News and Events

Promotional image for the "Want to Win a Contract" online learning session.
January 27, 2026

Want to Win a Contract? Develop a Capacity Plan

No-cost Online February 19, 12 p.m. REGISTER Equip your business to compete — and win — at the CT Business Matchmaker. Contracting with government agencies and large corporate buyers requires more than certifications and a capability statement — it requires capacity. Join Steven Semaya, Associate State Director, Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC), for a […]

a picture of a crowd promoting the business lending expo
January 27, 2026

Business Lending Expo – Cromwell, CT

In-person No-cost March 26, 9 a.m. – noon Meet over 25 SBA lenders and explore financing options for your business needs. Small business owners can discuss working capital, short and long-term financing, fixed assets and more. Join SBA, CTSBDC, and a variety of lenders and community organizations at Courtyard by Marriott Hartford Cromwell (4 Sebethe […]

A promotional image with the details of the New Year, New Business Webinar
December 19, 2025

New Year, New Business: What You Need to Know About Starting a Business in 2026

Free – Online January 28, 12 p.m. Spots Limited SESSION IS FULL, ADD YOUR NAME TO THE WAITLIST REGISTER Is your New Year’s Resolution to finally start the small business you’ve been dreaming of? Join Connecticut Small Business Development Center Business Advisor Mary Kay Della Camera to learn more about what it takes to launch […]

Left to right: Lucelly Espinal, M&T Bank; Diana Merchan, Greenwich Country Day School; Nelson Merchan, CTSBDC; Andrea Torres Fodor, Newtown Savings Bank; Marifer Rodriguez, Zamfer Group
December 5, 2025

CTSBDC Advisor Nelson Merchan Honored as Innovator

East Hartford, CT — Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC) is proud to announce CTSBDC advisor Nelson Merchan was honored by Westfair Business Journal as one of its 2025 Hispanic Innovators Honorees. Westfair Business Journal honors individuals for their leadership, ingenuity, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to driving economic growth and positive change in Westchester and […]

A promotional image for webinar about protecting intellectual property
November 21, 2025

From Idea to Asset: Intellectual Property Strategies for Manufacturing Businesses

In the manufacturing world, innovation is your competitive edge—but only if you protect it. This online learning session will walk you through practical intellectual property (IP) strategies to safeguard your designs, processes, and brands so they become true business assets, not missed opportunities. Join us to learn about the differences between: Trade Secrets Provisional and […]

Dorian Zwierewicz sitting in a chair with a book.
November 14, 2025

Dorian Zwierewicz Named State Director of CTSBDC

East Hartford, CT — Dorian Zwierewicz has been named the State Director of the Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC), effective November 14, 2025. Zwierewicz recently served as the regional director of the Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, Florida – which received two awards of excellence in […]

Ai Statupes webinar promotional image
November 4, 2025

IA para Startups: Una Guía práctica

Registro Languaje: En español, con subtítulos en vivo en diversos idiomas Contacto: Pilar Illanes Cada vez más grandes empresas y pequeños negocios están aprovechando la IA generativa con excelentes resultados. Sin embargo, muchos emprendedores aún necesitan ese impulso inicial para comprender lo básico y comenzar a aplicarla en su propio negocio. Esta capacitación está pensada para […]

Promotional image for AI for Startups & practical roadmap
November 4, 2025

AI for Startups: A Practical Roadmap

Access the Recording More and more, large companies and small businesses are taking advantage of generative AI with excellent results. However, many entrepreneurs still need that initial push to learn the basics and start applying it in their own businesses. This training is designed for small business owners and new entrepreneurs who want to understand […]

Promotional image for Unlocking Business Credit webinar
November 3, 2025

Unlock Business Growth With Strong Credit

Your credit is more than a number. It’s your key to funding, opportunities, and financial stability. Whether you’re a startup or an established small business owner, understanding and improving your personal and business credit is essential for success. On November 19 at 6 p.m., join us for a free, online, interactive 60-minute session, with Stephen […]

CTSBDC group photo at CEDAS Award Ceremony
November 3, 2025

CEDAS Honors Outgoing CTSBDC State Director with Kenneth L. Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award

East Hartford, CT – After 12 years with Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC), including seven as State Director, Joe Ercolano is retiring, effective November 5, 2025. In addition to well wishes from colleagues at CTSBDC and UConn School of Business, Ercolano was honored by the Connecticut Economic Development Association (CEDAS) with the Kenneth L. […]