate with others, lead or follow a round, and takes a long-term view through a company's full lifecycle.
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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.