Starting a business is an exhilarating journey, but it’s also one filled with challenges, setbacks, and uncertainties. One of the key factors that separates those who succeed from those who give up is passion. While strategy, funding, and market research are critical, passion is the fuel that keeps entrepreneurs moving forward when things get tough. […]

CCEI’s EBV program continues our quarterly Alumni Spotlight series with Shon Barnwell. Shon is currently the proud owner and operator of three entrepreneurial efforts: Shon Barnwell Events produces memorable celebrations and travel adventures; Barnwell Publishing designs and delivers impactful workforce training; and Team Barnwell Properties acquires, rents, and manages residential real estate. Mehgan Williams, EBV’s […]

The Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CCEI) is proud to present the 14 veterans and military spouses selected to participate in our annual Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans program (EBV). Offered in three phases, EBV provides veterans with the skills necessary to successfully launch and grow a new business. Through online coursework, an intense on-campus […]

CCEI’s Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV) program continues our quarterly Alumni Spotlight series, with Lawrence Dapo. Lawrence is the proud owner and operator of a Small Disabled Veteran Owned Business, Jackson Ryan Construction Services, Inc. The construction company works on projects for the federal government, often tied to VA Hospitals, and most recently at the […]

CCEI’s Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV) program is excited to kick off our quarterly Alumni Spotlight series, starting off with Dan and Ashley Rice. Dan and Ashley graduated from the EBV program in 2017 and started New England Vascular Access that same year. Dan is now a certified registered nurse anesthetist, while Ashley is a […]

I read some great books this summer, including our CCEI Book Club book (Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara). Today, I wanted to share a few of these books with you, as well as some insights and ‘ah ha’ moments I had throughout my reading journeys.    1. Dare to Lead by Brené Brown Yes, yes, […]

Who’s ready for Hartford Innovation Week? We’re proud to be supporting two exciting events to help spread the word on innovation in our city! Please read each of the two descriptions below, and RSVP to reserve your spot. Real Stories of Raising Startup Funding Wednesday, September 27th from 3-5PM CCEI Hartford Office (100 Constitution Plaza, […]

Starting a new business is an exhilarating journey, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most crucial aspects of building a successful business is managing your finances effectively. Budgeting for your startup is not just about keeping your expenses in check; it’s also about planning for growth and ensuring that […]

Certain books I read and can’t put down. But with most books lately, I like to read with intention. I have gotten to the point where I have multiple books going at one time. I read until I gain an insight so clear that I stop reading and pick up the book at later point […]

The Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is excited to announce the six startups selected to participate in the eighth annual Wolff New Venture Competition! The Wolff New Venture Competition features live pitches by the top startups coming out of UConn each year. The legwork for the competition begins in the spring, where 10 startups […]