Celebrating CTSBDC's Success Stories

Explore CTSBDC's impact on the small business economy. From Main Street to manufacturing, these are the stories of some of the small businesses our advisors help to start, grow, and thrive.

 

Ralph Caprilozzi from Shelter Rock Winemaking posing with his CTSBDC advisor Shay Nagarsheth in front of wine barrels and holding wine bottles.

Shelter Rock Winemaking: Building on Tradition

Buying an existing business has many benefits, but it also comes with its own set of bureaucratic challenges. Ralph Caprilozzi found this out first-hand when trying to buy the business he helped build. Caprilozzi grew up making wine with his grandfather and started working at Shelter Rock Winery when he was 19. The “winery” is […]

Ralph Caprilozzi

Ralph Caprilozzi from Shelter Rock Winemaking posing with his CTSBDC advisor Shay Nagarsheth in front of wine barrels and holding wine bottles.

Shelter Rock Winemaking: Building on Tradition

Buying an existing business has many benefits, but it also comes with its own set of bureaucratic challenges. Ralph Caprilozzi found this out first-hand when trying to buy the business he helped build. Caprilozzi grew up making wine with his grandfather and started working at Shelter Rock Winery when he was 19. The “winery” is […]

Ralph Caprilozzi

Michael Gerrity, co-founder of Urban Lodge Brewing, in front of the Pratt Street Location

Urban Lodge: Brewing Growth, One Location at a Time

At a time when many craft breweries are closing their doors, Urban Lodge Brewing Company is booming. So, what’s their secret? Smart growth. While their delicious beer and community-oriented business strategy are key to the recipe for success, so is expert guidance from Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC) Advisor Shelly Koehler.  Co-owners—and brothers-in-law—Michael Gerrity […]

Michael Gerrity

Michael Gerrity, co-founder of Urban Lodge Brewing, in front of the Pratt Street Location

Urban Lodge: Brewing Growth, One Location at a Time

At a time when many craft breweries are closing their doors, Urban Lodge Brewing Company is booming. So, what’s their secret? Smart growth. While their delicious beer and community-oriented business strategy are key to the recipe for success, so is expert guidance from Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC) Advisor Shelly Koehler.  Co-owners—and brothers-in-law—Michael Gerrity […]

Michael Gerrity

The owners of Haven Coin & Jewelry next to their sign

Haven Coin & Jewelry: From Graduation to Gold Buying

What started as a pandemic-era interest for Matt Pavia and his business partner has turned into a booming business. Stuck at home during lockdown, they both started exploring the world of collectible coins—from YouTube to trade shows—and buying and selling precious metals. While they certainly are not the first team to turn a new hobby […]

Matt Pavia

The owners of Haven Coin & Jewelry next to their sign

Haven Coin & Jewelry: From Graduation to Gold Buying

What started as a pandemic-era interest for Matt Pavia and his business partner has turned into a booming business. Stuck at home during lockdown, they both started exploring the world of collectible coins—from YouTube to trade shows—and buying and selling precious metals. While they certainly are not the first team to turn a new hobby […]

Matt Pavia