CEI Ventures

CEI Ventures is a venture capital firm investing in early-stage companies in Maine and the Northeast United States. The firm focuses on businesses that provide social, economic, and environmental benefits to the region. CEI Ventures seeks to invest in companies that are emerging, growing, or undergoing a transformation, with a preference for those located in underserved markets throughout New England. The firm typically invests between $250,000 and $1 million, often through multiple financings, and prefers to exit its investments between five and seven years. CEI Ventures aims to take a board seat in its portfolio companies to actively support their growth and success. Since its inception in 1994, CEI Ventures has raised over $45 million and invested in more than 50 companies, contributing to the creation of over 2,000 new jobs, the majority of which have benefited people with low to moderate incomes. The firm's portfolio includes companies in various sectors, such as natural foods, software, biotechnology, and scientific instruments. CEI Ventures is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI), a not-for-profit Community Development Corporation founded in 1977. CEI Ventures operates as a for-profit venture capital subsidiary of CEI, aligning with CEI's mission to build just, vibrant, and climate-resilient futures for people and communities. The firm is headquartered in Portland, Maine, and serves the entire state, with a particular focus on rural and underserved areas. CEI Ventures is committed to socially responsible investing, aiming to generate competitive financial returns for its investors while simultaneously fostering economic development and job creation in the region. The firm's investment philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that strategic capital deployment can drive both financial success and significant social impact, aligning profit with purpose. CEI Ventures is managed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to supporting the growth and success of its portfolio companies, with a focus on creating quality jobs and promoting environmentally sustainable enterprises. The firm's leadership includes Chandler Jones, Managing Director, who oversees investment prospecting, due diligence, deal closing, and portfolio company mentorship. Under his leadership, CEI Ventures continues to support the growth of high-impact, growth-oriented companies in Maine and the Northeast, contributing to the region's economic development and resilience. CEI Ventures' commitment to socially responsible investing and its focus on underserved markets make it a unique and impactful player in the venture capital landscape of Maine and the broader Northeast United States. The firm's approach combines financial acumen with a deep understanding of the local communities it serves, ensuring that its investments not only yield financial returns but also contribute positively to the social and environmental fabric of the region. Through its strategic investments and active involvement in portfolio companies, CEI Ventures plays a crucial role in fostering innovation, job creation, and sustainable development in Maine and the Northeast United States. The firm's dedication to its mission and its proactive investment strategy have established it as a key contributor to the economic vitality and resilience of the region, making it a valuable partner for entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to make a positive impact through their ventures.