News
Comcast Breaks Ground to Expand its High-Speed Network in Greater Hartford and Middletown, CT
Comcast Breaks Ground to Expand its High-Speed Network in Greater Hartford and Middletown, CT $5.9 Million Investment Will Bring Advanced Connectivity Solutions to the Region’s Business Community Berlin, CT – March 10, 2026 – Comcast today announced the start of construction to extend its reliable, high speed network further into Greater Hartford and Middletown, bringing advanced connectivity, secure networking and managed technology solutions from Comcast Business to businesses across the region. The
BL Companies President and CEO Carolyn Stanworth to Retire at End of Year
MERIDEN — BL Companies, an employee-owned, multidisciplinary architecture, engineering, environmental and land surveying firm, has announced that President and CEO Carolyn Stanworth will retire in December 2026. “This will bring to a close a fulfilling 27-year journey at BL, the last 20 years as an employee-owned company and culture — something for which I am most proud,” Stanworth said. “This decision comes after thoughtful reflection on my career and all that we have accomplished together and the
State Project 82-318 – Removal of the Traffic Signals on Route 9 City of Middletown Project Schedule Status – March 2026
State Project 82-318 – Removal of the Traffic Signals on Route 9 City of MiddletownProject Schedule Status – March 2026Current Status Finalized Cultural Resource EvaluationThe Cultural Resource Evaluation, which was required to satisfy the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Connecticut Environmental Policy Act (CEPA), has been completed. The evaluation determined that there would be no adverse effects as a result of this project. The term “cultural resources” covers a wider range of resources
Ellafi Federal Credit Union Names Robyn Swanson President & CEO
MIDDLETOWN, CT (February 23, 2025) — Ellafi Federal Credit Union, formerly known as Seasons Federal Credit Union, has named longtime executive Robyn Swanson as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Swanson previously served as Senior Vice President and has been with the organization for 27 years. Following the retirement announcement of former President and CEO Keith Wiemert last fall, the Board of Directors initiated a nationwide executive search. Swanson was selected from
Crafting a Pitch That Connects: A Guide for Middlesex County Businesses
For many small businesses in Middlesex County, the sales pitch is still the deciding moment—when a potential customer either sees clear value or quietly drifts away. Strong offerings lose deals every day not because they’re weak, but because the pitch never fully lands. Learn below about: How clarity outperforms charisma in modern pitching Ways to simplify your story for different buyer types Practical structure upgrades that lift comprehension One overlooked visual tactic that preserves message
Chapco announces new 150,000 sqft manufacturing facility. Strengthens support for defense primes and commercial partners
For Immediate Release: Chester, CT: January 15, 2026 – Chapco, Inc., today announced a major expansion with its move to a new 150,000 sqft state of the art manufacturing facility in Deep River, CT. Founded in 1964, Chapco, Inc. has grown to supply advanced fabrication and assemblies to partners across the defense industrial base, medical technology, energy, AI infrastructure, and commercial manufacturing markets. The company is well known across the region for complex projects, from early concept
Building Lasting Vendor Relationships: Communication, Trust & Collaboration in Middlesex County
Business owners across Middlesex County know that their vendors and suppliers aren’t just service providers — they’re strategic partners. Strong relationships with them lead to smoother operations, better pricing, and greater resilience when markets fluctuate. TL;DR Solid vendor relationships are built on three pillars: clear communication, mutual trust, and consistent collaboration. Communicate early, clearly, and in writing. Build trust through reliability and transparency. Collaborate
UNAPEN Blog: Managed IT Services for Wealth Managers, Non-Profits and SMBs: Essential Tips for Security, Resilience, and Growth
8 Core components you should require from your Managed IT Services partner, listed here in priority order — start at the top and work down as budget allows.Discover How Managed IT Services can Revolutionize Your BusinessManaged IT Services ensures security, compliance, and efficiency at every step. Technology is central to client trust, regulatory compliance, and organizational resilience. For Wealth/Investment Management firms, Non-Profit Organizations, and small-to-mid size businesses (SMBs), a strong
Scaling Smart: How Small Businesses Can Manage Sudden, Rapid Growth
When a small business experiences rapid growth, the excitement is often matched by chaos. Demand surges, processes strain, and teams scramble to keep up. Yet, with the right structure, systems, and mindset, sudden expansion can be transformed from a threat into a strategic advantage. Below, we explore the tools, frameworks, and governance strategies that help founders scale sustainably without losing their core advantage. Recognizing the Signs of “Breakneck Growth” Growth can sneak up on a
From Paperwork to Productivity: Simple Tools That Transform Local Businesses
Running a local business today isn’t just about delivering products or services — it’s about creating smooth, trustworthy experiences for customers, employees, and partners. Yet many organizations still rely on outdated processes that quietly drain resources and erode credibility. This article explores how modernizing day-to-day operations can eliminate hidden costs, introduce simple digital tools that streamline workflows, and reinforce trust across relationships. The Hidden Costs of Outdated
Chapco celebrates manufacturing month - achieves ISO9001:2015
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEChester, CT – October 1, 2025 – Chapco, Inc., a leader in precision sheet metal fabrication and contract manufacturing solutions since 1964, today announced it has achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification, the internationally recognized benchmark for Quality Management Systems. As a Connecticut-based manufacturer, serving the Northeast U.S. and beyond, Chapco plays a vital role in mission-critical supply chains across defense, industrial, medical, and commercial sectors.“This certification
The Hidden Costs New Entrepreneurs Overlook (and How to Plan Ahead)
Starting a business is exciting — but first-time founders often underestimate the true cost of getting operations off the ground. Beyond obvious expenses like rent, supplies, or payroll, there are less visible costs that can derail cash flow if ignored. Planning for these overlooked expenses can make the difference between early struggles and long-term sustainability. 1. Insurance and Compliance Many entrepreneurs focus on product or service development but forget the need for liability, property,
Outsmart the Blank Page: Design Tricks for Non-Designers
Design can feel like a closed-door club. Between expensive tools, endless jargon, and the looming threat of “looking amateur,” many small business owners freeze before they even begin. But here’s the secret: you don’t need an art degree to build brand visuals that work. You just need a few clear moves, the right rhythm, and tools that let you think with your hands. This is for the entrepreneurs squeezing design time between client calls and school pickups — the ones doing it all, fast. Start Where You
Why Visual Storytelling Is the Edge Your Small Business Needs
In a landscape where attention spans are measured in seconds and scrolling is second nature, the need for striking, resonant content has never been more urgent. While many small businesses still default to copy-heavy promotions or generic stock images, the brands that rise above the din do so with stories told through pictures, videos, and design. Visual storytelling isn't just decoration—it’s persuasion with a pulse. It turns your products, services, and ethos into a narrative that people not only
Scaling the Long Road: Strategies That Actually Work for Business Growth at Every Stage
Getting a business off the ground is one kind of challenge. Keeping it alive is another. But figuring out how to grow—how to do it smartly, sustainably, and without selling out the soul of the thing—is where strategy separates itself from noise. Growth, in truth, doesn’t follow a formula. It’s a blend of experimentation, timing, instinct, and the right moves at the right stage. Here’s what smart growth actually looks like, stripped of buzzwords and rooted in what’s real. Planting with Intention:
Strategies That Keep Your Trucking Business Ahead of the Curve
Starting a trucking business is more than just hitting the open road; it’s about crafting a venture that balances freedom with financial success. The trucking industry offers vast opportunities, but it demands a strategic approach to thrive. From understanding regulatory requirements to making informed financial decisions, each step is crucial. This article delves into the essential strategies that can transform your trucking business from a mere idea into a profitable enterprise. By focusing on
