CommerceConnect business assistance initiative in Connecticut one of 16 to launch this year Following the launch of its Michigan office last September, the U.S. Commerce Department’s CommerceConnect is expanding into Middletown, Conn., one of16 regions where the service is being launched this year.
Announced in 2009, CommerceConnect is a one-stop-shop initiative in which Commerce Department employees are cross-trained so that they have the ability to connect firms to the full menu of Commerce programs and can link business owners with other federal, state, local and nonprofit resources. The effort is designed to cut through red tape and simplify access to services and resources that can help companies grow, create jobs and become more efficient.
Newly cross-trained Commerce staff working in existing local department offices are beginning to assist Connecticut area businesses – no matter where they are in their life cycle, whether just getting off the ground or looking to expand into overseas markets – in collaboration with state and local partners.
“Streamlining the programs and initiatives available to help business owners access the information they need to establish, expand and grow their business just makes sense,” said Gov. Dannel Malloy. “It’s the same reason I proposed housing many of the state’s economic development functions together, as well. I’m pleased that the U.S. Commerce Department has chosen Middletown as one of its new CommerceConnect sites, and I urge Connecticut business owners and entrepreneurs to access the services available to them.” “Middletown welcomes CommerceConnect to the city,” said Mayor Sebastian N. Giuliano. “The program will give our business community easy access to a host of government resources designed to accelerate business growth and productivity.” The CommerceConnect network has expanded since its initial pilot to include not only a Michigan field office, but also a Gulf Coast initiative and growing contingent of cross-trained specialists in Commerce Department field offices in 16 additional regions across the country, as well as a national call center and web portal. Today, CommerceConnect also announced business assistance in Charlotte, N.C., and Birmingham, Ala.
Businesses in the Connecticut area interested in working with CommerceConnect specialists can contact the CommerceConnect Call Center at 1-888-728-4190 or visit www.CommerceConnect.gov.
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
