Business Development Associate

AdvanceCT is a collaborative, mission-driven nonprofit that grows Connecticut’s economy by driving job creation and capital investment across the state. We are seeking an Associate to join our high-performing Business Development Team to support attraction, retention, and expansion efforts in collaboration with the business community and the State. AdvanceCT is a relatively flat organization, affording the Associate regular exposure to senior team members, direct involvement in high impact projects and strategic initiatives, and opportunities for career growth. This role is based in New Haven, Connecticut, with some opportunity for remote work and occasional in-state or international travel.

Key Responsibilities  

  • Conduct targeted business research to identify and qualify high-potential prospects.
  • Build relationships with companies through strategic outreach to generate interest in Connecticut and advance opportunities through the pipeline.
  • Prepare and present high-quality pitch decks to support client decision-making.
  • Liaison between clients and key state, regional, and ecosystem partners to facilitate successful project execution.
  • Contribute to pipeline management by validating project status, maintaining accurate data in CRM systems, and supporting senior staff with project execution.
  • Maintain strong relationships with in-state employers to understand operational needs and industry trends and to identify growth or support opportunities.
  • Represent AdvanceCT and Connecticut at industry events, trade shows, and conferences to expand networks and generate new business leads.

Candidate Qualifications

  • Strong organizational, teamwork, and follow-through skills, attention to detail, and professionalism.
  • Working knowledge of business and economic data.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Comfortable with outbound outreach and follow-up.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Preferred: experience with business intelligence, industry or workforce analysis, pipeline development, or relationship management through CRM.
  • Bachelor’s degree and 2–4 years of relevant experience. Valid driver’s license and passport; willingness to travel (in-state and occasional international).

Compensation and Benefits

Annual Salary: $69,000-76,000
Health, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance
15 PTO days and 11 paid holidays per year
401(k) retirement plan

To Apply

AdvanceCT is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity and inclusion; it does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, origin, gender, identity, orientation, age, disability or veteran status. Candidates of diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to humanresources@advancect.org.