CTSBDC advisors help entrepreneurs turn ideas into viable businesses and build a strong foundation for success. Advisors can provide guidance on business registration and compliance, developing and refining a sustainable business model, and using innovation and technology to bring new products, services, and processes to market.

CTSBDC advisors help small businesses understand their financial position and make informed decisions about funding and growth. Advisors can provide guidance on accessing capital through debt and equity, analyzing financial performance, and managing cash flow to support long-term stability and success.

CTSBDC advisors help small businesses better understand their customers, strengthen their brand, and reach the right audiences. From market research and competitive analysis to marketing and sales strategies, advisors can help you make informed decisions and identify opportunities for growth. They can also provide guidance on digital marketing, including websites, social media, email, and other online tools.

Powering Connecticut’s manufacturing future — together.

CTSBDC offers specialized advising services to help manufacturers grow, compete, and lead in a rapidly evolving landscape. Our focus areas include:

Financing for Growth – Guidance on funding equipment upgrades, expansion, and modernization.

New Product Development – Support for hypothesis testing and early-stage innovation.

Market Research – Help identify customers, map competitors, and scout suppliers.

Operational Upgrades – Identify areas of your business that need improvement to stay competitive and meet reshoring demands.

As global supply chains shift, CTSBDC is helping small manufacturers bring operations back to the U.S. through:

Onshoring Assessments – Assist with analyses to evaluate onshoring feasibility and ROI.

Supplier Networks and Partners – Explore how Connecticut manufacturers can find national suppliers and government resources.

Explore the SBA’s onshoring portal.

Expanding your business internationally may allow you to increase sales and achieve long term stability.

CTSBDC’s team of experts can help:

• Understand the basics of International Trade
• Determine the exportability of your products or services
• Identify appropriate markets and buyers
• Develop market entry strategies
• Establish shipping and distribution networks
• Determine appropriate payment methods and identify export financing and insurance needs
• Prepare an Export Marketing Plan

CTSBDC’s international trade team will work with you to identify the most appropriate financial structure for your company’s exports.  There are many programs and mechanisms available through private capital sources as well as U.S. government trade agencies designed for small business exporters.

Are you planning to pursue an SBIR/STTR grant this year? Don’t undertake this highly competitive process alone. CTSBDC has provided free and confidential advice on SBIR and STTR grants to 110+ Connecticut business owners and entrepreneurs, resulting in multiple grant awards for a wide range of innovative companies.

CTSBDC advisors will:

• Help you determine if your business concept is a good fit for SBIR or STTR grants
• Walk you through the grant program and process
• Review your business concept and model
• Discuss your prospects for commercialization
• Provide a review of your SBIR application, as you proceed

The Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund is a resource that will move your business forward.

Supported by the CT Department of Economic & Community Development, Boost Fund was created to provide access to working capital for those who need it most, supporting a greater economic recovery for Connecticut.

Many small businesses and nonprofits in Connecticut experience barriers to accessing financial resources. This is especially true for organizations in distressed municipalities and those led by women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people of color.

Once you’ve reviewed the information, be sure to visit CTSMALLBUSINESSBOOSTFUND.ORG to pre-apply.