Export Marketing Assistance - Federal
Government/Export Assistance Center - DOC
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Agency: U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) - Export Assistance Center
Program Description:
The U.S. Department of Commerce is the leading federal export promotion agency, with offices in
87 foreign countries and a variety of programs and services to assist American firms (especially
medium and small sized firms) with expansion into foreign markets. The district office will provide
information on the following:
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Export counseling
Programs to identify potential foreign markets
Programs to promote products and services in overseas markets
Foreign market research
Foreign country commercial guides
Background reports on foreign firms
Export seminars and conferences
Trade missions and trade exhibits
Export documentation requirements
Trade complaint assistance
One-on-one counseling services by international trade specialists on the extensive number of
Commerce Department export programs/services and Federal Trade Finance include the following:
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Market Statistics: Product import and export data, by country, in the Department's computer
database
Market Research Reports: A wide variety of reports on specific products and product lines
available from the Department's computer database.
Country Commercial Guides: General economic and marketing background reports of
virtually every country in the world are available including: foreign government trade
regulations and restrictions, foreign tariff information, and foreign government
agency/distributors termination laws
Trade Opportunities: Foreign trade leads for specific products and services
Overseas Advertisement Magazine: Published four to six times annually and circulated by
US & FCS overseas posts. U.S. firms can insert a listing of their products and services for a
fee. (Titled Commercial News USA) (Fee charged)
Search for an Agent or Distributor: (Titled IPS- International Partner Search) (Fee charged)
Flexible Market Research (FMR): This program produces custom responses to questions
and issues related to a client's specific product or services. (Fee charged)
Personalized mini-trade mission: A custom-tailored service of prearranged appointment and
introductions to targeted foreign business people. (Titled GKS-Gold Key Service) (Fee
charged)
Trade Missions: The Commerce Department conducts a limited number of U.S. trade
missions to foreign countries each year. A newly developed type of trade mission is The
"Matchmaker Trade Delegation" which literally "matches" small and medium sized U.S.
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firms to foreign channels of distributions for specific types of products. (Pro-rated fee
charged)
Trade Shows: The US & FCS regularly enables U.S. firms to participate in a variety of
overseas trade shows by providing space and marketing assistance in selected foreign
sponsored exhibitions or US & FCS sponsored events. (Pro-rated fee charged)
Catalog Shows: For specific, as well as broad product areas in foreign markets where
potential buyers, agents, distributors, and end-users are invited to examine the catalogs of
U.S. firms. (Pro-rated fee charged)
Background Check on Foreign Firms: Brief background report on a foreign company
containing an evaluation of the foreign firm together with basic information on the
company's activities. (Titled ICP-International Company Profile) (Fee charged)
U.S. Export Documentation Requirements: Information and forms are available on
Department of Commerce export licensing requirements http://www.bis.doc.gov, the
Shipper's Export Declaration and Schedule B numbers www.census.gov.
Exporting Seminars: The Export Assistance Center co-sponsors with other organizations in
Connecticut special seminars throughout the year on various aspects of international trade
and marketing. http://www.export.gov/connecticut.
Programs and services are available to export-ready firms. Some programs/services require a fee.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Anne S. Evans, Director
Export Assistance Center
213 Court Street
Suite 903
Middletown, CT 06457-3346
Phone: (860) 638-6950
Fax: (860) 638-6970
Anne.Evans@trade.gov
www.export.gov/connecticut
Small Business Assistance Center - Greater New
Haven Chamber of Commerce
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Agency: Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce
Program Description:
The Small Business Assistance Center at the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce
provides assessment, information, resources, referrals, and an 8-week Small Business Academy
course for startup and existing small businesses. No-cost consultative services are provided in all
aspects of how to start a small business or grow and expand an existing one. The SBAC provides
individually customized business strategies designed to meet the needs and goals of each client.
Assessment and referral service to expert technical assistance available at no cost in the following
areas:
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Business Plans
Legal
Access to capital
Technology
Credit reinstatement
Marketing
Accounting
Insurance
Licensing
Small Business Academy 8-week course:
The Small Business Academy is an 8-session business training course designed to provide the
steps you need to start a small business and the information you need to expand an existing one.
Key Topics Covered Include:
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Having a plan
Getting the money
Planning for a profit
Essential marketing & advertising
How to retain customers
Utilizing technology to your advantage
SBAC services and the Small Business Academy are available to all residents and business owners
of the Greater New Haven Chamber’s 15-town region, and to all those wishing to start or grow a
small business in the New Haven area.
The Greater New Haven Chamber’s geographic region includes:
Bethany, Branford, Cheshire, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, Milford, New Haven, North
Branford, North Haven, Orange, Wallingford, West Haven, and Woodbridge
No prior business experience is necessary. Contact the Business Assistance Center via phone or
email for an appointment.
Program Region: Bethany, Branford, Cheshire, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, Milford,
New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Wallingford, West Haven, Woodbridge
Program Contact(s):
Paul Tommaselli
Small Business Assistance Center
900 Chapel Street
10th Floor
New Haven, CT 06510
Phone: (203) 782-4342
Fax: (203) 782-4329
ptommaselli@gnhcc.com
www.gnhcc.com/work/?id=1
Accounting Assistance For Disadvantaged
Businesses/Persons - CAAS
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Agency: Community Accounting Aid and Services, Inc (CAAS)
Program Description:
Pro Bono Volunteer accountants to assist economically disadvantaged businesses, individuals and
not-for-profit organizations. Services include but are not limited to:
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Businesses and not-for-profit start-ups
One-on-one counseling and assistance
Tax preparation clinics
Educational presentations and courses on accounting, tax and financial management
Tax delinquency issues
Referrals
Eligibility for assistance:
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Individuals with a household income of $25,000 or less.
Married couples with a household income of $30,000 or less.
Families of three with a household income of $35,000 or less.
Families of four or more with a household income of $40,000 or less.
Not-for-profit organizations with annual revenue of $100,000 or less.
Not presently using an accountant.
Not-for-profit board of directors search: no income limit.
Resources:
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Book (English) "Starting a Small Business in Connecticut"
Book (Spanish) "Inciando su propio Negocio"
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Jack Collins, Executive Director
965 Main Street
Meriden, CT 06450-6006
Phone: (203) 235-2333 x 7146
Fax: (203) 440-2540
ctcaas@hotmail.com
www.ctaccountingaid.org
Annual Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce
Women in Networking Grant
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Agency: Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce
Program Description:
The Women in Networking Grant program provides financial assistance to women 18 years of age
or older in the Greater Valley area including the towns of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby, Oxford,
Seymour and Shelton. The money is intended as a grant-in-aid for expenses to enhance the
applicant's current business or to start a new business. The grant may be used for expenses such
as equipment, tuition, books, transportation, business wardrobe or childcare necessary to reach the
applicant's career goals due to the changing demands in their lives. They must have a need for
financial assistance with their expenses to improve their marketable skills or those of their business.
The minimum one-time grant is $500. Greater amounts may be awarded according to individual
needs and available funds. Recipients will also be invited to a complimentary one-year membership
to the Women in Networking Group (WIN).
The money is intended as a grant-in-aid for expenses to enhance the applicant's current business
or to start a new business.
Information and applications are available online at www.greatervalleychamber.com or by
contacting the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce at 203-925-4981 or by email
toinfo@greatervalleychamber.com. Annual application deadline is in October.
Program Region: Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby, Oxford, Seymour and Shelton
Program Contact(s):
10 Progress Drive
Shelton, CT 06484
Phone: (203) 925-4981
Fax: (203) 925-4984
info@greatervalleychamber.com
www.greatervalleychamber.com
Bridgeport Foreign Trade Institute
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Agency: University of Bridgeport
Program Description:
The Bridgeport Foreign Trade Institute (BFTI) is a division of the Department of Marketing, Law and
International Business in the School of Business at the University of Bridgeport.
Activities include:
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Organizing international seminars, conferences, and both trade and reverse trade missions.
Developing a network of local firms that are interested in communicating and sharing ideas
and prospects with other firms. Hosts trade groups dealing with international commerce.
Providing consultation service to those firms that would like to start to do business overseas
or to examine their existing operations.
Assisting the local government in its plans to internationalize the community.
Helping to identify career opportunities in international trade.
Open to all business and government agencies.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Bridgeport Foreign Trade Institute
230 Park Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06604
Phone: (203) 576-4384
Fax: (203) 576-4388
www.bridgeport.edu/centers/ernest.html
Business Outreach Center - MEDA
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Agency: Municipal Economic Development Agency (MEDA)
Program Description:
Housed in the New Britain Chamber of Commerce, the Municipal Economic Development Agency
(MEDA) acts as an information clearinghouse for existing, expanding and new businesses who may
be eligible for a range of services.
Services include the following:
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provides and promotes business growth in the City of New Britain in the areas of business
development, economic development
city-state and federal tax incentive and abatement programs
institutional and non-institutional financing programs
commercial and industrial real estate services
employment and job training programs
Services are available to New Britain-based businesses and businesses interested in relocating to
New Britain.
Program Region: New Britain
Program Contact(s):
William P. Carroll
One Court Street
New Britain, CT 06051
Phone: (860) 225-5507
Phone: (860) 229-1665
Fax: (860) 223-8341
Center for International Business Education &
Research (CIBER) - UCONN
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Agency: University of Connecticut (UCONN)
Program Description:
Seminars on international business issues, such as culture, exporting, the state of regional markets,
etc.
All businesses interested in global issues are welcome to attend programs. No direct funding for
businesses is available.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Subhash C. Jain, Director
International Business Programs
CIBER/GEGLC
School of Business
2100 Hillside Road U-1041
Storrs, CT 06269
Phone: (860) 486-4134
Fax: (860) 486-5497
Kelly Aceto, Managing Director
International Business Programs
CIBER/GEGLC
School of Business
2100 Hillside Road U-1041
Storrs, CT 06269
Phone: (860) 486-5458
Fax: (860) 486-5497
Michele Metcalf
International Business Programs
CIBER/GEGLC
School of Business
2100 Hillside Road U-1041
Storrs, CT 06269
Center for Professional Development - UofH
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Agency: University of Hartford (UofH)
Program Description:
The Center for Professional Development at the Asylum Avenue campus of the University of
Hartford offers career development services for women & men from across Connecticut. Trained,
experienced professionals assist individuals, employees and managers of companies with:
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Increasing self-knowledge of values, interests and skills
Identifying career plans and goals
Exploring career options
Strategizing ways to advance in their careers
Presenting skills and competencies effectively to managers or potential employers
Finding direction and meaning in work
Balancing work and family
Individuals learn a process for career planning and tools/resources for self-management of careers.
Individual career development counseling is conducted in one-hour, confidential counseling
sessions for as many times as the individual, or the employer, needs. Group career development
workshops can be tailored to an employer's specifications and may run from two hours to two to
three days in length.
The Center will custom design this service for any company. Services can be offered on-site or at
the Center for Professional Development. The Center also provides training programs and
continuing and professional education workshops for managers, team leaders, human resource
professionals, construction industry employees and child care professionals.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Eleta Jones, Associate Director
Center for Professional Development
University of Hartford
50 Elizabeth Street
Hartford, CT 06105
Phone: (860) 768-5619
www.hartford.edu/cpd
Child Care Facilities Microloan Program - CIC
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Agency: Community Investment Corporation (CIC)
Program Description:
The Child Care Facilities Microloan Fund helps increase the availability of child care for working
families. CTCIC is Connecticut's statewide intermediary lender for this program in partnership with
Connecticut's Health and Educational Facilities Authority and the U.S. Small Business
Administration. Up to a $25,000 fixed rate microloan can be combined with other financing sources
to create a $125,000 financing package. (See CTCIC-DECD Partner Loan Program)
Eligible uses include:
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Equipment & furniture
Insurance premiums & marketing programs
Professional fees
Permitting, licensing & zoning approval costs
Features:
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Available to startups
For profit & nonprofits
Ongoing business consulting services available free of charge to borrowers
Benefits:
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CTCIC will consider startup businesses
All business types are eligible
Free access to expertise for all phases of your business
Requirements:
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Business must demonstrate an ability to repay the debt
Refinance of existing debt is not permissible
Minimum collateral is a lien on all business assets
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Carolyn Welch
2315 Whitney Avenue
Suite 2B
Hamden, CT 06518
Phone: (203) 776-6172 Ext. 132
Fax: (203) 776-6837
Charles (Buck) Harris
2315 Whitney Avenue
Suite 2B
Hamden, CT 06518
Phone: (203) 776-6172 Ext. 128
Fax: (203) 776-6837
charris@ciclending.com
Child Care Facilities Microloan Program - SBA
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Agency: U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Program Description:
The Child Care Facilities Microloan Program is part of an initiative between the Department of
Social Services and Education (DDS), Connecticut Health & Education Facilities Authority (CHEFA),
Connecticut Community Investment Corporation (CTCIC) and the Small Business Administration
(SBA). The program was designed to assist small business owners with startups and the expansion
of childcare facilities and childcare providers in the state, both profit and non-profit.
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Loan size is limited to $25,000
Loan proceeds may be used to purchase equipment, furniture, fixtures and improvements,
insurance premiums, legal, design and planning fees, licensing and required approval costs
Interest rate is fixed for the term of the loan
No application or origination fees
Technical assistance is available free of charge to all borrowers to assist them in the successful
operation of the childcare business. For more information on this loan program, contact Carolyn
Welch.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Buck Harris
Connecticut Community Investment Corporation
2315 Whitney Avenue
Suite 2B
Hamden, CT 06518
Phone: (203) 776-6172 Ext. 128
Fax: (203) 776-6837
www.ctcic.org/chefa.htm
Connecticut Community Investment Corporation
2315 Whitney Avenue
Suite 2B
Hamden, CT 06518
Phone: (203) 776-6172
Fax: (203) 776-6837
CIC - EDA Loans - Defense Diversification
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Agency: Community Investment Corporation (CIC)
Program Description:
Loan fund targets businesses in the defense industry but can be used by other types of small
business that will be expanding and creating job opportunities within the program's territory.
An Economic Development Administration loan is not intended to be stand-alone financing tool. In a
typical transaction the EDA loan will represent 33 percent of the total project costs. Loans from
other private sector lenders and/or borrower equity make up the remaining 64 percent.
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EDA loan proceeds can be used to fund the purchase and installation of machinery and
equipment; real estate(purchases or renovations, including leasehold improvements) and
limited working capital.
EDA loan proceeds cannot be used to refinance debt or pay taxes.
Interest rate and terms will reflect market conditions and level of risk. Start-up small
businesses will be considered.
The EDA Loan program is an economic development program. To be eligible the small business
must be in the targeted industry (defense) or create/retain jobs.
Program Region: Bethany, Branford, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, New Haven, North
Branford, North Haven, Orange, West Haven, Woodbridge.
Program Contact(s):
Gary Toole
2315 Whitney Avenue
Suite 2B
Hamden, CT 06518
Phone: (203) 776-6172 Ext. 124
Fax: (203) 776-6837
gtoole@ciclending.com
www.ciclending.com
Connecticut Corporate Renewal Program - DECD
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Agency: Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD)
Program Description:
Connecticut Turnaround Management Association's (CT TMA) assistance program was developed
in conjunction with the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development to
provide companies in the state with advice and counsel on how to handle a financial or operating
crisis or turnaround. The program helps the management of troubled companies confront their
problems with the assistance of proven senior-level managers. These turnaround professionals
understand the steps management must take to stabilize their companies in order to obtain
financing or even to survive.
Companies seeking a turnaround or those in need of professional management and businessrelated services are required to submit pertinent financial documents such as business history,
financial statements (three years), business plans and projections.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Tricia Paesani
Office Of Business and Industry Development
505 Hudson Street
Hartford, CT 06106
Phone: (860) 270-8215
Fax: (860) 270-8055
patricia.paesani@ct.gov
CWTA Trade Counseling Service
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Agency: Connecticut World Trade Association (CWTA)
Program Description:
CWTA offers a trade assistance initiative that helps manufacturers increase their participation in the
global market place by addressing the issues of time, fear and market access. This initiative is
based on the transfer of international knowledge through a team mentoring concept. The team
mentoring approach is geared to assist companies determine their level of export readiness,
develop market plans and facilitate the marketing of their products internationally.
Service is available under contract to CWTA.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
James C. Nicholas, Executive Director
52 George E. Pipkin Way
Bridgeport, CT 06608
Phone: (203) 345-2066
Fax: (203) 846-9180
NickCWTA@aol.com
Economic Development Assistance - HEDCo
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Agency: Hartford Economic Development Corporation (HEDCo)
Program Description:
HEDCO acts as a one-stop assistance center for businesses in Hartford, businesses that wish to
locate in Hartford or woman-owned or minority-owned or startup businesses in those towns
physically contiguous to Hartford. HEDCO provides technical assistance, loan packaging, regulatory
assistance, locational assistance and problem solving services.
HEDCO personnel are familiar with city and state regulations and have a general in-depth
knowledge of the available real estate within the City of Hartford. HEDCO also provides information
upon request on the necessary state agencies needed to contact for applicable registration,
regulatory of licensing requirements to establish a new business.
Economic development assistance is provided free of charge to City of Hartford businesses.
The program includes:
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Consulting services
Problem solving, i.e., expansion licensing or zoning
Relocation to the City of Hartford
HEDCO is a certified development financial institution (CDFI)
HEDCO also administers the following loan funds:
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Merchants Revolving Loan Fund (MRLF) (Available in four neighborhoods of the City of
Hartford - Franklin Avenue, Park Street, Albany Avenue, Enterprise Zone)
Neighborhood Economic Development Fund (NEDF)
Nuisance Abatement Fund
Umbrella Revolving Loan Fund
West End Revolving Loan Fund
New Alliance Bank - Loan Fund (West End and Parkville)
SAMA Frog Hollow/Parkville Revolving Loan Fund
HEDCO's hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday.
Program Region: Hartford
Program Contact(s):
Samuel C. Hamilton, Executive Director
15 Lewis Street, Room 204
Hartford, CT 06103
Phone: (860) 527-1301
hedco@snet.net
hedco-ghbdc.com
Fernando G. Rosa, Deputy Director
15 Lewis Street, Room 204
Hartford, CT 06103
Phone: (860) 527-1301
Fax: (860) 727-9224
fernando.g.rosa@hedco-ct.com
Export Assistance - DECD
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Agency: Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD)
Program Description:
The Department of Economic and Community Development provides a variety of programs and
services to assist Connecticut companies explore overseas markets and international business
opportunities.
A brief listing of major programs and services available includes:
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DECD works with the U.S. Department of Commerce Middletown Export Assistance Center
to provide personalized and confidential advice to assess your company's export potential
and assist in developing and expanding your export program.
Export Seminars: DECD organizes and co-sponsors with other organizations introductory
and advanced international seminars around the state. These seminars provide businesses
with comprehensive information on exporting, as well as valuable contacts.
Trade Shows: DECD targets specific international trade shows and recruits company
participants from Connecticut. In addition, provides marketing assistance to each participant
and assists with the logistics of the exhibit.
Trade Missions: Tailor-made overseas trade missions designed to "match" Connecticut
participants with appropriate foreign business contacts are organized and conducted by the
staff. Participants receive in-country market briefings and customized appointments.
International Trade Data: The Department has access to a variety of data sources, including
detailed export statistics.
STEP Grant: The Department has federal grant funding available to assist eligible small
businesses with participation in regional and industry focused export opportunities and
international business development opportunities. DECD works with federal and in-state
partner organizations to identify and coordinate CT STEP - approved events with the goal of
showcasing the strengths of key Connecticut markets, and expanding the global footprint of
the state and its participating companies.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Beatriz Gutierrez
Office of International and Domestic Business
505 Hudson Street
Hartford, CT 06106
Phone: (860) 270-8068
Fax: (860) 270-8016
beatriz.gutierrez@ct.gov
www.decd.org
Go/No Go Assessment - CI
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Agency: Connecticut Innovations, Inc. (CI)
Program Description:
Is your technology idea worth pursuing? CI evaluates competitiveness, intellectual property and
marketability to let you know for sure.
For more information, click here.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Angela Caponetto, Administrative Assistant
865 Brook Street
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
Phone: (860) 257-2896
Fax: (860) 563-4877
angela.caponetto@ctinnovations.com
www.ctinnovations.com
Middletown Small Business Creation & Expansion
Grants
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Agency: Middletown, City of
Program Description:
Grants for up to $2,000 are available for Middletown small business startups (operating for less than
12 months) or existing small-businesses. For the purposes of this grant a small business is defined
as a firm that has 50 or fewer employees and/or annual receipts of less than $.5M.
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Up to $1,500 can be used for program eligible expenses, such as business license fees;
rent/lease payments; telephone/utility hook-up charges; and inventory purchases.
Small businesses operating for more than 12 months are eligible for a grant of up to $1,500
to assist in the costs of new hires.
For both start-up and expanding businesses, there is also an optional $500 “carrot” (grant) that is
offered as an incentive to participate in the Middletown Small Business Development Center.
Grants are awarded on a first-come first-serve basis until all $50,000 is expended. Funding for the
grant program is replenished annually.
For new businesses, eligibility will be determined based on low and moderate income requirements
of the owners of the business. For existing businesses, eligibility will be determined based on
making jobs available to low and moderate income residents.
Submit the one page application to determine
eligibility:http://www.middletownplanning.com/documents/smallbusapp.pdf
Initial application review: 1 to 2 weeks
Contract processing: 2 weeks
Grant period is 6 months to complete all grant conditions.
Program Region: Middletown
Program Contact(s):
Michiel Wackers, AICP
Planning, Conservation and Development
City of Middletown
245 DeKoven Drive, Room 202
Middletown, CT 06457
Phone: (860) 638-4843
Fax: (860) 638-1940
michiel.wackers@midletwonct.gov
www.middletownplanning.com/documents/CDBG_ED_Program.pdf
Office of the Ombudsman - DEEP
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Agency: Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
Program Description:
The office of the Ombudsman provides a central point of contact for all stakeholders seeking
information and assistance from the department including:
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Coordinating multimedia access
Maintaining an information hotline
Assisting applicants in understanding the environmental permitting process and
coordinating application processing for new and expanding businesses
Scheduling and coordinating multimedia pre-application meetings in an effort to fully explain
all permit application requirements
Working in partnership with the CT Department of Economic and Community Development
(DECD), other state agencies and municipalities in outreach efforts to new and expanding
businesses
Making referrals to and coordinating with other DEEP programs and non-DEEP service
providers to provide information on a variety of issues such as tax exemptions for pollution
control equipment and access to compliance and technical assistance
Providing outreach opportunities to promote compliance by better informing business and
industry of their regulatory obligations. Such outreach highlights compliance success stories
and innovative solutions to environmental problems
Promoting improved environmental performance guidance and recognition for the
environmental management systems
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Robert Kaliszewski, DEEP Ombudsman
79 Elm Street
Hartford, CT 06106-5127
Phone: (860) 424-3003
Fax: (860) 424-4153
www.ct.gov/dep
Robert Hannon
79 Elm Street
Hartford, CT 06106-5127
Phone: (860) 424-3003
Fax: (860) 424-4153
Beatriz Milne
79 Elm Street
Hartford, CT 06106-5127
Phone: (860) 424-3003
Fax: (860) 424-4153
SBA 504 Loan Program - CIC
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Agency: Community Investment Corporation (CIC)
Program Description:
Through the SBA 504 Loan Program, CTCIC partners with a traditional lender (usually a bank) will
put together a financing package of up to 90 percent of the cost to purchase owner occupied real
estate (with or without construction of improvements) and/or the cost to purchase and install
machinery and equipment. The 10 percent borrower equity requirements is a full 10-20 percent
lower than the equity required for a conventional loan.
Loan feature:
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Finances up to 40 percent of the total project. (Our lending partners finance up to 50
percent of the total project.)
Loan portion is fully amortized over an extended term (10 or 20 years) and has a below
market interest rate that is fixed for the entire term of the loan. No interest rate adjustments.
No balloons.
Capped at $5 Million ($5.5 Million for manufacturers) which means an SBA 504 loan can be
a useful financing tool to fund projects up to $13 Million and beyond.
The SBA 504 Program is an economic development program. To be eligible the small business
must create or retain jobs or meet alternative economic or community development goals set forth
by the SBA.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Gary Toole
2315 Whitney Avenue
Suite 2B
Hamden, CT 06518
Phone: (203) 776-6172 Ext. 124
Fax: (203) 776-6837
gtoole@ciclending.com
www.ciclending.com
Carolyn Welch
2315 Whitney Avenue
Suite 2B
Hamden, CT 06518
Phone: (203) 776-6172 Ext. 132
Fax: (203) 776-6837
cwelch@ciclending.com
Small Business and Compliance Assistance
Program - DEEP
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Agency: Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
Program Description:
Permitting assistance:
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Seminars/Workshops
Information and assistance on requirements
Assistance in determining applicable requirements
Referrals to technical persons within DEP
Help in locating sources of funding
Information on pollution prevention
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Small Business Assistance/Ombudsman Program
79 Elm Street, 3rd Floor
Hartford, CT 06106-5127
Phone: (860) 424-3003
Fax: (860) 424-4153
www.ct.gov/dep
Advice and Counsel on Business Issues - CSBF
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Agency: Connecticut Small Business Federation (CSBF)
Program Description:
Connecticut Small Business Federation is a nonprofit association of small businesses throughout
the state of Connecticut. Staff attorneys provide members with telephone counsel on legal
requirements including labor laws, sales and use tax, unemployment and a wide-range of everyday
problems of business operations. They also offer group health insurance, life, short term disability
and dental.
Membership is required. Dues are paid annually and are based on employment. Minimum dues are
$100.00
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Leon Lemaire, President
P.O. Box 1067
Farmington, CT 06034
Phone: (860) 677-2000
Cost-Shared Consulting Services - NETAAC
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Agency: New England Trade Adjustment Assistance Center, Inc. (NETAAC)
Program Description:
New England Trade Adjustment Assistance Center, Inc. (NETAAC), is a government funded nonprofit organization that offers cost-shared assistance for import-impacted manufacturers through a
grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce. NETAAC’s goal is to help New England
manufacturers increase profitability and retain employees while competing with imported products.
Companies that have experienced recent declines in sales and employment, due at least in
part to increasing imports of competitive products, are eligible for participation in the
program, in which the federal government pays a percentage of the cost of consulting
services designed to help the firm improve its competitive position. (The federal government
pays 75% of costs, if the firm requests $30,000 or less of assistance; 50% of costs for
amounts over $30,000.). There are eleven Trade Adjustment Assistance Centers serving
different regions of the country.
Program Region: New England
Program Contact(s):
71 Faulkner Street
North Billerica, MA 01862
Phone: (978) 663-9870
Fax: (978) 663-9820
taa@netaac.org
www.netaac.org
Defense Contract Management Agency - Summary
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Agency: Defense Contract Management Agency
Program Description:
Advice and counseling designed to help small businesses that are disadvantaged, women-owned,
located in historically underutilized zones (HUBZone) or owned and operated by Veterans or
service-disabled Veterans.
Vendor wishing to do business with the Department of Defense has to be registered in Central
Contractor Registration www.ccr2000.com
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Defense Contract Management East
495 Summer Street
Boston, MA 02210
Phone: (617) 753-4318
GE Global Learning Center (GEGLC) - UCONN
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Agency: University of Connecticut (UCONN)
Program Description:
Seminars on international business issues, such as culture, exporting, the state of regional markets,
etc.
All businesses interested in global issues are welcome to attend programs.
No direct funding for businesses is available.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Subhash C. Jain, Director
International Business Programs
CIBER/GEGLC
School of Business
2100 Hillside Road U-1041
Storrs, CT 06269
Phone: (860) 486-4134
Fax: (860) 486-5497
Kelly Aceto, Managing Director
International Business Programs
CIBER/GEGLC
School of Business
2100 Hillside Road, Unit 1041
Storrs, CT 06269
Phone: (860) 486-5458
Fax: (860) 486-5497
Michele Metcalf
International Business Programs
CIBER/GEGLC
School of Business
2100 Hillside Road, Unit 1041
Storrs, CT 06269
Information Resources - BRBC
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Agency: Bridgeport Regional Business Council (BRBC)
Program Description:
The Bridgeport Regional Business Council is a Regional Chamber of Commerce committed to
supporting the business community and is the forum through which the business community unifies
its resources to create opportunities for prosperity and success for the community at large. We offer
networking and marketing opportunities to help businesses grow and provide the following
information resources:
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Advertising opportunities
Counseling for economic development and project assistance
Expertise - membership publishing opportunities
Legislative directory
Membership directory
Membership benefits include visibility for member companies through our website and Membership
Directory, access to a variety of insurance products, business referrals, discounts on goods and
services from other members, invitation to all BRBC events, access to legislative and business
leaders and sponsorship and marketing opportunities. BRBC Membership entitles you to
membership in any of the affiliate chambers (Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce, Stratford Chamber
of Commerce, and Trumbull Chamber of Commerce) and the BRBC programs Leadership Greater
Bridgeport, Women's Leadership Council, and Bridgeport Economic Development Corporation.
Program Region: Bridgeport, Trumbull, Stratford
Program Contact(s):
Karen DelVecchio
10 Middle Street, 14th Floor
Bridgeport, CT 06604
Phone: (203) 335-3800
Fax: (203) 366-0105
delvecchio@brbc.org
www.brbc.org
Prime Contracting Assistance - SBA
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Agency: U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Program Description:
Through the Prime Contracts Program, the SBA helps to increase small business' share of
government prime contracts. SBA Procurement Center Representatives work to expand contracting
opportunities for small business. PCRs review contracting strategies and actions, review prime
contractors' subcontracting plans, recommend contracting sources, and provide one-to-one
counseling and training to small businesses seeking to do business with the federal government.
Visit the SNA's Office of Government Contracting home page at: www.sba.gov/gc for a listing of
PCR's, and buying installations nationwide.
Connecticut residents should contact Janette Fasano or Sean F. Crean.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Janette Fasano, Area Director
Office of Government Contracting
U.S. Small Business Administration
10 Causeway Street, Room 416
Boston, MA 02222-1093
Phone: (617) 565-5622
Fax: (617) 565-8186
janette.fasano@sba.gov
www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/gc/index.html
Ben Manzano
Office of Government Contracting
10 Causeway Street
Room 416
Boston, MA 02222
Phone: (617) 565-5587
ben.manzano@sba.gov
Services - National Association for the SelfEmployed (NASE)
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Agency: National Association For The Self-Employed (NASE)
Program Description:
Services Include:
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Health, disability, vision, dental, and life insurance
Free businesss consulting
Discounts on over 100 business products
Self-employed persons, or employees who work in small businesses are eligible to join.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Phone: (800) 232-6273
www.nase.com
Subcontracting Assistance Program - SBA
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Agency: U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Program Description:
The Subcontracting Assistance Program promotes maximum use of small businesses by the
nation's large prime contractors. The SBA's Commercial Market Representatives work with large
businesses to identify and expand subcontracting opportunities for small businesses. CMR's
conduct compliance reviews to ensure that large businesses comply with small business
subcontracting requirements. They also provide guidance to assist small businesses in identifying
subcontracting opportunities and marketing their products and services to these large contractors.
CMR's work with agencies to ensure subcontracting with small disadvantaged businesses through
inclusion of subcontracting evaluation factors and sub-factors.
Connecticut residents should contact the offices listed below.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Janette Fasano, Area Director
Office of Government Contracting
U.S. Small Business Administration
10 Causeway Street, Room 416
Boston, MA 02222-1093
Phone: (617) 565-8186
janette.fasano@sba.gov
www.sba.gov/services/contractingopportunities/basics/subcontracting/index.html
The Center for Not-for-Profit Organizations - John
F. Welch College of Business
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Agency: Sacred Heart University
Program Description:
The Center for Not-for-Profit Organizations provides free services to nonprofit organizations in
Fairfield and New Haven Counties. It is an organization within Sacred Heart University’s John F.
Welch College of Business whose mission is to provide students with opportunities to apply their
experience, knowledge and skills while serving the greater needs of the community. The Center's
mission also provides students with both service learning for academic credit and volunteer
opportunities.
The Center helps nonprofits meet their goals and objectives and determines assistance based on
need.
Projects are undertaken and completed within the framework of a trimester academic year. The
nonprofit organizations must apply for services either by mail or online. This service is provided free
of charge. Final reports are provided to the organizations.
The following pre-requisites must be met to qualify for assistance:
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The nonprofit must qualify as a 501 (c) 3 organization
It must be located in the greater Fairfield or New Haven Counties
Organizations must be willing to work with student teams and provide some level of support
to the project
To file an application please go to the Sacred Heart University Center for Strategic Planning for Notfor-Profit Organizations website at www.sacredheart.edu/NFP.cfm
Work could begin as early as the start of the next trimester following an interview and possible site
visit.
Program Region: Greater Fairfield and New Haven Counties
Program Contact(s):
Dr. Stephen M. Brown, Professor of Management
John F. Welch College of Business
Sacred Heart University
5151 Park Avenue
Fairfield, CT 06825-1000
Phone: (203) 365-7537
Fax: (203) 365-7538
browns@sacredheart.edu
www.sacredheart.edu/NFP.cfm
Trade Shows and Trade Missions - CWTA
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Agency: Connecticut World Trade Association (CWTA)
Program Description:
CWTA has a two-way outreach program designed to attract foreign business executives to
Connecticut and create opportunities for Connecticut companies abroad. The Association sponsors
inbound and outbound trade missions to facilitate two-way trade.
Trade shows and missions are open to all Connecticut businesses. CWTA members receive
discounts on trade shows and missions.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
James C. Nicholas, Executive Director
52 George E. Pipkin Way
Bridgeport, CT 06608
Phone: (203) 345-2066
Fax: (203) 846-9180
NickCWTA@aol.com
Community and Economic Development Clinic
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Agency: Yale University
Program Description:
Provides advice and legal/business counseling.
Applicants should show economic disadvantage (ie. lack of resources to use for profit legal and
business consulting services.) Available when school is in session, with limited availability in the
summer.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
P.O. Box 209090
New Haven, CT 06520-9090
Phone: (203) 432-2195
Fax: (203) 432-1426
www.law.yale.edu/academics/smallbusinesslegalservices.htm
Counseling and Loans for Non-Japanese
Companies for Expanding within the Japanese
Market
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Agency: Development Bank Of Japan, Inc.
Program Description:
Networking & counseling for businesses interested in exploring or expanding within the Japanese
market. The Development Bank Of Japan can provide contact names and introductions within a
wide array of business industries. All corporate inquiries are welcome, however assistance to
individuals is not available.
Financial advice and counseling, loans:
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Maximum loan amount- 50% of project cost
Maturity/grace period - average of 10-15 years
Grace period of up to 3 years is possible. Both are determined according to useful life and
cash flow of project
Interest rate - fixed at time of disbursement
Company Eligibility: Existing foreign companies who wish to establish a registered branch or
Japanese corporations whose capital is more than 1/3 Non-Japanese.
Project Eligibility: Capital investment conducted in Japan (purchase of land, equipment), research &
development costs in Japan (construction, personnel), acquisition of assets or equities of Japanese
companies.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
New York Representative Office
1251 Avenues Of The Americas
Suite 830
New York, NY 10020-1104
Phone: (212) 221-0708
Fax: (212) 221-6138
CT Farm-to-Chef Program - DoAg
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Agency: Department of Agriculture (DoAg)
Program Description:
Farm-to-Chef is a free program that helps connect local culinary professionals with producers and
distributors of CT Grown products. Informational newsletters, workshops, networking, promotions
and other opportunities are provided to members as part of the program.
The program also helps the public locate restaurants and other dining facilities that serve CT Grown
foods.
Eligible Applicants
Connecticut-based farmers, wholesalers, chefs, and other food service professionals are
encouraged to join.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Linda Piotrowicz, Agricultural Marketing Representative
Bureau of Agricultural Development & Resource Preservation
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106
Phone: (860) 713-2558
Fax: (860) 713-2516
linda.piotrowicz@ct.gov
www.ct.gov/doag/cwp/view.asp?a=2778&q=330830
Invest Japan - Helping Businesses Succeed in
Japan - JETRO
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Agency: Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
Program Description:
Business Support Structures:
Jetro has modern office space, meeting rooms, office equipment and support staff for up to eight
weeks inside JETRO Business Support Centers. Centers are staffed by on-site expert consultants
who offer business information and advice. All services are free except telephone, fax and other
usage charges. There are offices in Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Kobe.
Contact the JETRO office to inquire about available space. Additionally JETRO can provide
qualified companies with market reports, potential business partners, real estate agents, and
regional advisors.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
Mr. Taku Sato
McGraw-Hill Building, 42nd Floor
1221 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020-1079
Phone: (212) 997-0413
Fax: (212) 997-0464
SOM Outreach - Yale
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Agency: Yale University
Program Description:
This student group provides free consulting services to local businesses and nonprofit
organizations.
Available during the academic year to any local organization that needs consulting help to work on
business projects.
Projects should be meaningful to organization and provide learning opportunities for students.
Projects need to be completed over a 4-6 month time period. There is an application process.
Program Region: Statewide
Program Contact(s):
52 Hillhouse Avenue
New Haven, CT 06511
somoutreach@mail.som.yale.edu
students.som.yale.edu/sigs/outreach/default.htm