Small Business Grants in Connecticut (CT)

Securing a small business grant in Connecticut involves identifying the right opportunities, understanding the eligibility criteria, and preparing a compelling application. Here are some of the specific opportunities available in Connecticut:

State Agencies and Innovator Programs
Connecticut’s state agencies and innovator programs offer various funding options for small businesses. These include loans, grants, and other assistance programs aimed at helping businesses diversify, expand into new markets, or grow customer loyalty

Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Grants
DEEP administers several grant programs. For instance, the Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program supports the establishment of beverage container redemption centers, with preference given to locally-owned, minority-owned, and/or women-owned businesses. The Urban Forestry Equity Grant Program, funded through the Inflation Reduction Act, supports urban forestry projects

Small Business Assistance Programs
Connecticut offers grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 for business operating expenses, technical assistance, and business coaching. To be eligible, businesses must be registered and operating in Connecticut as a for-profit entity and in good standing with the Department of Revenue Services

Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) Programs
The WBDC offers several grant programs, including the Equity Match Grant Program, Child Care Business Opportunity Fund, and Launch Pad Grant Program. These programs are designed to support women-owned businesses and entrepreneurs

Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund
This fund provides low-interest loans of up to $500,000 to Connecticut businesses with 100 or fewer employees. It targets businesses located in economically disadvantaged areas, as well as businesses owned by veterans, women, and people of color

HEDCO and Spanish American Merchants Association (SAMA) Grants
HEDCO and SAMA have partnered with the State of Connecticut and the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) to provide grants of up to $30,000. This program connects small business applicants to an ecosystem of providers, including lawyers, accountants, human resources, insurance agencies, and marketing firms

To secure a grant, you need to understand the specific eligibility criteria and application process for each grant program. This typically involves demonstrating your business’s potential for growth and success, its financial need, and its alignment with the grant program’s objectives. It’s also important to prepare a compelling application that clearly articulates your business plan, financial projections, and how the grant funds will be used to achieve your business goals.