The CTSBDC provides no-cost advising services to both prospective and existing business owners to help them start or expand their business. CTSBDC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, and the University of Connecticut. The SBDC program remains one of the nation’s largest small business assistance programs in the federal government with a proven track record of providing almost 35 years of service to small businesses. Contact CTSBDC today for a no-cost, confidential business analysis.
“Our local CTSBDC contact, Nelson Merchan, is an energetic, thoughtful and well-informed resource for our business. He is always enthusiastic, with a constant supply of information that seems to show up at just the right time. Nelson knows what it takes to start a successful business, and is there every step of the way.”
Jim Barber
Luke’s Toy Factory, Danbury, CT
“Nelson is a mind expander. He opens up a lot of possibilities for my business because of his experience with a variety of companies. He can apply those success stories to my business. Nelson has a wide number of contacts and he knows state and other resources available for my business.“
Martha Yaney
Vista Group International, Inc, Norwalk, CT
“I have worked both professionally and personally with Nelson for the past decade. Initially as the executive director of a Main Street non-profit and now as a small business owner and community entrepreneur. Nelson’s knowledge and love of the Greater Danbury community is apparent in all he does. As a volunteer, a networking resource and a business advocate, he is always there with an idea, a connection, information or words of encouragement and support. His work is primary in the Chamber’s successful outreach to small business owners.”
Andrea Gartner
Owner, Pour Me Coffee & Wine Café, Danbury, CT
“The SBDC and Nelson Merchan have been an integral factor in the success of our company, Noteworthy Chocolates. Receiving great quality advice, even before we launched, allowed us to create an intelligent and comprehensive business plan that works. As we are growing and adapting the SBDC is right there with us helping with wonderful advice, opportunities, and information. We think the SBDC rocks!”
Michael Sauvageau
CEO, Chocolate Excellence Officer, Noteworthy Chocolates, Bethel, CT