Middlesex Chamber Press Releases
2024 Middletown Summer Youth Employment Program Applications Now Available Through Middlesex County Chamber Of Commerce
(Middletown, CT.) Sean Hayes, Chairman of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce has announced that applications for the 2024 Middletown Summer Youth Employment Program are available online at https://www.middlesexchamber.com/youth-programs/ and at the Middlesex Chamber office. Applications should be submitted no later than May 31, 2024 by 4:30 p.m. to the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce office, 393 Main Street, Middletown.
Every year since 2006, the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce has placed Middletown students into constructive summer employment through the Middletown Summer Youth Employment Program. The chamber has the capacity, through our dynamic membership, to place these youth into employment in a wide variety of professional fields for six weeks in the summer months working up to 20 hours per week. Our host sites come from the public sector, the non-profit sector, and most notably the private sector.
“This program teaches our young people not only the fundamentals of employment, such as getting to work on time and ready to contribute, but also the pride that comes with putting in a solid work week and receiving a paycheck that was earned through hard and honest work. We are excited to begin this program again this year,” said President of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, Johanna Bond.
Applications will also be available at local High Schools in Middletown, Portland and Cromwell. (Middletown, Cromwell, and Portland residents are eligible for this program)
The program is designed to provide opportunities for economically challenged youth in the community between the ages of 14 to 24, but all interested age eligible youth are encouraged to apply for consideration.
For more information or to access application online, please check out www.middlesexchamber.com/youth-programs/ or call the Middlesex Chamber at (860) 347-6924.
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.
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SIDE STREET TO MAIN STREET BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Fall 2023/Winter 2024
Class XXIII Graduation
On Tuesday, March 19 the Chamber held the 23rd Graduation Awards Ceremony of the Award-Winning Side Street to Main Street Business and Leadership Development Program, a one year long entrepreneurial and business development course, with a rigorous curriculum, designed to assist minority small business owners in the community, who have not had formal business training, to become more successful by developing the attitudes, skills and qualities necessary for effective business ownership and success, taking them from the Side Street to the Main Street of the business community.
In attendance at the Graduation Ceremony to present the Graduates with their achievement certificates were City of Middletown Mayor Ben Florsheim and Faith Jackson, Director, Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Management & Veterans Service Contact Representative; Sean Hayes, Chairman, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce & CEO Powder Ridge Mountain Park Resort, Johanna Bond, President, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, Pamela Steele, Chairwoman, Central Business Bureau, Owner of Pamela Roose Specialty Hand Knits and Graduate of the Side Street to Main Street Program.
The program was made available through a 3-year City of Middletown ARPA grant award.
The next Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program is scheduled to begin in Fall of 2024. All interested applicants must complete and submit an online application, and attend the
Mandatory Program Orientation meeting at the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce.
For more detailed information on the Side Street to Main Street Programs, please contact Program Coordinator Jennifer Email: jennifer@middlesexchamber.com
Middlesex County Chamber Of Commerce to Host Comedy Night and Auction to Benefit Recovery Employment Program
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the Middlesex Chamber Real Estate Program will once again host a Comedy Night and Auction on Saturday, April 20, 2024, to benefit the chamber’s Recovery Employment Program.
This event, presented by Comedy, Craft Beer and Wine and More, and sponsored by ServPro of Middletown/ New Britain, State Farm Caleb Carney, and Middlesex Habitat for Humanity, will take place from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. at the Middletown Elks Crystal Ballroom, 44 Maynard Street, Middletown, CT, 06457 and will feature comedian Marty Caproni and guests.
Join us for a night full of laughs, fun, and amazing auction items. This is a "BYOF" event which means...Bring your own Food. The Bar will be open and available for drink purchases.
Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “We look forward to once again hosting this fun event to benefit the chamber’s Recovery Employment Program. I would like to thank our Real Estate Council co-chairs Juliet Cavanaugh and Nancy Currlin, along with the entire Real Estate Council for all of their work in planning this event. I would like to give a special shoutout to the Middletown Elks Crystal Ball Room for hosting us, Comedy Craft Beer and Wine and More for presenting this great event, Comedian Marty Caproni for joining us, and ServPro of Middletown/ New Britain, State Farm Caleb Carney, and Middlesex Habitat for Humanity for sponsoring this important event.”
The cost is $25 per person or $200 for a table of 10.
Advance registration is required, please register online: https://www.middlesexchamber.com/67528-2/
About the Recovery Employment Program – The Middlesex Chamber’s Recovery Employment Program (REP) helps those in recovery rebuild lives that have been torn and ripped apart due to addiction. Program participants will: build confidence in their abilities and skills, receive job coaching and counseling, and have the ability to gain employment with a company that will support them every step of the way.
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.
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2024 Business Operating Grants Applications Now Open
Middlesex County Businesses Encouraged to Apply Before Deadline
MIDDLETOWN, Conn. — The application period for the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission’s (MCRC) 2024 Business Operating Grants Program is open through March 31, 2024. The program, funded through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, offers grants of up to $25,000 to qualified small businesses in Middlesex County Connecticut.
The grants are designed to provide financial and technical assistance to business owners so that they continue business operations and maintain - and grow - employment opportunities for Middlesex County residents. The grant funding may be used for equipment and/or technology, leasehold improvements, and other fixed costs, including costs associated with supply chain disruption, increased employee travel time/mileage expenses, increased vendor costs, new/additional marketing expenses, and costs associated with bringing on new employees – either full or part time.
Businesses that apply must be based in, and have operated in, a Middlesex County town for at least 24 months, have no more than 50 employees, and be in good standing with all municipal, state, and federal authorities. A full list of eligibility and application requirements can be found on the Commission’s website at https://mxcrc.org.
All applicants are encouraged to attend a live or recorded information session for a better understanding on eligibility and application requirements. To register, visit https://mxcrc.org.
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About the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission
The Middlesex County Revitalization Commission was created by a special act of the CT General Assembly in 1993, with a mission to encourage and stimulate economic development in Middlesex County by providing low interest loans and/or matching grants to small and mid-sized businesses in the region. The members of the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission (MCRC) are the chief elected official, or a designee, from each of the fifteen towns in Middlesex County, plus a representative from the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce. Visit https://mxcrc.org for more information.
Middlesex County Job Fair - Connecticut job seekers won’t want to miss this special recruitment fair!
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce will host a Job Fair on Thursday, April 4, 2024.
The Middlesex County Job Fair will be held at the Courtyard by Marriot Hartford Cromwell from 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. There is no cost for job seekers to attend this event. Career Development Specialists will be available for resume critiquing during the fair.
The event is sponsored by the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, the Connecticut Department of Labor, and Workforce Alliance.
Middlesex Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “I would like to encourage everyone in Middlesex County to join us for our results-oriented Job Fair, which will feature over 45 companies. Now more than ever employers need workers and workers need employment. I would like to thank the Connecticut Department of Labor and Workforce Alliance for their support of this event, and would also like to thank the Courtyard by Marriot Hartford Cromwell for hosting our special event that will lead to many terrific opportunities.”
For an updated listing of attending companies, please visit: www.middlesexchamber.com/careerfair/
About the Middlesex Chamber - Established in 1895, the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is the largest Chamber in the state. Located in Middletown, CT, this dynamic business organization boasts over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. The Chamber strives to be the voice of business in Middlesex County and the surrounding area with nine geographically based divisions that meet on a monthly basis as well as industry-based committees and councils throughout Middlesex County that work hard to provide a valuable service to their members. In addition to being an effective and dynamic business organization, the chamber strives to be a community organization. Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce runs a number of events and programs that support veterans, youth development, and substance abuse prevention. For more information visit www.MiddlesexChamber.com
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Applications Now Being Accepted for the Bridge Bucks Program
Retail, Retail Services, and Restaurants in East Haddam and Haddam Encouraged to Apply
MIDDLETOWN, Conn. — Applications are now being accepted for the first year of the Bridge Bucks Program – a new two-year funding program for retail, retail services, and restaurants in Haddam and East Haddam.
Funded by the CT Department of Economic and Community Development and managed by The Middlesex County Revitalization Commission (MCRC), the Bridge Bucks Program was created to be a fun way to incentivize customers to re-visit businesses affected by the Swing Bridge closures and rotary construction on Route 154.
$10 Bridge Bucks coupons will be distributed to eligible businesses to share with customers, encouraging them to shop, despite the traffic delays, and redeem the Bridge Bucks on their next visit. The program is designed to boost sales for the businesses that are experiencing lost revenue due to the construction-related disruptions.
MCRC encourages retail, retail services, and restaurants in Haddam and East Haddam, Connecticut to build the Bridge Bucks into a fun and innovative marketing campaign and apply to participate. Applications for the 2024 Bridge Bucks are now open and are being accepted until the 2024 funding is distributed.
All applicants are encouraged to attend a live or recorded information session for a better understanding on eligibility and application requirements. To register, visit https://mxcrc.org.
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About the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission
The Middlesex County Revitalization Commission was created by a special act of the CT General Assembly in 1993, with a mission to encourage and stimulate economic development in Middlesex County by providing low interest loans and/or matching grants to small and mid-sized businesses in the region. The members of the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission (MCRC) are the chief elected official, or a designee, from each of the fifteen towns in Middlesex County, plus a representative from the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce. Visit https://mxcrc.org for more information.
Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Hosts A Free Narcan Training
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the Middlesex Chamber will be hosting a free training on the administration and uses for Narcan.
This important training will be held in-person at the Chamber office or via Zoom on Thursday, March 28, 2024 from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
This life saving program is presented by the Chamber’s Recovery Employment Program (REP), Middlesex County Substance Abuse Action Council (MCSAAC), the Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services (DMHAS) and Connecticut Harm Reduction Alliance.
Join Mark Jenkins, CEO & Founder, Connecticut Harm Reduction Alliance as he covers the following topics:
- Overdose Prevention Strategies
- Signs & Symptoms of Overdose
- How to Administer Naloxone
- Good Samaritan Law
- Support Information & Resources
Upon completion of training, Narcan will be dispensed to those who are in need.
To register for this free training, visit www.middlesexchamber.com.
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.
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PLEASE NOTE: To be added to the media list, email haley@middlesexchamber.com.
Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes UConn Women’s Head Basketball Coach, Geno Auriemma on March 18, 2024
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the University of Connecticut, Women’s Head Basketball Coach, Geno Auriemma, will serve as keynote speaker at a Chamber Breakfast Meeting on Monday, March 18, 2024.
The Breakfast Meeting will be held at the Sheraton Hartford South Hotel, Rocky Hill from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “We look forward to welcoming Coach Geno Auriemma back to our Member Breakfast Meeting on Monday, March 18. We are all very proud of Geno’s success in leading the UConn Women’s Basketball Program.”
The cost is $30 for Chamber Members and $40 for non-members.
Advance registration is required, please register online: www.middlesexchamber.com.
About Coach Geno Auriemma- Entering his 39th season in 2023-24, Geno Auriemma has redefined the meaning of success in as head coach of the University of Connecticut women’s basketball program. During his illustrious tenure, Auriemma has transformed the Huskies into an unmatched program of excellence.
Arriving to Storrs prior to the 1985-86 season, Auriemma has taken a program with just one winning season to its current state, which includes 11 NCAA Championships, 22 Final Fours, six perfect seasons and 57 conference championships.
A 2006 inductee to both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, Auriemma became just the fourth women’s basketball coach to reach 1,000 career wins on Dec. 19, 2017. He was the fastest coach to reach the mark, doing so in his 1,135th career game, and owns the best win percentage in the sport (.883).
Auriemma has been named Naismith National Coach of the Year eight times, AP National Coach of the Year nine times, WBCA National Coach of the Year seven times and conference coach of the year 16 times.
Under Auriemma, 26 Huskies have been selected as WBCA All-Americans for 46 total recognitions while a Husky has been named National Player of the Year 14 times.
He is the first coach in women's basketball history to guide a team to five consecutive Final Four appearances on two separate occasions and set a record with 14 consecutive Final Fours from 2008-22.
Off the court, the Huskies boast a perfect 100 percent graduation rate among four-year student-athletes while regularly participating in community service and outreach.
As members of the American Athletic Conference from 2013-20, UConn won the league’s regular season and tournament titles in each season while not dropping a game in conference play. UConn has swept both conference titles in the same year 22 times under Auriemma and a total of 25 Huskies have been named conference player of the year.
Auriemma served as head coach of the U.S. Women’s National team for eight years, leading Team USA to the 2012 and 2016 Olympic gold medals. He also led the United States to gold in the 2010 and 2014 FIBA World Championships.
Auriemma is a 1981 graduate of West Chester with a bachelor of arts in political science. He and his wife, Kathy, have three children and three grandchildren.
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.
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Free Professional Training & Development Classes Offered by Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the chamber once again plans to offer the “Professional Training & Development Program”, free of charge, in 2024. Classes will be conducted virtually via Zoom, during the months of April, May and June.
This important workforce development program has trained over 2,000 people since its inception in 1986. It has received many awards along the way including a Presidential Citation, and The Governor’s Laurel Award.
Chamber Workforce Development Director Lorenzo Marshall noted, “We are excited to once again offer these free classes for those who want to improve their skillset and their professional prospects. We are grateful to the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development for their support of this important program for our community.”
Classes offered include:
- Grant Writing
- Managing Yourself and Leading Others
- Google Sheets
- Google Docs
- Google Slides
- Career / Personal Coaching
- Money Matters / Financial Management
These programs are available to the public free of charge, and open for registration at this time.
For additional information on the program, please visit www.middlesexchamber.com and click on “For Business” tab to access Professional Training and Development site, you can also register there as well.
Please note that this program is grant funded and contingent on receipt of grant funds.
To schedule a pre-course appointment, or for more information concerning or signing up for classes offered, please contact Lorenzo Marshall at 860-347-6924 or lorenzo@middlesexchamber.com.
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.
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New Two-Year Bridge Bucks Program Announced
Retail, Retail Services, and Restaurants in East Haddam and Haddam Encouraged to Apply
MIDDLETOWN, Conn. — The Middlesex County Revitalization Commission (MCRC) announced the development of a new two-year funding program for retail, retail services, and restaurants in Haddam and East Haddam.
The Bridge Bucks Program was created to be a fun way to incentivize customers to re-visit businesses affected by the Swing Bridge closures and rotary construction on Route 154.
Funded by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, $10 Bridge Bucks coupons will be distributed to eligible businesses to share with customers, encouraging them to shop, despite the traffic delays, and redeem the Bridge Bucks on their next visit. The program is designed to boost sales for the businesses that are experiencing lost revenue due to the construction-related disruptions.
MCRC encourages retail, retail services, and restaurants within a 10-mile radius of the East Haddam Swing Bridge to build the Bridge Bucks into a fun and innovative marketing campaign and apply to participate. Applications for the 2024 Bridge Bucks open on March 11, 2024, and will be accepted and approved on a rolling basis.
Businesses that apply must be located in Haddam of East Haddam, Connecticut, and be in good standing with all municipal, state, and federal authorities. A full list of eligibility and application requirements can be found on the Commission’s website at https://mxcrc.org.
“We’ve worked to create a program that our retailers and restaurants can build a fun and innovative promotional campaign around – encouraging customers to brave Swing Bridge closures and traffic delays – and generate repeat business,“ said MCRC commissioner Irene Haines, first selectman of East Haddam, and originator of the Bridge Bucks idea, “hopefully helping the businesses to rebound from the lost revenues caused by the prolonged construction-related interruptions.”
“The Commission appreciates the opportunity given by the Department of Economic and Community Development through funding the Bridge Bucks Program. We hope that this can be a model program for other communities to help buoy the businesses affected by the interruptions of implementing critical infrastructure improvements,” said Robert McGarry, MCRC commissioner and first selectman of Haddam.
Virtual information sessions will be held for businesses interested in applying. For more information, please visit https://mxcrc.org.
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About the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission
The Middlesex County Revitalization Commission was created by a special act of the CT General Assembly in 1993, with a mission to encourage and stimulate economic development in Middlesex County by providing low interest loans and/or matching grants to small and mid-sized businesses in the region. The members of the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission (MCRC) are the chief elected official, or a designee, from each of the fifteen towns in Middlesex County, plus a representative from the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce. Visit https://mxcrc.org for more information.
Free Professional Training & Development Classes Offered by Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the chamber once again plans to offer the “Professional Training & Development Program”, free of charge, in 2024. Classes will be conducted virtually via Zoom, during the months of April, May and June.
This important workforce development program has trained over 2,000 people since its inception in 1986. It has received many awards along the way including a Presidential Citation, and The Governor’s Laurel Award.
Chamber Workforce Development Director Lorenzo Marshall noted, “We are excited to once again offer these free classes for those who want to improve their skillset and their professional prospects. We are grateful to the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development for their support of this important program for our community.”
Classes offered include:
- Grant Writing
- Managing Yourself and Leading Others
- Google Sheets
- Google Docs
- Google Slides
- Career / Personal Coaching
- Money Matters / Financial Management
These programs are available to the public free of charge, and open for registration at this time.
For additional information on the program, please visit www.middlesexchamber.com and click on “For Business” tab to access Professional Training and Development site, you can also register there as well.
Please note that this program is grant funded and contingent on receipt of grant funds.
To schedule a pre-course appointment, or for more information concerning or signing up for classes offered, please contact Lorenzo Marshall at 860-347-6924 or lorenzo@middlesexchamber.com.
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.
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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce to host Annual Legislative Breakfast
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the chamber will host its annual Legislative Breakfast on Monday, March 4 at 8:00 a.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott in Cromwell. This event is once again sponsored by Comcast.
All legislators representing Middlesex County and Rocky Hill have been invited to attend. The format is mainly question and answer, and at the event, the chamber’s 2024 Public Policy Agenda will be formally presented to the Middlesex County Legislative Delegation.
Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “The chamber’s Legislative Breakfast represents a great opportunity, on an annual basis, for our members to network with these important elected leaders that represent our region. I would like to thank our delegation for not only attending the event, but for their service to our state. Finally, I thank Comcast for its great support of this important event and of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce.
The cost to attend is $30.00 for Chamber members and $40.00 for non-chamber members. A hot breakfast will be served.
Advance registration required. Please register online: www.middlesexchamber.com.
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.
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Business Operating Grants Program 2023 Application to Open March 1
Middlesex County Businesses Encouraged to Apply
MIDDLETOWN, Conn. — The application for the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission’s (MCRC) 2024 Business Operating Grants Program will open online March 1, 2024. The program, funded through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, offers grants of up to $25,000 to qualified small businesses in Middlesex County Connecticut.
The 2024 application window — March 1 to March 31 — is for the second year of the five-year program that is designed to provide financial and technical assistance to business owners so that they continue business operations, and maintain - and grow - employment opportunities for Middlesex County residents. Applicants are asked to consider how the requested funds will make a positive impact on the growth and development of their business or mitigate the negative impact of a hardship currently being experienced. The grant funding may be used for equipment and/or technology, leasehold improvements, and other fixed costs, including costs associated with supply chain disruption, increased employee travel time/mileage expenses, increased vendor costs, loss of income, additional marketing expenses.
Businesses that apply must be based in, and have operated in, a Middlesex County town for at least 24 months, have no more than 50 employees, and be in good standing with all municipal, state, and federal authorities. A full list of eligibility and application requirements can be found on the Commission’s website at https://mxcrc.org.
“We are so pleased to be able to extend the opportunity for our County’s small businesses to benefit from a Business Operating Grant,“ said MCRC Chair Ryan Curley, first selectman of Portland, “Our Middlesex communities are built and sustained by small businesses, and these grants are designed to provide a boost to business owners, making a real impact on their business, its growth, and profitability.”
Virtual information sessions will be held for businesses interested in applying. For more information, please visit https://mxcrc.org.
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About the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission
The Middlesex County Revitalization Commission was created by a special act of the CT General Assembly in 1993, with a mission to encourage and stimulate economic development in Middlesex County by providing low interest loans and/or matching grants to small and mid-sized businesses in the region. The members of the Middlesex County Revitalization Commission (MCRC) are the chief elected official, or a designee, from each of the fifteen towns in Middlesex County, plus a representative from the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce. Visit https://mxcrc.org for more information.
Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce to Host Local National Civics Bee Competition
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes announced that Middlesex County middle school students will have the opportunity to compete in the National Civics Bee for the first time during the 2023-2024 school year. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, organizer of the National Civics Bee, has named the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce as an official partner to host a local competition in 2024.
The National Civics Bee is a competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. This exciting opportunity extends to students in grades 6, 7, and 8, granting them a unique platform to demonstrate their civics knowledge. Students can enter the competition by submitting an essay online through Monday, January 22, 2024.
For educators, the program offers valuable resources, including a teacher guide, to introduce the opportunity to their students. Resources are available through the Connecticut Business Industry Association (CBIA) and https://www.middlesexchamber.com/civics-bee/.
Participants in the National Civics Bee will have the chance to gain recognition for their civics knowledge and skills, and compete for prestigious prizes, including a $1,000 cash prize for the state champion. The competition enables students to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship.
This year, the National Civics Bee is expanding its reach to students in 28 states, with plans for a national competition scheduled for 2024. A three-year, $4.5 million grant from the Daniels Fund will allow the U.S. Chamber Foundation to scale these Bees to all 50 states by 2026.
“In these challenging times, fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is of utmost importance. The National Civics Bee provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation.
Applications are due by end of day on Monday, January 22, 2024
We are now seeking essay judges, sponsorships, and event judges! If you are interested in participating, please contact Sara Mendillo at 860-347-6924 or sara@middlesexchamber.com.
For more information about our local competition, please visit https://www.middlesexchamber.com/civics-bee/.
About National Civics Bee - The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Civic Trust, is an annual competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state and local chambers across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, and other funders.
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,900 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.
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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce to Host Member "Economic Outlook" Luncheon featuring Ron Insana on January 24, 2024
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman, Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that Ron Insana, Award-winning Journalist, Financial Analyst, Commentator, Author and Contributor to CNBC and MSNBC will serve as keynote speaker during our Middlesex Chamber Economic Outlook Luncheon on Wednesday, January 24, 2024.
The Luncheon, sponsored by Comcast Business, will be held at the Sheraton Hartford South Hotel from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “We look forward to welcoming Ron Insana to our Economic Outlook Luncheon. Ron raises the question, "Is 2024 the Year of the Old Normal?" Despite everything going on in the rest of the world, will the U.S. have a “normal economy” and relatively normal markets? Join us as Ron discusses this and more! A huge thank you to Comcast Business for sponsoring this event, and Ron Insana for speaking with our group.”
The cost is $35 for Chamber Members and $45 for non-members.
Advance registration is required, please register online: www.middlesexchamber.com.
About Ron Insana – Ron Insana covers the most pressing economic and market issues of the day for CNBC and contributes economic commentary and analysis to MSNBC, as well. He also delivers The Market Scoreboard Report to radio stations around the country.
For nearly four decades, Insana has been a highly respected business journalist and money manager, who began his career at the Financial News Network in 1984 and joined CNBC when FNN and CNBC merged in 1991.
Insana is well-known for his high-profile interviews and moderated conversations, which included Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush; government officials from Former Treasury Secretaries Nicholas Brady to Robert Rubin and Lawrence Summers, to name a few, Federal Reserve Chairs, from Paul Volcker to Alan Greenspan to Ben Bernanke and other leading cabinet officials over the last several decades, In addition, Insana was the first among CNBC anchors to land interviews with billionaire investors Warren Buffett, George Soros and Julian Robertson, among others; and captains of industry from Bill Gates to the late Jack Welch and Steve Jobs, as well as noted economists, analysts and global heads of state, from former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to Jordan’s Queen Rania.
Insana was named one of the “Top 100 Business News Journalists of the 20th Century” and was nominated for a news and documentary Emmy for his role in NBC’s coverage of 9/11.
He has authored four books on Wall Street and is a highly regarded lecturer on domestic and global economics, financial markets and economic policy issues.
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,900 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.
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January is National Mentoring Month!
Become a Mentor with the Hal Kaplan Middletown Mentor Program
(Middletown, CT.) Chairman, Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the Hal Kaplan Middletown Mentor Program is now accepting mentors!
During this Mentor Recognition Month, we want to give a Very Special Thank You to our Hal Kaplan Middletown Mentors for constantly being there to support our young people, as we continue our mission to support MENTORING in the Middletown Public Schools.
Mentors Needed!!
Make a Lasting Impression in the Life of a Child….
Children….The world’s most precious resource
With over 32 Years of Mentoring in the Middletown Public Schools, the Hal Kaplan Middletown Mentor Program is a valuable community asset, we believe enhances the quality of life for a child by providing an adult Mentor who has time for that child, and who truly believes in that child. We ask you to make a lasting impression in the life of a child…and enjoy every minute of it. Whether you are a business executive, or a private individual with an hour a week to spare, you can help benefit the life of a child by volunteering as a Mentor and/or making a monetary donation. All it takes to become a Mentor is a small amount of time, a big heart, and a desire to become a valuable part of a child’s life. ALL PROSPECTIVE CANDIDATES MUST COMPLETE AN APPLICANT PROFILE, AND A DCF CPS BACKGROUND SEARCH.
To learn more in person, please join us on January 17 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort, Middlefield for an in-person question and answer session as well as discussions with current mentors.
For more information on the mentor program, please visit https://www.middlesexchamber.com/mentor-program/
To volunteer as a Mentor, please contact: JENNIFER, Chamber Coordinator,
Hal Kaplan Middletown Mentor Program jennifer@middlesexchamber.com
About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment. In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month. Currently, the Chamber is working to reinvigorate our Manufacturing Council and bring together our manufacturing members to connect over the sharing of ideas and solutions that strengthen the industry in Middlesex County and across Connecticut.
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