Jennifer Mathieu

About Jennifer Mathieu

I build companies, programs, and platforms that help founders launch and scale.As Executive Director of the Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at UConn, I lead initiatives that support startups and small businesses across Connecticut and beyond. I’m also an entrepreneur, educator, and advisor, having founded consumer brands and worked closely with founders and executive teams on strategy and growth.Co-host of the Timely Topics podcast with Rory McGloin & Jen Mathieu.Passionate about women in business, innovation, and the evolving intersection of entrepreneurship, wellness, and technology. Recognized as a Hartford Business Journal Top Women in Business and a multi-time 40 Under 40 honoree.

Experience

1. Executive Director

   Connecticut Center For Entrepreneurship And Innovation Ccei

   Aug 2021 — Present · Hartford, CT, US

   The Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CCEI), housed within the UConn School of Business, is the university’s hub for entrepreneurial exploration, education, and acceleration. Established in 2007, CCEI was the first organized center to support entrepreneurship activity at UConn.CCEI empowers students, faculty, staff, and alumni to transform ideas into impactful ventures through hands-on programming, immersive experiences, and strategic mentorship. Whether someone is taking their first steps into entrepreneurship or scaling their startup, CCEI provides a clear path forward, offering guidance, resources, and a thriving network to support every stage of the journey.We offer a robust suite of programs tailored to meet the needs of diverse innovators. From early-stage ideation to venture-building support, CCEI fosters an environment where ideas can grow into viable companies. The center also supports broader community engagement with local businesses, and professional development through various initiatives.Founded several programs for entrepreneurs and innovators including; Get Seeded, Traction, Ignite Hartford, BUILD Hartford, Entrepreneurship Internship Program, CCEI Mentor Network, and the InsurTech Fellows Program, as well as relaunched the xCITE: Women in Entrepreneurship Network.Mentors, coaches, and teaches hundreds of startups and entrepreneurs.

Education

• University of Connecticut

  B.A., Psychology

• University of Connecticut

  Executive MBA

• University of Connecticut

  Advanced Graduate Certificate, Digital Marketing Strategy

  2025

• Springfield College

  M Ed., Higher Education Administration