Business Assistance
New Haven offers a strong environment for starting, growing, and relocating a business. Companies benefit from access to a highly educated workforce, major research and healthcare institutions, an active entrepreneurial ecosystem, and connections to regional and state business resources.
The City and its partners work with businesses at every stage—from entrepreneurs developing an idea to established companies planning an expansion. Assistance may include help identifying financing, navigating permitting and regulatory requirements, finding space, connecting with workforce programs, and locating technical or industry-specific resources.
New Haven also works to expand access to business ownership and investment opportunities for entrepreneurs who have historically faced barriers to capital, networks, and technical assistance.
If you are unsure where to begin, contact the Economic Development Corporation of New Haven. We can help identify the organizations and programs that best fit your needs.
State of Connecticut Business Resources
Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD)
DECD is Connecticut’s lead economic development agency and provides financing, incentives, technical assistance, and other support for businesses considering growth or investment in the state. Current programs include financing resources for businesses of different sizes, including the Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund and CT Opportunity Fund. (CT.gov)
Business.CT.gov
For businesses that are starting or need help navigating state requirements, Business.CT.gov serves as Connecticut’s central business portal. It provides guidance on forming and registering a business, licenses and permits, funding, taxes, hiring, compliance, and business growth. Its New Business Checklist can also help entrepreneurs identify the steps needed to launch a company in Connecticut. (Connecticut Business Website)
DECD Business Assistance
860-500-2300
Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development
Updated August 2026