Tour de Connecticut
DAY 1️⃣ RECAP: We kicked off the Tour de Connecticut with a powerful start yesterday, visiting incredible companies across the state. From pedal power to purpose-driven innovation, Day 1 was all about connection, community, and celebrating what makes Connecticut bold! 🗺️🚴♂️
#tourdect #innovation #portfolio #investment #startups
We kicked off Day 1 of our Tour de Connecticut with an inspiring visit to @kibuhq — one of our portfolio companies that’s empowering people with disabilities to build essential life skills through hands-on learning and smart design. Innovation with real impact, right here in Connecticut! #tourdect #connecticutinnovations #bike #innovation
From baby care to better brews, our CPG innovators are proving momentum matters. ⏭️
@healthybaby.co 🍼
@arccosgolf ⛳️
@hallyhair 🎨
@athleticbrewing 🍻
@theowlsbrew 🍓
@lookopticusa 🕶️
@goodsamfoods 🥜
Zip Dips 🍅
@govnedlamont joined us on #Day1 of the Tour de Connecticut to meet our CPG companies and hear from Rob Sweeney of @sycamorepartners, Michael Duda of @bebullish, and Michael Salerno of @wheelhouse360 about navigating the CPG market and growing an authentic brand. 📈
#tourdect #innovation #cpg #venturecapital
We are so excited to be partnering with so many incredible companies and local businesses! The Tour de Connecticut would not be possible without their commitment and support. #tourdect #connecticut #innovation #entrepreneur
The calm before the ride! From banners to bikes, we’re setting the stage for an unforgettable week across Connecticut. 🚲💡#tourdect #innovation #startups #biketour #connecticut
Only 1 more day to go! The Tour de Connecticut isn’t just a bike ride – it’s about building connections out on the road and enjoying 200 miles of Connecticut’s most scenic towns and innovation hubs! Who’s ready? 🚴🚴♀️🚴♂️ #tourdect #connecticut #innovation #bike #venturecapital
The Tour de Connecticut starts in just two days! Here are two of the amazing guest riders joining us on our ride – Simon Berg, an AI Expert and Mike Tropea, Commercial Leader! 🚲 #tourdect #connecticut #innovation #investing #biketour
In honor of three more days till the Tour de Connecticut kicks off, we’re reflecting on three reasons we bike. 🚴 On Monday, we’ll hit the road to meet founders, spark real connections, and celebrate the local spots that make Connecticut home. #tourdect #bike #entrepreneurship #connecticut
A special view of our ride 🚴♂️✨ Take a look at some of the stops on our upcoming tour! #biketour #innovationinmotion #connecticut #connecticutinnovations #tourdect
Why He Rides:
We asked Mike what motivates him to keep riding. “My enthusiasm for our state… its vibrant ecosystem of growing early-stage companies, its diverse beauty and its warm, wonderful and charming residents,” he says. For him, the Tour is a chance to celebrate everything that makes Connecticut special.
Favorite Local Spot:
West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square. With its shops, restaurants and vibrant community atmosphere, Mike believes it’s one of the state’s best-run municipalities.
Most Excited For:
Beautiful coastlines and backroads through small towns and villages.
Best Memory:
One of Mike’s favorite Tour moments was riding the historic Rocky Hill–Glastonbury ferry across the Connecticut River—an experience he describes as “a walk back through time.”
Why She Rides:
For Shari, the Tour is about connection and community. “It’s such a unique way to experience our state—not just the scenery, but also the energy of riding together as a group. It’s an opportunity to engage with local businesses, residents and communities along the way while sharing in the camaraderie of the ride.”
Favorite Local Spot:
Shari treasures Elizabeth Park in West Hartford, a local gem with trails, open spaces and gorgeous gardens. For her, it’s a reminder of the natural beauty Connecticut offers year-round.
Riding Hack:
Stay hydrated and don’t wait until you’re hungry to eat! “I try to keep quick, energy-rich snacks on hand and make sure to pace myself so I can enjoy the ride as much as the finish.”
Best Memory:
One of her favorite Tour memories is seeing guest riders join different sections of the route. “No matter how far someone rides, they instantly become part of the Tour family,” Shari says.