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 Fairfield Counties.
“I’m honored to receive the Hispanic Innovator Award from Fairfield County Business Journal,” says Merchan. “My journey with CTSBDC has been pivotal in helping me work closely with our community to create wealth and expand opportunities through entrepreneurship. This recognition motivates me to continue making a difference.” Not only did Merchan win an award, but he nominated several other winners.
Prior to joining CTSBDC, Merchan was a successful business owner and served as a SCORE counselor and later Chairman of the Western Connecticut SCORE Chapter. He brings professional market research experience and currently serves on the Board of Directors for Housatonic Habitat for Humanity as well as the Foundation Board at Western Connecticut State University. Merchan earned his MBA from Georgia State University and his BBA from Universidad del Rosario in Bogotá, Colombia.
“We are so happy to see Nelson being honored for all that he does to service the community in Connecticut and beyond,” says CTSBDC’s State Director, Dorian Zwierewicz. “He is such an important part of our team and has helped countless businesses start, grow, and thrive. Nelson truly deserves these accolades and more.”
Westfair Business Journals says,” This year’s honorees represent a diverse array of industries and accomplishments, yet they all share a profound commitment to creating opportunities, empowering others, and making a lasting impact on the Hispanic business community and beyond.”
Congratulations to Merchan and to all the 2025 Hispanic Innovators for their achievements. (Pictured 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.)