Community Economic Development Fund

Sometimes the difference between staying stuck and moving forward is having access to the right resources at the right time.

Working capital can help businesses:
• Purchase inventory
• Hire staff
• Upgrade equipment
• Expand operations
• Manage seasonal cash flow

If access to capital is standing between you and your next business goal, CEDF may be able to help.
Learn more: CEDF.com

CEDF is proud to announce the closing of a $30,000 small business loan with Nicholas Imbriglio of passionatelypasta LLC! 🍝✨
https://passionatelypasta.com/

Passionately Pasta is more than a pasta company — it’s a story of passion, perseverance, craftsmanship, and community. Built on the belief that quality always comes first, Nicholas creates handcrafted pasta using locally sourced ingredients from farms and fellow small businesses, with every dough, filling, and shape made entirely in-house.

From years spent working through the culinary industry to discovering a true calling through handmade pasta, Nicholas has turned dedication and creativity into a growing local business that brings people together through food.

We’re excited to support Passionately Pasta’s next chapter and look forward to working together toward continued growth and success. Supporting passionate entrepreneurs like Nicholas is what community lending is all about.
Congratulations, Nicholas and the Passionately Pasta team! 👏

A commercial lease is more than just a monthly expense — it can directly impact your business’s cash flow, flexibility, and even loan eligibility.

Before you sign, make sure you understand the true costs, key negotiation points, and why legal guidance matters. Our latest article breaks down what every small business owner should know about commercial leasing.

Leasing commercial space: what you need to know - We Teach Success With the right preparation and professional guidance, you can secure a lease that not only meets your current needs but also gives your business the flexibility to thrive in the future.

Your small business already has a powerful marketing advantage — authenticity.
Join CEDF and Sarah Blecher, Founder of Blecher Digital, for a free live webinar on how to use AI tools to create more consistent, engaging social media content while staying true to your unique brand voice.

🔗 Register here: https://www.cedf.com/training/2026/07/09/use-ai-to-strengthen-your-small-business-marketing-voice/

Fraud prevention is about being prepared.

Join CEDF and Michael Lye, Vice President & Business Banker at TD Bank, for a free live webinar designed to help small business owners protect their finances, operations, and reputation from today’s most common fraud threats.

Register: https://www.cedf.com/training/2026/06/25/keep-your-business-safe-from-fraud/

CEDF’s Gear Up for Growth is a free, hands-on workshop series designed for early-stage entrepreneurs ready to strengthen operations, boost sales, and improve financial performance.

Over three interactive nights, you’ll gain practical tools to help grow your business with confidence.

📍 East Hartford
📅 June 8, 15 & 22
⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

✅ Free, but registration is required.
🔗 Register here: https://www.cedf.com/training/2026/04/01/gear-up-for-growth/

Not every business starts the year exactly as planned.

The good news? There are still six months left to make meaningful progress.

Whether you're launching something new, preparing for growth, or navigating challenges, now is a great time to revisit your goals and take the next step forward.

Momentum isn't about where you started. It's about what you do next.

Have a great business idea but aren’t sure how to turn it into a clear, compelling business plan?

Join Fred Welk, CEDF’s Director of Business Development, for a practical seminar covering the full business planning process — from crafting your value proposition to building financial forecasts and presenting your strategy with confidence.

Whether you’re starting a new venture or refining a plan for business expansion, you’ll learn how to organize your ideas into a professional, actionable roadmap.

📍 Better Business Bureau Offices
29 Berlin Rd, Cromwell, CT 06416
📅 Monday, June 8, 2026
⏰ 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM

Plus, see a live demonstration of LivePlan and explore the latest AI-powered tools designed to help entrepreneurs move from concept to confident presentation.

✅ Free to attend, but registration is required.
🔗 Sign up here: https://www.cognitoforms.com/bbbforms/sparkeventregistrationform

Congratulations to Webster Bank's Small Business Contest Award Winners! 🎉

CEDF was honored to attend their inaugural Small Business Contest Awards Reception, celebrating the entrepreneurs and small business owners who are strengthening our communities through innovation, determination, and leadership.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s winners, with special recognition to Sheena Salvador and Aaron Gist of Veegmyeats for their outstanding achievement. Your dedication and entrepreneurial spirit are inspiring examples of what small businesses can accomplish.

We were also proud to see CEDF Board Member Lynnette Espinosa of Webster Bank at the event, supporting local businesses and fostering connections that help our communities thrive.

Thank you to Webster Bank for hosting such a meaningful celebration of small business success. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of these remarkable entrepreneurs.