Opportunity Zones, Child Care Grant, Webinars and More

Opportunity Zone Webinar

On Tuesday, December 15, DECD will host a webinar to help equity investors and entrepreneurs more effectively utilize Connecticut’s Opportunity Zone program as a method of investing in businesses.

The Opportunity Zone program increases investment in underserved communities and offers a path for investors to benefit from tax-advantaged returns. Connecticut has more than 70 federally designated Opportunity Zones across the state.

Alexandra Daum, DECD’s Deputy Commissioner and Chief Investment Officer, will lead the webinar and be joined by industry experts Debbie Klis of Rimon Law and Brian Philips of The Pearl Fund

Attendees will learn more about the Opportunity Zone program in Connecticut including:

· What are qualified Opportunity Zone businesses?

· How can Opportunity Zones be utilized by businesses & VCs?

· Models for investment and partnership

Click here for more information and to register for the webinar.

We hope you will join us for this important event.

Sincerely,

David Lehman, Commissioner

david.lehman@ct.gov, (860) 500-2310

WBDC-OEC Emergency Child Care Relief Grant

WBDC, in partnership with the CT Office of Early Childhood (OEC) and the CT Governor’s Workforce Council (GWC), is offering grants of up to $20,000 to qualified child care service providers to help cover operating expenses.

The deadline to submit your complete application package is

Thursday, December 10th, 2020

Supporting documentation must be included with the application or provided within three business days of application for consideration.

Check your eligibility and apply here.

Manufacturing Grants Available

Connecticut's Manufacturing Innovation Fund, an initiative of the CT DECD, is currently accepting applications for grants in the areas of IOT, Additive Manufacturing and Manufacturing Innovation.

The Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology is managing the matching grant programs that range from $20,000 to $100,000 depending on the program. Applications, specifications and deadlines are available here:

· IOT Innovation Voucher Program

· Additive Manufacturing Adoption Program (AMAP)

Conn Manufacturing Innovation Fund Voucher Program

Connecticut Paid Leave Program

The CT Paid Leave program applies to all Connecticut businesses with one or more employees, therefore it is important for all employers with Connecticut workers to register with the CT Paid Leave Authority.

Businesses interested in seeking an exemption from the program can learn about the CT Paid Leave opt-out requirements and apply for an exemption from the program through the registration process.

Sole proprietors and those who are self-employed are eligible to opt in to the program through the registration process.

As registration is now open, visit CTPaidLeave.org to register your business.