Governor Rell Announces Launch of

$9 Million Connecticut Clean Tech Fund

            Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the launch of a fund that will make investments in seed- and early-stage companies focused on innovations that conserve energy and resources, protect the environment or eliminate harmful waste.

            The fund, which will be called the Connecticut Clean Tech Fund, will be administered by Connecticut Innovations (CI), the state’s quasi-public authority responsible for technology investing and innovation development.

            “We want to position Connecticut as the preferred location to grow clean tech jobs,” said Governor Rell. “The fund will help Connecticut entrepreneurs to develop cutting-edge solutions to address climate change and other global challenges. Their innovations in renewable energy, energy efficiency, environmental remediation and other vital clean tech areas will create jobs in clean energy and related areas.”

            The Governor is encouraging entrepreneurs, emerging companies, university technology transfer offices and other interested parties to contact CI for additional information about the Connecticut Clean Tech Fund.

            The Connecticut Clean Tech Fund was formed through a partnership between CI, the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) and the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF). CI and DECD have each made an initial commitment of $3 million to launch the fund. CCEF has pledged an additional $3 million for investments into companies that meet its criteria.

            For more information about the Connecticut Clean Tech Fund, please visit www.ctinnovations.com/cleantech , call (860) 257-2334 or email info@ctinnovations.com .

            Governor Rell has issued a proclamation declaring this week, November 10-14, 2008, as “Innovation and Technology Week” in Connecticut.