Supplier diversity community resources
Supplier diversity programs

Resources for Developing and Growing Your Business

Small business resource organizations and supplier diversity programs offer valuable opportunities for your business to grow, diversify its operations, and gain a competitive edge.

These resources can help you access funding, improve your business strategies, and expand your market reach. Below, we’ve compiled a list of local resources that may be beneficial for your small business.


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Community Resources

Resource Organizations for Small Businesses

Small business resource organizations provide a wealth of free advising services to help your company thrive and grow. These organizations offer expertise in managing finances, securing funding, identifying target markets, and navigating the complexities of starting and scaling a business. They can also help you apply for Connecticut's Small/Minority Business Enterprise certificate.

  • CT APEX Accelerator provides marketing and procurement assistance to businesses interested in selling their goods or services to federal, state, or local governments.
  • Connecticut Small Business Development Center (SBDC) helps businesses launch and grow through free training courses and 1-on-1 advising. They are committed to providing economic equity to underserved businesses in order to help them access the resources and funding they need to maintain a successful business.
  • HEDCO, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that provides financial products and services, along with training and technical assistance. Products include term loans, lines of credit, and grants for small businesses to build capacity, empowering them to grow, achieve sustainability, and drive community revitalization.
  • Minority Construction Council (MCC) advocates, supports, and creates development opportunities for minority contractors.Serves construction companies only. Call 860-882-0675.
  • Women's Business Development Council (WBDC) supports economic prosperity for women and strengthens communities through entrepreneurial and financial education services that create and grow sustainable jobs and businesses.

Supplier Diversity Programs

Many states, municipalities, and organizations offer supplier diversity programs with varying eligibility requirements and application processes. We have provided links to a few of the programs that may interest you below. Please note, these are provided for informational purposes only and are not required to participate in the State of Connecticut supplier diversity program.