April 2012

The DECD has rolled out the Small Business Express Program.  There are many facets to this package so this month we will be focusing on two of these programs: The Job Creation Matching Grant Program and the Revolving Loan Fund Program.
The Job Creation Matching Grant Program makes dollar-for-dollar matching grants available at a minimum of $10,000 and a maximum of $100,000 to provide money for specific job creation, capital investment and working capital goals. Eligible expenditures are training, working capital, purchase of machinery and equipment, construction or leasehold improvements, relocation within the state, or other business related expenditures authorized by the Commissioner of the DECD. Qualified applicants must employ less than 50 employees, be Connecticut based with operations in Connecticut, have been registered to conduct business in the state for at least 12 months and be in good standing with state and local taxes. Priority is given to economic-based industries and businesses likely to maintain growth. To apply for this program or for more information please contact Michelle Lugo at 860-270-8052 or via email at michelle.lugo@ct.gov.
The Small Business Express Revolving Loan Fund Program loans amounts from $10,000 to $100,000 with up to a 4% interest rare for a maximum 5-year term to assist businesses with capital expenditures. Eligible expenditures are working capital, purchase of machinery and equipment, construction or leasehold improvements, relocation within the state, or other business related expenditures authorized by the Commissioner of the DECD. The DECD will determine loan terms, conditions, and collateral requirements in a manner that prioritizes job growth and retention. Qualified applicants must employ less than 50 employees, be Connecticut based with operations in Connecticut, have been registered to conduct business in the state for at least 12 months and be in good standing with state and local taxes. Priority is given to economic-based industries.  To apply for this program or for more information please contact Michelle Lugo at 860-270-8052 or via email at michelle.lugo@ct.gov.
Ericson's Ice Cream Builds New Home in Norwich
While most of us are breaking out the shorts and flip flops, the waterfront at Howard Brown Park is getting ready for summer too! A short stroll along the waterfront wall and you’ll discover the future home of Erickson’s Ice Cream and Café and nothing says summer like the frozen creamy taste of ice cream. Established in 1969, Erickson’s is a destination spot for ice cream lovers in Carver, MA - this summer ice cream aficionados in Norwich will be able to treat themselves to that rich luscious frozen confection here at Howard Brown Park. Slated to open in June, Erickson’s will be serving up its menu of 60 ice cream flavors as well as Sundaes and other sweet treats. Erickson’s management touts “A trip to Erickson's can guarantee two things: a heaping cone or dish of ice cream and something rare among some businesses - Service with a smile.” Stop by and see for yourself - we’re going to - YUMMM!
Featured Property
120 Water/Market Street
Standing at the intersection of Market Street and Water Street is the historic Haymarket Building, home to LaStella’s and 99Main.  Tucked snugly into the corner on the Water Street side is a charming little storefront. One look in at the broad expanse of display windows and one is transported back to the days of general stores and dry goods. It’s easy to image the windows of that vintage building filled with merchandise. Imagine them as a showcase for an array of consigned vintage clothes or filled with baskets of vibrantly colored yarns and bolts of cloth or maybe displays of artwork in a specialty art supply store. Just steps from the harbor and Howard Brown Park, this is an ideal space for the creative type. A walk up the wide granite steps in front can transport you to as many places as you choose to imagine.
Save The Date
Norwich's Intermodal Transportaion Center nears completion and NCDC is getting ready to hand over the keys to the city at the Grand Opening on Saturday, June 9th at 11AM. Mark the date in your calendar for this Grand Opening Event! ![]() |
Shetucket River Clean Up
The Greeneville Neighborhood Revitalization Zone committee is hosting an Earth Day cleanup along the Shetucket River. It was originally scheduled for Sunday April 22, but has been rescheduled to Saturday, May 19th due to incliment weather Sunday. The group is meeting on the east side of the 8th street bridge hope you can attend!

Upcoming Meetings
Next Board Meetings:
April 26, 2012
7:30 AM
77 Main Street
Norwich, CT
May 24, 2012
7:30 AM
77 Main Street
Norwich, CT




