Tour de ConnecticutToday’s Tour de Connecticut spotlight features two leaders from Tidal River Fund, Amy Bennett and Melissa Santoro. Together, they’re championing women investors and impact-focused founders while building stronger connections across Connecticut’s entrepreneurial community—on and off the road
🌊 Amy Bennett
Hometown: Norwalk, CT
Role: Head of Due Diligence, Tidal River Fund
Why She Rides:
“I love road cycling, and this ride combines many of my favorite things—riding, community, entrepreneurship, and my love of Connecticut,” Amy says. She credits the energy and vision of the Connecticut Innovations team for inspiring her to take part.
Favorite Local Spot:
Amy loves SoNo (South Norwalk). Once rundown, it’s now a lively district full of creativity and community. From the brick-lined streets and waterfront views to the SoNo Collection, SoNo captures Connecticut’s spirit of reinvention. Her must-visits include SoNo Sky Bar, the Maritime Aquarium, MaaMa (the first Georgian restaurant in CT), and Lazy Sister, a pan-Chinese restaurant.
How Her Mission Aligns:
“At Tidal River, we fuel women-led and underrepresented founders with capital and community,” Amy explains. “The Tour de Connecticut celebrates innovation, resilience, and momentum—the same qualities we look for in the entrepreneurs we back.”
Fun Fact:
Her cycling playlist includes “Get Motivated ft. jstlbby” and Neil Frances’ “Tuesday”—instant energy boosts for long rides.
🌊 Melissa S.
Hometown: Guilford, CT
Role: Finance & Strategy Leader, Tidal River Fund
Why She Rides:
Melissa sees the Tour as a creative way to highlight innovation across Connecticut while building real connections. “I’m proud to ride alongside others who share a passion for growing Connecticut’s startup economy,” she says.
Favorite Local Spot:
Melissa highlights The Wave in Guilford, a new inclusive social enterprise providing job training and competitive employment for young adults with disabilities. She’s also excited that the ride will pass through Norwich Inn and Enko, an AI-driven crop health company supporting farmers.
How Her Mission Aligns:
“Tidal River is focused on supporting women and underrepresented founders while also educating and empowering women to become angel investors,” Melissa shares. “The Tour mirrors that spirit by creating space for new voices, highlighting innovation, and making sure people feel part of the journey.”
Fun Fact:
Melissa first discovered Tidal River through a Connecticut Innovations social media post—a discovery that set her on a new path as an investor and community builder.