Women-Owned Businesses

Overview

Over the last two decades, Connecticut’s women-owned businesses have grown by 56%. Together, they now contribute more than $16 billion each year to the state’s gross state product.

Connecticut is proud of its many dynamic women business owners who are leading innovation across all of Connecticut’s diverse industry sectors. Along with our public and private partners, we are committed to continuing to provide the resources and support these talented women need to launch and build successful businesses.

Business Support

We’ve highlighted a few types of support that may be particularly helpful for women-owned businesses. But please explore the rest of our site to learn more about the array of tax incentives, funding opportunities and technical resources we offer for all types of businesses.

TOOLS AND RESOURCES

  • Women's Business Development Council (WBDC).  This non-profit organization is dedicated to providing the tools and resources, entrepreneurial training and financial education to help women thrive in business.
  • Entrepreneurial Center & Women's Business Center. This provides personalized business advising, educational programs, technical assistance, and networking events to new and expanding small businesses in Connecticut.

WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS CERTIFICATION

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

  • Small Business Express Program. If you’ve been in business for at least a year and employ fewer than 100 people, we encourage you to explore the funding opportunities offered through the state’s Small Business Express program.
  • Minority Business Initiative. This public-private program is specifically designed to help minority-owned businesses access the funding, technical assistance and public contracting resources they need to build and grow a successful business.

Success Stories

Hear from a dynamic woman who is leading a growing Connecticut business.

 

Picture That Founding Owner Valerie Cooper on starting her company in Stamford.