Business Resources
Madison and the surrounding shoreline region are home to a variety of resources to support businesses of all sizes—from entrepreneurs just starting out to long-established small businesses looking to grow. Whether you need help navigating funding, business planning, marketing, or legal support, there’s a wealth of local and statewide organizations ready to help.
Below is a sampling of helpful business resources. Please reach out to these organizations directly for the most up-to-date services and support they offer.
Advising, Funding & Support
SCORE – Southeastern Connecticut & New Haven Chapters
SCORE provides free business mentoring, educational workshops, and tools to entrepreneurs and small business owners. Meet with a certified mentor or attend one of their many virtual and in-person events.
https://www.score.org
New Haven Chapter: (203) 865-7645
SECT Chapter: (860) 388-9508
CT Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC)
CTSBDC offers no-cost, confidential advising to help Connecticut small businesses grow. Services include business planning, financial forecasting, marketing support, and access to capital.
https://ctsbdc.uconn.edu
(877) 723-2828
Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC)
WBDC supports women entrepreneurs through personalized advising, financial education, and small business grants. They offer programs statewide and focus on helping women launch and scale successful businesses.
https://ctwbdc.org
(203) 353-1750
Community Economic Development Fund (CEDF)
CEDF is a nonprofit lender providing loans, business training, and support to Connecticut small businesses that may not qualify for traditional financing.
https://www.cedf.com
(203) 235-2333
CTNext
CTNext is a statewide program that supports entrepreneurs with innovation grants, technical support, mentorship, and startup tools.
https://ctnext.com
Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce – Small Business Resources
This regional chamber offers valuable educational events, workforce programs, and guidance for shoreline and inland businesses.
https://middlesexchamber.com
Local & State Business Services
Town of Madison – Economic Development
The Economic Development Commission in Madison offers information on permits, zoning, business registration, and site selection within town.
https://www.madisonct.org
(203) 245-5600
AdvanceCT
AdvanceCT partners with the state to help businesses expand or relocate in Connecticut, providing data, site selection help, and direct connections to state programs.
https://www.advancect.org
Connecticut Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD)
The DECD offers statewide programs, grants, and business support tools for companies of all sizes, industries, and growth stages.
https://portal.ct.gov/DECD
Specialized Resources
Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) – New England
The VBOC provides business development assistance to veterans and military spouses, including training, mentoring, and help accessing capital.
https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/veterans-business-outreach-center-vboc
reSET – Social Enterprise Trust
reSET supports entrepreneurs launching social enterprises through training, coworking space, accelerator programs, and mentorship.
https://www.resetco.org
Need Help Getting Started?
The Madison Chamber of Commerce is here to support your success. If you’re not sure where to begin or want help making connections, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to point you in the right direction.
Email:
chamber@madisonct.com
Phone: (203) 245-7394
https://www.madisonct.com