Derek Slap

Small Business Seminars At State Community Colleges Now Live

Seminars, passed and funded in state budget, result of legislation introduced by State Senator Derek Slap

Connecticut State Community Colleges are now providing free, statewide seminars for small businesses and startups seeking aid, guidance, education and training in navigating the rapid shifts in the post-pandemic economic environment. These seminars, which will be offered through mid-December, include topics such as e-commerce, social media advertising, cybersecurity, financing, startup law and startup fundraising.

Funded by this year’s state budget, these courses were spurred by legislation introduced this year by State Senator Derek Slap (D-West Hartford) to the Higher Education Committee and inspired by Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven). Aware of the increased challenges posed by the post-pandemic economy, including significant consumer shifts to online and e-commerce platforms, these courses are designed to encourage economic development and provide small businesses and startups with the tools and advice necessary to help them succeed and thrive.

“Small businesses play a vital role in our local communities, and these seminars will provide them with additional tools to better compete in a shifting marketplace,” said Sen. Slap. “Local businesses will be better able to utilize important resources like e-commerce as a tool and resource. I encourage small business leaders and entrepreneurs to sign up for these free courses as soon as possible.”

Most sessions are offered both virtually and in-person, with in-person classes held at state community colleges, co-working spaces and local chambers of commerce. The sessions are taught by experts in their fields, helping entrepreneurs develop business and overcome pressing challenges.

Since 2014, worldwide e-commerce sales have more than tripled, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, small businesses experienced significant loss of revenue in the pandemic. This legislation follows similar programs introduced in states like North Carolina and earned the support of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association, which noted small businesses often do not have the ability to invest time and resources into the practices these seminars cover.

For a full schedule of seminars, and to sign up to attend them, please visit https://www.housatonic.edu/state-seminars.