Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development

The rules have changed and we all have a stake in the outcome. At?Talent MADE?on April 9, don’t miss a powerful fireside chat between?Daniel O'Keefe, Connecticut’s Chief Innovation Officer and DECD Commissioner, and Mariana Monteiro, the state’s Chief Equity and Opportunity Officer and former defense sector leader. They’ll tackle how businesses and governments can navigate?federal shifts impacting DEI and economic growth, not to mention how Connecticut is positioning itself to stay competitive and opportunity-focused in this new era. This conversation is for?business leaders, nonprofits, municipalities, and anyone facing questions about funding, compliance, and the future of equitable growth. Join us. Listen in. Be part of what's being MADE. ?? April 9 | 12 PM | Rentschler Field ?? Register at?https://lnkd.in/eqcb_2wh

?? Some people see a small business. Sheila Hummel sees?big dreams. Our incredible Director of Small Business, Sheila Hummel, was honored with the?Empowerment Advocate Award?at HEDCO Inc’s 50th Anniversary Gala — and we couldn't be more proud! Sheila has a superpower: she believes in people. She champions Connecticut’s entrepreneurs with heart, hustle, and a vision for what’s possible — launching innovative programs, unlocking opportunities, and helping dreams take root (and grow!). Congrats, Sheila. You lift others up every day — and now it’s your turn to shine. #MakeItHere #Connecticut #SmallBusiness

???You can’t fly without Connecticut—and here’s more proof. A major player in the commercial and military aircraft business is expanding right here in the Nutmeg State. That means more jobs, more innovation, and an even stronger aerospace ecosystem rooted in Connecticut’s legacy of engineering excellence. From designing critical flight systems to producing components used around the world, companies in Connecticut keep the skies safe and soaring. This latest expansion? It reinforces what we’ve been saying all along: if it flies, a significant part of it came from Connecticut. ?? Learn more about this news.

If you are a Connecticut manufacturer, processor or supplier interested in doing business with NASA and their primes, register today for the April 3rd event - space is limited!

Looking forward to speaking at this event (not once, but twice, given you can't possibly be sick of me yet). Hope you can join!

??What if Connecticut’s empty office buildings and malls became your next favorite place to live, shop, or grab coffee? Governor Ned Lamont has proposed a?$50 million fund?to help communities across the state?reimagine and revitalize vacant commercial properties?— turning empty spaces into vibrant hubs of housing, business, and activity. This proposal isn’t just about bricks and mortar — it’s about building a stronger Connecticut. One where?opportunity meets quality of life. Where you can?grow your business,?advance your career, and still make it home in time for dinner (or a brilliant sunset). We’re already the state that has it all — now we’re making even better use of what we’ve got. ?? Learn more about the plan below.

Did you know 97% of restaurants in Connecticut are independently owned? That’s the?highest percentage?of mom-and-pop eateries in the entire country. From cozy diners and legendary pizza joints to bold fusion spots and farm-to-table gems, our food scene isn’t built by big chains—it’s handcrafted by makers, innovators, and entrepreneurs. It’s no wonder Connecticut has earned a new title:?The Foodie Capital of New England. So next time you’re dining out, remember—you’re not just grabbing a bite. You’re supporting someone’s dream, someone’s family, and a whole lot of local flavor. #Connecticut #MakeItHere #Hospitality #Restaurants | Connecticut Restaurant Association | Scott Dolch | Yvette M. Tavares, MBA

While others are rushing to regulate technologies that are still evolving like AI, Connecticut is focused on unlocking its potential to strengthen our most strategic industries—from advanced manufacturing and life sciences to energy and defense. Here’s how: ? $100 million Innovation Clusters program—supporting finalists applying AI in game-changing ways ? $50 million fund at Connecticut Innovations—backing the next generation of AI and quantum leaders Smart policy should clear the runway, not clutter it. We believe in building a framework that fosters innovation?andprotects the public interest—without slowing down the people doing the hard work of building the future. AI is here. Let’s lead with purpose. #AI #Connecticut #MakeItHere

Are you surprised 2 CI companies would be named in top 35 in the world by Fast Company? The world is catching up now to the rapid evolution happening in Connecticut’s economy, Schumpeterian “creative destruction” at work here by our gritty and nimble founders. Fun stuff.