Connect expands, looks to drive more funds to startups.(SAN DIEGO)

Connect, a nonprofit that supports entrepreneurs involved in the technology and life sciences industries, said July 29 that it's expanding to address the problems associated with commercializing early stage technology innovations.

New initiatives include a full-time Washington, D.C., advocate and pursuit of a new funding model to accelerate investments in early stage startups.

Connect also aims to increase the growth of high-growth clusters such as wireless health, sports innovation, cyber security and autonomous robotics.

Local venture and technology veteran Moya Gollaher has joined the organization to lead the expansion, including fundraising and program development for the new initiatives. Gollaher was previously a principal with Enterprise Partners Venture Capital, where she was responsible for marketing and business development.

According to Connect, 66 new technology companies were created in the first quarter, 43 percent more than the same quarter of 2008.

Research data shows that after participating in Connect's business creation and development program, startups contribute $3 million per year to the local economy, increase full-time hiring 77 percent and part-time hiring 246 percent.

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