reSET Social Enterprise Trust

reSET Announces Full Agenda for Beyond Business As Usual 2026:Scaling Resilient Entrepreneurship

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:29:01 GMT

Summit Brings Together State Leaders, Policymakers, and Entrepreneurs During National Small Business Week

NEW HAVEN, CT (April 23, 2026) — reSET, the nonprofit organization whose mission is advancing the social enterprise sector and providing inclusive entrepreneurial support across Connecticut, today announced the full agenda for Beyond Business As Usual 2026: Scaling Resilient Entrepreneurship , a one-day summit taking place on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at CT State Community College–Gateway in New Haven , hosted during National Small Business Week.

The summit will gather Connecticut's entrepreneurs, ecosystem builders, policymakers, and small business champions in a day-long summit designed to chart a more inclusive and resilient economy. The program is built around three panel conversations, a new hands-on roundtable experience called The Trading Post, and will also feature the presentation of the results of a state-wide survey on the state of responsible business in Connecticut.

“Beyond Business As Usual has been a staple of reSET since 2010, and this year’s focus on scaling resilient entrepreneurship really comes from the moment we’re in, where there’s a lot of change and uncertainty, and a need to make sure Connecticut businesses are set up to succeed now and into the future.,” said Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. “We’re bringing entrepreneurs, policymakers and funders to the table to envision what a more inclusive and sustainable economy can look like, and I’m excited for the conversations, both on May 7th and beyond.”

Beyond Business As Usual Agenda At a Glance–May 7, 2026

9:00–10:00 a.m. — Registration, Networking Breakfast & Business Expo
10:00–11:00 a.m. — Opening remarks, Awards and Responsible Business Survey Findings
11:00 a.m.--12:00 p.m. – Panel 1: Envisioning Connecticut’s Resilient Future
12:00 p.m. –1:00 p.m. — Lunch & Networking
1:00–2:00 p.m. — Panel 2: Breaking Barriers: Regulatory Reform for Small Business
2:00–3:00 p.m. — Panel 3: Funding the Future: Beyond Traditional Capital
1:00-3:00 p.m. The Trading Post
3:00–3:30 p.m. — Closing Reflections

Agenda Details:

Envisioning Connecticut’s Resilient Future 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

This forward-looking session will spotlight what lies ahead for entrepreneurs and small business owners across the state. Attendees will hear where Connecticut is directing resources, upcoming grant and loan opportunities, and emerging initiatives that are shaping the next chapter of economic growth in the region. From the state and national level, we’ll hear how business leaders can participate in policy advocacy and engagement and lead with inclusive and sustainable practices.

Panelists:

Jennifer D. Barahona , Deputy Secretary of State, Connecticut;
Jessica Dodge , Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD); and
Camilla Taylor , Executive Director, American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN) a national nonprofit mobilizing business leaders toward a just and sustainable economy.
Moderated by Sujata Srinivasan of Connecticut Public Radio

Breaking Barriers: Regulatory Reform for Small Business 1:00-2:00 p.m.

This tactical session will dive into how regulatory systems impact entrepreneurs on the ground, and what it takes to build a more equitable and supportive business environment across Connecticut. Policy shapes who gets to start, grow, and sustain a business, and we’ll explore where barriers exist, what is working, and how entrepreneurs and ecosystem leaders can help drive meaningful change.

Panelists:

Kwame Asare , Founder of food brand Oh Shito! and alumnus of Collab
Dustin Nord , Director, CBIA Foundation
Caroline Tanbee Smith , New Haven Alder, Ward 9 and Co-Founder of Collab
Moderated by Marian Andoh Clarke , Director of Economic Mobility and Small Business Development, Clay Arsenal CDC in Hartford

Funding the Future: Beyond Traditional Capital 2:00-3:00 p.m.

Access to capital is evolving, and so are the options available to entrepreneurs beyond traditional bank loans and investments. This session brings together mission-driven lenders and alternative funders to pull back the curtain on how these models work, what makes them different, and how they are expanding access for entrepreneurs who have historically been underserved by conventional financing.

Panelists:

Avery Gaddis , Chief Lending Officer, HEDCO and member of the Connecticut Social Equity Council
Mark Hayles , CEO Better Local Capital
Yaw Owusu-Boahen , Vice President, Impact Investing at ConnCorp and Ford Global Fellow
Moderated by Terence Floyd , Vice President, Senior Social Impact Specialist, Wells Fargo

Trading Post 1:30-3:00 p.m.

In the afternoon, BBAU 2026 will feature a new, dynamic, round-table style networking and workshopping experience entitled The Trading Post. During this time, entrepreneurs and attendees engage with facilitated subject-matter experts across a variety of topics that are top of mind for responsible business such as artificial intelligence, funding and banking, legal, food business, how to pay yourself, work-life balance, and more. Entrepreneurs will share a real challenge within the topics, workshop it with fellow attendees, and walk away with fresh ideas and new connections.

About Beyond Business As Usual

Beyond Business As Usual 2026: Scaling Resilient Entrepreneurship is a one-day summit taking place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at CT State Community College–Gateway in New Haven. Made possible with lead support from Presenting Sponsor Wells Fargo, the summit will unite entrepreneurs, small business owners, policymakers, and funders from across Connecticut to forge bold strategies for a more inclusive and resilient economy. The summit is hosted during National Small Business Week and features three mainstage panels alongside the interactive Trading Post breakout experience. Tickets range from $75 to $150; registration is open at www.resetco.org/bbau

About reSET

Founded in 2007, reSET is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Hartford, CT, whose mission is advancing the social enterprise sector and providing inclusive entrepreneurial support across Connecticut. In February 2025, reSET acquired New Haven-based Collab, combining complementary strengths to create a more robust ecosystem for impact-driven entrepreneurs throughout the region. reSET specializes in social enterprise — impact-driven businesses with double or triple bottom lines — providing coworking space, accelerator programs, and mentoring services that inspire innovation and community collaboration. To date, reSET and Collab have assisted over 500 small businesses to start and grow with impact, and reached thousands more through low-touch supports. Visit resetco.org to learn more.

# # #

reSET to Host Beyond Business as Usual Summit in New Haven May 7 2026

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 02:31:25 GMT

reSET to Host Beyond Business As Usual 2026: Scaling Resilient Entrepreneurship

One-Day Summit Brings Together Connecticut Entrepreneurs, Policymakers, and Innovation Leaders During National Small Business Week

NEW HAVEN, CT – Thursday, April 2, 2026 – reSET, Connecticut's nonprofit entrepreneurial support organization assisting social entrepreneurs, today announced Beyond Business As Usual 2026: Scaling Resilient Entrepreneurship , a one-day summit taking place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at CT State Community College–Gateway in New Haven.

Made possible with lead support from Presenting Sponsor Wells Fargo , the summit will unite entrepreneurs, small business owners, policymakers, and funders from across Connecticut to forge bold strategies for a more inclusive and resilient economy. Tickets range from $75 to $150, and registration is now open at www.resetco.org/bbau .

Hosted during National Small Business Week , Beyond Business As Usual 2026 will feature three mainstage panels with state officials, mission-driven funders, policy advocates, and entrepreneurs, alongside an interactive breakout experience called the Trading Post —where attendees can workshop their most pressing business challenges in small-group roundtables facilitated by subject matter experts.

A Program Built for the Realities Entrepreneurs Face Today

The day's panel programming will tackle some of the most consequential issues shaping Connecticut's entrepreneurial landscape:

State Innovation for Future Resilience — A conversation with state officials and innovation leaders about upcoming grant and loan opportunities, priority investment areas, and new initiatives shaping the future for small business owners across Connecticut.
Breaking Barriers: Regulatory Reform for Small Business — An exploration of how policy shapes entrepreneurial opportunity and how business owners can engage in advocacy to drive change. Panelists will include entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated and influenced policy, alongside public officials and policy experts.
Funding the Future: Beyond Traditional Capital — A look at the evolving landscape of mission-driven lending beyond the typical bank loan or investment, including revenue-based financing, character-based lending, and other alternative capital models. Panelists will represent a range of funders with innovative approaches to impactful and inclusive financing.

The summit will also feature the presentation of original survey findings on the state of sustainable and mission-driven business in Connecticut, conducted in partnership with the Connecticut Sustainable Business Council. The resilience award will recognize funders and entrepreneurs who have demonstrated exceptional perseverance and impact in Connecticut.

"In today’s challenging economy for entrepreneurs, reSET is thrilled to convene the Beyond Business As Usual Summit to galvanize a statewide conversation on what it actually takes to build an economy that works for everyone,” said Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET. “The Summit serves as an excellent platform for entrepreneurs and support organizations to engage and advocate for inclusive and equitable policy and programs."

About the reSET Trading Post

Running concurrently with afternoon panels, the reSET Trading Post offers a hands-on peer learning experience beyond networking. Attendees can join small-group roundtables of six to eight people to workshop a challenge with fellow entrepreneurs and facilitators. Facilitated topics will span AI, digital marketing, funding and banking, legal, insurance, food business, procurement, and more.

About reSET

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Amy Walsh at awalsh@resetco.org .

Registration and event information are available at resetco.org/bbau .

# # #

Leadership Transition Announcement: reSET Executive Director to Step Down in 2026

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 20:31:47 GMT

Dear reSET Community,

The Board of Directors today announces the departure of Sarah Bodley as Executive Director of reSET in a planned transition later this year. The Board has immense gratitude for Sarah and all her contributions over the years. Over the last seven years, Sarah has built an amazing foundation for the organization and she leaves reSET in a strong position for continued growth and service.

Sarah joined reSET in 2018 and over the past seven years has solidified and expanded reSET’s mission of supporting impact-driven entrepreneurs throughout Connecticut.

Here are a few key highlights from Sarah’s time here:

Facilitated the acquisition of Collab New Haven, expanding reSET’s footprint to a statewide geography and further enhancing our mission
Developed and implemented new core programs including the award-winning Food Incubator, as well as the Food Accelerator, Retail Incubator, Measure What Matters, and Digital Marketing Mastermind
Established reSET as a founding partner of the Hartford Culinary Collaborative, enabling greater connectivity and cooperation among food-centric support organizations in our region
Doubled the organization’s budget to over 1 Million Dollars, securing multi-year State government grants
Won the prestigious Neighborhood Builders Award from Bank of America, and the Leadership Greater Hartford Polaris Community Award in 2022
Established an endowment fund thanks to support from the Zachs Family Foundation to support the long term sustainability of reSET’s mission

Over the coming months, we will be continuing our search to find reSET's next Executive Director. Sarah will stay onboard through June to ensure a smooth handoff to our next leader, and will be available as a resource throughout 2026. It is the Board of Directors’ priority, along with Sarah's, to make this transition as smooth as possible to continue the great work Sarah has helped us do over her tenure. The Executive Director’s Job Posting can be found at this link, and we invite you to keep in mind any potential candidates in your community or network that you think might be a great fit.

The Board of Directors wishes Sarah the best of luck in her future endeavors. We are appreciative of the dedication and enthusiasm she has given to reSET over the last seven years, particularly navigating our organization seamlessly during the historic times of the pandemic, changes in administration, and an ever-evolving landscape of opportunity for entrepreneurs. We are confident that with Sarah’s support, this transition will be a smooth one for our Connecticut entrepreneurs, partners, and generous supporters. We look forward to continuing our growth and to serving our mission of supporting the social enterprise sector.

If you have any questions or concerns during this transition, please don’t hesitate to reach out via contacting admin@resetco.org to get in touch with the board.

Sincerely,

Ali Lazowski + Dave Menard, co-chairs, reSET Board of Directors

Applications Open for Spring 2026 Impact Accelerator

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:46:00 GMT

Inviting Impact Entrepreneurs Into Transformative Growth

Hartford, CT – February 10, 2026 – reSET, Connecticut's nonprofit entrepreneurial support organization supporting social entrepreneurs, announces that applications are now open for its Spring 2026 Impact Accelerator. This intensive 3-month program will run from April through June with virtual sessions and in-person meetings in both Hartford and New Haven. The program offers growth-stage entrepreneurs the strategic support, expert guidance, and peer community needed to transform early wins into scalable, sustainable businesses.

Since its first cohort in 2013, the Impact Accelerator is designed for founders who have moved beyond the idea stage and validated their market through real customer demand and find themselves at critical growth inflection points. The Accelerator is an ideal fit for entrepreneurs who are looking for ways to include their social mission in their growth and also move beyond solo entrepreneurship.

"Too many talented entrepreneurs hit a wall after their initial success because they lack the structured support to scale," said Ndubisi Okeke, Program Manager at reSET. "Our Impact Accelerator gives entrepreneurs the frameworks, accountability, and expert coaching to break through that ceiling, while also helping entrepreneurs integrate their business’ social mission as a differentiating factor in the marketplace.”

During the three month program, participants will engage in expert-led workshops that provide actionable tools for pricing strategy, customer acquisition, financial modeling, and operational scaling. Weekly peer sessions create accountability and collaborative problem-solving alongside fellow entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. One-on-one mentorship helps entrepreneurs apply these frameworks directly to their unique business context.

Learn More at the Virtual Info Session On February 19

Interested entrepreneurs who are curious if the Impact Accelerator is right for them are encouraged to sign up for the virtual Info Session on Wednesday, February 18 at 4pm at www.resetco.org/events . Attendees will learn more about the program, who it’s designed for and what to expect from the application process.

Venture Showcase Save the Date:

The program culminates on June 24 with a high-profile Venture Showcase, where participants pitch to an audience of potential investors, strategic partners, customers, and community, providing a supportive launchpad for their next chapter.

"The Impact Accelerator benefits extend far beyond the program. These founders are building economically and socially impactful businesses that give back in their own right. Our alumni highlight the access to Connecticut’s entrepreneurial networks as an ongoing benefit, bolstering their connection to reSET's thriving community of successful entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry experts," said Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET. "By the Venture Showcase, our participants have clear roadmaps for their next 12-18 months and confidence to pursue their next stage of growth and impact—whether that's new revenue streams, strategic partnerships, or capital."

Applications are open on reSET’s website at https://www.resetco.org/impact-accelerator and close the week of March 8, 2026. The program costs $600 for up to a three person founding team and begins with an in-person Saturday kickoff on April 11 and runs through June 24. Space is limited to ensure personalized attention and meaningful peer connections.

For questions about fit or eligibility, contact reSET at info@resetco.org .

About reSET

# # #

reSET Announces Pitch Competition Winners from Fall Food Accelerator and Floor–Plan Retail Incubator Programs

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:00:13 GMT

21 Businesses Participated, Gaining Valuable Impact-Driven Business Training

HARTFORD, CT – November 25, 2025 – reSET concluded its fall Food Accelerator and Floor–Plan Retail Incubator programs this month with two exciting pitch competitions, celebrating entrepreneurs building socially impactful food and retail businesses in Connecticut.

"These entrepreneurs represent the creativity, resilience, and community impact that reSET holds at the core of our work to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses," said Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. "Whether they're bringing innovative flavors to our tables or creating meaningful retail experiences, each participant has worked tremendously hard to develop their business skills and prepare to scale their ventures, and we’re thrilled to showcase their ventures."

Food Accelerator Foodie Demo Day Winners

At Parkville Market on Monday November 10, attendees sampled dishes and watched live pitches from 11 Food Accelerator businesses before voting for their favorites. Winning the top spots from the audience vote were:

Suleman "Sully" Dode of Paki Taco took first place with his unforgettable "almost famous" Butter Chicken Gordita Crunch.
Brittney Michelle Williams of Brittney's Famous Alabama Kitchen secured second place with a dynamic pitch and her low-sodium, high-flavor take on Gullah Red Rice.
Third place was a tie between Empanadictas , founded by Marta Bibiana Garcia Barrios, and Los Barbados , founded by Mark and Marisa Belgrave, who brought their fan-favorite fish cakes.

About the Food Accelerator

The 12-week hybrid program provided 12 entrepreneurs, representing 11 businesses, with hands-on business support, expert mentorship, and community connections through weekly workshops and implementation sessions. Topics covered include customer understanding, business model strengthening, team building, sustainable scaling, and impact storytelling.

The financial education component of the program this year was offered thanks to an educational partnership with Liberty Bank and Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC). Upon successful program completion, each entrepreneur is eligible to apply for up to $2,000 in small business grants made possible through funding from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. The top 4 businesses, as voted on by the audience, will split over $2,500 in cash prizes funded by the DECD and audience donations, to help further their companies’ growth.

Floor–Plan Retail Incubator Pop Up & Pitch Winners

At the Lyceum in Hartford on November 19, attendees browsed products and watched pitches from the 10 entrepreneurs graduating from the Floor-Plan Retail Incubator. Top vote-getters from the audience were:

Posh Paint , led by Candace Donaldson, took first place. The mobile paint party business has served the Hartford community for nearly a decade, specializing in interactive art experiences that inspire confidence, connection, and joy while partnering with schools and nonprofits for community impact.
Second place was awarded to Kobo Studio , founded by Hanae Ko, a female- and Asian-American-owned small business creating original cat-themed gifts with a focus on supporting cat rescues and community impact.
Third place went to TYLER CLUB 29 , founded by Lucius Downey, a learning academy providing valuable educational resources including books, applications, and games, with a focus on children's literature.
Fourth place was a tie between Bok Choy Studios , a multi-faceted art project helmed by Hendrick Xiong, a Chinese-American working artist, and Montage Station + Co. , led by Anne Powers, an experiential brick-and-mortar retail store in Hamden.

Comprehensive Support for Connecticut Entrepreneurs

The Floor–Plan Retail Incubator reflects reSET's commitment to supporting retail entrepreneurs who are building businesses that create positive community impact. Participants gain access to experienced mentors, legal and financial support, peer networks, and real-world opportunities to test and refine their business models. At the conclusion of the program, participants are eligible to apply for a $700 small business grant, made possible through funding from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. The top 5 winners, as voted for by the audience, will split over $2,500 in cash grants funded by the DECD and audience donations to help fuel their companies’ growth.

About the Floor–Plan Retail Incubator

The Floor–Plan Retail Business Incubator served 10 businesses represented by 10 entrepreneurs in its fifth year as a partnership between reSET and Hartford-based Breakfast Lunch & Dinner, a community activation studio. The three-month program provides entrepreneurial technical support to early-stage retail businesses, helping participants understand customer needs, define pricing strategies, address key legal and financial topics, access a supportive community, and prepare for new market opportunities.

About reSET

# # #

reSET to Host Two November Events Celbrating Connecticut's Next Generation of Food and Retail Entrepreneurs Making an Impact

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:56:06 GMT

Special Discount Available for Attendees Purchasing Tickets to Both Events

HARTFORD, CT – October 27, 2025 – reSET is thrilled to invite the community to two exciting events in November showcasing the innovation, social impact, and entrepreneurial spirit driving Connecticut's local economy forward.

Foodie Demo Day

Date: Monday, November 10, 2025
Registration: https://bit.ly/foodiedemo2025

Join us on Monday, November 10th for Foodie Demo Day at Parkville Market in Hartford for the ultimate celebration of Connecticut's next generation of food entrepreneurs. This exciting evening will spotlight 11 incredible local businesses graduating from the Food Accelerator program.

Guests will enjoy an immersive experience filled with tastings, live demos, and inspiring stories that highlight the creativity, culture, and community impact driving Connecticut’s growing food scene.⁠

⁠

Connect with local founders, community partners, and potential investors while exploring opportunities for collaboration. Plus, vote for your favorite entrepreneur with the Audience Choice award and contribute to the prize pool! Come hungry, network freely, and help us celebrate the future of food in Connecticut!⁠

Parkville Pop-Up and Pitch: A Floor-Plan Retail Incubator Event

Date: Tuesday, November 19, 2025
Registration: https://bit.ly/popuppitch25

On Tuesday, November 19th , celebrate the graduation of the 2025 Retail Incubator cohort with an evening of pitches, community, and commerce at Parkville Pop-Up and Pitch at The Lyceum Resource & Conference Center in Hartford.

Hear the business pitches and shop the pop-up marketplace, featuring products from the graduating entrepreneurs. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for the Audience Choice award winner who will receive a direct micro-grant, funded by your contributions and Investor Ticket purchases. Come ready to eat, connect, shop, and support Connecticut's next generation of retail leaders.

Special Dual-Event Discount

Planning to attend both events? Save with our special dual-event discount! Save $10 by selecting the "Dual Event Pass" ticket option on either event page. For more information please visit https://www.resetco.org/events .

About the Floor–Plan Retail Incubator

The Floor–Plan Retail Business Incubator is now in its fifth year as a partnership between reSET and Hartford-based Breakfast Lunch & Dinner, a community activation studio. The three-month program provides entrepreneurial technical support to early-stage retail businesses, helping participants understand customer needs, define pricing strategies, address key legal and financial topics, and prepare for new market opportunities. Entrepreneurs gain insights from industry experts, access a supportive community, and receive practical tools to enhance their business acumen. At the conclusion of the program, participants are eligible to apply for a $700 small business grant, made possible through funding from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.

About the Food Accelerator

The 12-week hybrid program provides participants with hands-on business support, expert mentorship, and community connections through weekly workshops and implementation sessions. Topics covered include operational management, financial literacy, and brand advocacy. The financial literacy component of the program is supported in partnership with Liberty Bank and Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC). Upon successful program completion, each entrepreneur will be eligible to apply for up to $7,000 in capital made possible through a grant from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development and a business credit line through Liberty Bank. Since launching in 2023, reSET's Food Accelerator has supported Connecticut food entrepreneurs in building systems and strategies to scale beyond handling everything themselves, with many alumni going on to secure additional funding, expand operations, and deepen their community impact.

About reSET

# # #

reSET Announces Second Food Accelerator Cohort

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:21:13 GMT

11 Impact-Driven Food Businesses Ready to Scale Operations and Community Impact

HARTFORD, CT – October 1, 2025 – reSET, Connecticut's leading hub for growing impact-driven businesses throughout Hartford, New Haven, and statewide, is proud to introduce 11 impact-driven food businesses represented by 12 entrepreneurs for its second Food Accelerator cohort. The three month program primes impact-driven food businesses to sustainably scale, hire and streamline operations. In collaboration with Liberty Bank and Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC), the Food Accelerator provides the operational management, financial literacy, and client development resources needed to increase their community and economic growth.

Save the date for November 10th, when reSET hosts Foodie Demo Day! Meet this new generation of Connecticut’s growing food businesses. Network with potential investors, customers, and community partners while sampling their best bites.

"Since 2019 reSET and our partners have served over 150 food entrepreneurs in our Food Incubator and Accelerator programs, and we’re excited to welcome12 more this fall,” said Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET. "There is so much happening in Connecticut’s food ecosystem, and we’re proud to support entrepreneurs looking to grow, scale and engage in new ways with their communities.”

"From international comfort foods, to private catering services, to plant-forward wellness products, the 2025 Food Accelerator entrepreneurs aren’t just building businesses—they're creating cultural bridges, improving food access, and reimagining how we think about nutrition and community," said Katrice Claudio, reSET's Food Program Manager. "These businesses represent exactly the kind of impact-driven ventures our accelerator is designed to support—companies that understand food's power to create positive change."

The selected entrepreneurs bring innovative approaches to food entrepreneurship are:

Brittney's Famous Alabama Kitchen (Brittney Michelle Williams) reimagines soul food with bold global flavors, through catering, private dinners, and immersive culinary experiences that celebrate tradition while embracing innovation.

Empanadictas LLC (Marta Bibiana Garcia Barrios) specializes in corn flour empanadas featuring traditional Colombian recipes.

Evjoy (Evelyn Castro) produces specialty baked goods focused on "true deliciousness" using locally-sourced ingredients without additives or artificial preservatives, founded after 19 years of baking experience.

Kayjun Katering (Carlene Obot) operates as a plant-forward wellness and catering social enterprise, creating gluten-free, organic snack bars while addressing food access and health equity in underserved communities.

Los Barbados (Mark Belgrave and Marisa Belgrave) brings authentic Bajan cuisine made with homemade spices through catering and pop-up restaurant experiences.

Momentum Spice (Alwyn Clarke) develops seasonings, sauces, and wholesome snacks, helping home cooks bring health and flavor to homemade dishes.

Mothers Moss LLC (Michael Johnson) focuses on making superfoods more accessible to promote healthy eating awareness.

Table For Eleven (Tiffany Walton) a catering company providing Caribbean-inspired cuisine that is well-balanced without compromising flavor.

Tamarind & Thyme (Chef Damone Johnson) blends bold Caribbean flavors with upscale, globally inspired cuisine, delivering unforgettable dining experiences—from intimate tastings to luxury events and street food pop-ups.

The Paki Taco (Suleman Dode) blends South Asian cultures with South American flavor, delivering unique fusion flavors to Connecticut's food scene.

True Serenity Tea (Patricia Callwood) creates luxury loose-leaf blends that merge wellness, culture, and elegance.

About the Food Accelerator

The 12-week hybrid program provides participants with hands-on business support, expert mentorship, and community connections through weekly workshops and implementation sessions. Topics covered include customer understanding, business model strengthening, team building, sustainable scaling, and impact storytelling. The financial education component of the program this year is offered thanks to an educational partnership with Liberty Bank and Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC). Upon successful program completion, each entrepreneur will be eligible to apply for up to $2,000 in small business grants made possible through funding from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.

Since launching in 2023, reSET's Food Accelerator has supported Connecticut food entrepreneurs in building systems and strategies to scale beyond handling everything themselves, with many alumni going on to secure additional funding, expand operations, and deepen their community impact.

About reSET:

# # #

reSET Announces 5th Cohort of Floor - Plan Retail Incubator Featuring 10 Emerging Entrepreneurs

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:35:59 GMT

Program Partnership with Breakfast Lunch & Dinner Supports Early-Stage Retail Businesses with Social Impact Focus

Hartford, CT – Monday, September 22, 2025 – reSET, Connecticut's leading hub for growing impact-driven businesses throughout Hartford, New Haven, and statewide, is proud to introduce the ten businesses participating in the fifth cohort of the Floor–Plan Retail Incubator this fall. The program, offered in partnership with Hartford-based Breakfast Lunch & Dinner, equips local founders with the tools to launch, grow, and thrive in today’s retail landscape.

The Incubator will culminate in a public Pop Up and Pitch event on November 19 in Hartford where the community can meet these innovative entrepreneurs and experience their products firsthand. Save the date to join us for this exciting showcase of Connecticut's emerging retail businesses!

"This creative group of entrepreneurs are building businesses that serve their communities while also reflecting the values of inclusivity, sustainability, and empowerment," said Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET. “This cohort brings the total number of retail businesses supported via the program to 60 and over 65 entrepreneurs since its launch in 2021."

"From children's literature to natural hair care, this cohort showcases the resilience, creativity, and social awareness that define entrepreneurship in the region," commented Ndubisi Okeke, reSET Program Manager. “reSET’s Retail Incubator programming is designed to get them ready for holiday sales and sustainable operations into the future, building businesses with impact.”

Comprehensive Support for Connecticut Entrepreneurs

The Floor–Plan Retail Incubator reflects reSET's commitment to supporting entrepreneurs who are building businesses that create positive community impact. Participants gain access to experienced mentors, legal and financial support, peer networks, and real-world opportunities to test and refine their business models. At the conclusion of the program, participants are eligible to apply for a $700 small business grant, made possible through funding from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.

Introducing The Ten Businesses in This Year's Floor–Plan Retail Incubator:

Lainverse , founded by Elaine Bertram, is an alternative vegan candle brand focused on sustainability and inclusivity.

Posh Paint , led by Candace Donaldson, is a mobile paint party business serving the Hartford community for nearly a decade, specializing in interactive art experiences that inspire confidence, connection, and joy while partnering with schools and nonprofits for community impact.

TYLERCLUB29 , founded by Lucius Downey, is a learning academy providing valuable educational resources including books, applications, and games, with a focus on children's literature.

Invincible Beauty LLC , led by Shian Earlington, empowers women through beauty, confidence, and creativity, offering beauty services, marketing support, and community-building, with a special focus on supporting women of color.

Beat by Aliyah G , founded by Aliyah Graham, provides professional makeup artistry and esthetician services, specializing in soft glam and full glam looks while exploring advanced editorial and fashion makeup techniques.

Hapinapi , led by Colleen Hudson, creates natural, concentrated hair tea brewed with 13 different herbs that stimulates scalp growth, detangles knots, provides hydration, and softens hair.

Kobo Studio , founded by Hanae Ko, is a female-owned, Asian-American-owned small business creating original cat-themed gifts including stickers, pins, magnets, tote bags, and tea towels, with a focus on supporting cat rescues and community impact.

Montage Station + Co. , led by Anne Powers, is an experiential brick-and-mortar retail store in Hamden, CT, redefining retail as a modern neighborhood mercantile that celebrates everyday life through curated goods, creative spaces, and design services.

Hey Valentine , founded by Cassie Valentine, creates and sells personalized, laser-made gifts available for quick customization and shipping through heyvalentineshop.com.

Bok Choy Studios , helmed by Hendrick Xiong, is a multi-faceted art project by a Chinese-American working artist, featuring donation-based art workshops, independent zine publishing, and Pay-What-You-Can graphic design services.

About the Floor–Plan Retail Incubator

About reSET

About Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner is a Hartford-based community activation firm dedicated to building stronger communities through innovative programming and strategic partnerships that support local entrepreneurs and small businesses.

# # #

reSET Food and Retail Programs Featured in Radio Interview

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 17:40:47 GMT

Listen in to the replay of John Voket of Connoisseur Media's interview of reSET Food Program Manager Katrice Claudio and Program Manager Ndubisi Okeke that aired on Sunday July 6, 2025. They talked about the reSET programs that are enrolling for the fall--the Food Accelerator for food businesses looking to scale, and the Retail Incubator for early stage product-based businesses looking to ramp up for holiday markets in Connecticut.

Listen here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8745230-reset-fall-program-preview

The interview aired on the award-winning "For the People" show on Sunday, July 6 on WEBE 108 FM, STAR 99.9, WPLR FM and THe VOICE of Connecticut and on the podcast.

Applications Open for Two Fall Programs Supporting Connecticut's Impact-Driven Entrepreneurs

awalsh@resetco.org — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:27:36 GMT

Food Accelerator and Retail Incubator Offer Comprehensive Support, Mentorship, and Grant Opportunities for Growing Businesses

HARTFORD, CT – June 17, 2025 – reSET, Connecticut's leading entrepreneurial support organization dedicated to growing impact-driven businesses throughout Hartford, New Haven, and statewide, announced today that applications are open for two comprehensive fall programs designed to accelerate business growth and community impact.

"We're not just offering business training—reSET has always focused on building a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem that helps businesses deliver on their social impact," noted Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET. "Since 2013 our human-centered approach to entrepreneurship has helped thousands of entrepreneurs across Connecticut access the tools, resources, and networks they need to grow their businesses with confidence while making a meaningful difference in their communities."

Food Accelerator: Scaling Connecticut's Food Businesses

reSET's Food Accelerator, running from August 25 through November 10, 2025, is designed for food entrepreneurs ready to scale their operations and amplify their impact. This three-month hybrid program serves businesses generating up to $250,000 in annual revenue, with priority given to Greater Hartford-based ventures.

"A majority of the entrepreneurs we serve are operating as a team of one. Our goal is to get small food-based businesses to build operation and management systems that leverage their expertise and lead to scaling." said Katrice Claudio, reSET’s Food Program Manager. "Our Food Accelerator provides the hands-on business support, expert mentorship, and vibrant community these founders need to build systems and strategies to grow beyond handling everything themselves."

The program is ideal for businesses with shelf-ready consumer packaged goods or established food-service businesses that are actively fundraising or building customer traction. We prioritize ventures committed to creating positive impact such as thriving-wage jobs and sustainability in the food ecosystem.

Participants will engage in Monday virtual workshops and Thursday implementation sessions (5:30–8:00 PM) covering critical business topics including customer understanding, business model strengthening, team building, sustainable scaling, and impact storytelling. The program culminates with Foodie Demo Day in mid-November.

Food Accelerator Key Details:

Application Deadline: July 10, 2025, at 11:59 PM
Program Cost: $450 (financial aid available)
Grant Support: Up to $2,000 in small business grants made possible through funding from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development
Virtual Info Sessions: June 27 (12:30–1:30 PM) and July 7 (5:30–6:30 PM), sign up at www.resetco.org/events

Floor–Plan Retail Incubator: Five Years of Launching Retail Success

Since 2021, the Floor–Plan Retail Incubator has been Connecticut's premier program for product-based entrepreneurs looking to launch or scale their retail ventures. The 12-week hybrid program, running August 27 through November 19, 2025, serves early-stage entrepreneurs throughout Hartford, New Haven, and statewide.

“We’re excited to be recruiting our fifth cohort of retail businesses, with programming designed to get them ready for holiday sales and sustainable operations into the future,” said Ndubisi Okeke, reSET Program Manager. “This program offers mentorship, training and support for growing businesses right here in Connecticut.”

Developed in partnership with Breakfast Lunch & Dinner (BL&D) as part of the Floor–Plan Retail Activation initiative, the program offers weekly hands-on training, expert mentorship, and real-world retail exposure opportunities through pop-up markets and digital platforms. Participants gain access to sales and vending opportunities in addition to accessing a $700 small business grant at the conclusion of the program.

The program especially encourages applications from Greater Hartford and New Haven residents, women- and BIPOC-owned ventures, and businesses seeking to serve local communities.

Retail Incubator Key Details:

Application Deadline: August 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM
Program Cost: $150 (financial assistance available)
Grant Opportunity: $700 small business grant for program completers who register their business
Virtual Info Session: July 9 (12:00–1:00 PM), register at www.resetco.org/events
Sessions: Wednesdays 5:30–8:00 PM, plus Saturday workshops

Comprehensive Support for Connecticut Entrepreneurs

Both programs reflect reSET's commitment to supporting entrepreneurs who are building businesses that create positive community impact. Participants gain access to experienced mentors, legal and financial support, peer networks, and real-world opportunities to test and refine their business models. Thanks to support from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, these programs award microgrants to each participating entrepreneur for business growth upon completion.

reSET's long history in Hartford, combined with its recent acquisition of the New Haven based entrepreneurial support organization Collab, enables participants to access robust partnerships across Connecticut’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem with convenient access to Boston and New York City markets, affordable transportation, and ample space for business growth.

How to Apply

Interested entrepreneurs can learn more and apply through reSET's website:

Food Accelerator: https://www.resetco.org/FoodAccelerator
For program questions, contact Katrice Claudio, Food Program Manager: kclaudio@resetco.org
Retail Incubator: https://www.resetco.org/retail-incubator
For program questions, contact Ndubisi Okeke, Program Manager: nokeke@resetco.org

About reSET: Founded in 2007, reSET is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Hartford, CT, whose mission is advancing the social enterprise sector and providing inclusive entrepreneurial support across Connecticut. In February 2025, reSET acquired New Haven-based Collab, combining complementary strengths to create a more robust ecosystem for impact-driven entrepreneurs throughout the region. reSET specializes in social enterprise — impact-driven businesses with double or triple bottom lines — providing coworking space, accelerator programs, and mentoring services that inspire innovation and community collaboration. To date, reSET and Collab have assisted over 500 small businesses to start and grow with impact, and reached thousands more through low-touch supports. Visit resetco.org to learn more.

# # #

CLOSED--Thank you for your interest

awalsh@resetco.org — Thu, 22 May 2025 15:58:11 GMT

Request for Proposal: Communications Consultant Services

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW

reSET is dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship with a focus on making a social impact. We are committed to supporting entrepreneurs and startups, offering various programs, workshops, coaching, and resources to help them succeed. In addition to a part-time and full-time staff of six, we work with a network of partners, contractors, and volunteers to implement our mission.

We are highly collaborative and believe that great ideas can come from anywhere and anyone. If you want to be part of a growing team committed to making positive change through entrepreneurship, we’d love to hear from you. A note on equity: we work with a diverse community of entrepreneurs, and aim to cultivate a team and volunteer network that is reflective of the community we serve.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

reSET is seeking proposals from qualified communications professionals for a part-time contractor position to support our communications team. The selected consultant will create collateral, execute social media strategies in line with our marketing calendar, and collect content to help tell reSET's story.

SCOPE OF WORK

The Communications Consultant’s work consists of:

Marketing Strategy Development
Maintaining and updating the marketing & communications calendar
Creating brand kits for new and existing programs as requested
Keep updated content pillars and focus areas for communications messaging
Content Creation & Design
Design marketing and communications collateral in multiple formats (social media platforms, website, CRM forms, video, etc.) using Canva whenever possible
Adhere to established brand guidelines for all design work
Assemble media kits for programs, events, and initiatives
Social Media Management
Plan and execute themed social media posts across three social media channels using Canva
Create content for program recruitment, events, holidays, weekly tips, and alumni features
Write engaging copy in line with the provided calendar and guidelines
Monitor direct messages for follow up
Schedule posts and engage with audience interactions using HootSuite and Meta
Email Marketing
Contribute to the visual and text drafting of the bi-weekly reSET email newsletter
Provide first draft layout and text for review
Additional Responsibilities
Assist in creating and updating an overall marketing calendar
Occasionally assist with video and photography needs, as time permits
Attend weekly check-ins and major reSET events

PROJECT REQUIREMENTS

Role requirements:

Proficiency with Canva, Slack, Asana, Google Docs, and social media scheduling tools such as HootSuite
Experience working in a remote team environment
Strong design and copywriting abilities
Understanding of social media best practices
Availability to meet during regular business hours and occasionally during evening/weekend events
Familiarity with social enterprise & sustainable business practices a plus

Budget:

$1,600 per month maximum
Position type: Independent contractor (1099)

RESOURCES PROVIDED BY reSET

Brand guidelines for reSET and individual programs/events
Quarterly updates to the marketing calendar
Key message points and calls-to-action for each program and event
Access to content library and past pre-approved templates
Detailed program information
Content approval workflow
Guidelines for engagement
Access to collaborators and stakeholders

PROPOSAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Interested consultants should submit a proposal that includes:

Professional background and relevant experience
Portfolio samples demonstrating social media content creation and design work
Approach to managing social media accounts
References from similar projects or clients
Availability and confirmation of ability to meet the time commitment
Any questions regarding the scope of work

EVALUATION CRITERIA

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

Relevant experience and portfolio quality
Understanding of social impact communications
Proposed approach and strategy
Value for investment

TIMELINE

Proposal Submission Deadline: Friday, June 13, 2025
Interviews with Selected Candidates: June 16-20, 2025
Consultant Selection: no later than June 27, 2025
Project Start Date: no later than July 1, 2025

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

Please submit your proposal and supporting materials to careers@resetco.org with the subject line "Communications Consultant RFP - [Your Name]"

For questions or clarifications regarding this RFP, please contact Amy Walsh at awalsh@resetco.org

We look forward to reviewing your proposal.

reSET Announces 7th Food Incubator Cohort

awalsh@resetco.org — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 14:20:02 GMT

Twelve Food Businesses to Present at Focus @ reSET on Monday April 14th in Hartford

HARTFORD, CT – (Tuesday, April 8, 2025) – reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, proudly introduces twelve businesses participating in the seventh edition of its Food Incubator cohort.

Since February, these entrepreneurs have been developing their food ventures via the Incubator program through customer discovery, market research, pricing strategies, building business plans, and navigating food-specific licensing and certification requirements.

"We're thrilled to continue empowering the next batch of food entrepreneurs through our incubator program," said Sarah Bodley, reSET's Executive Director. "This year's cohort represents an incredible array of culinary traditions and business models, from urban farming and beekeeping to vegan bakeries and cultural cuisines. Each entrepreneur has a unique approach to using food as a vehicle for positive community impact."

The program is facilitated by Katrice Claudio, reSET's Food Program Manager, with support from members of the Hartford Culinary Collaborative. Since launching the Food Incubator program in 2019, reSET has graduated over 92 food businesses, adding to more than 312 alumni companies across all of reSET's incubator and accelerator programs.

"This year's cohort showcases a remarkable range of business concepts," commented Katrice Claudio. "From urban farming initiatives and plant-based offerings, these entrepreneurs are not only creating delicious products, but also honoring cultural traditions and promoting sustainability. Our program equips them with the tools, resources, and connections needed to build businesses ready to contribute to Hartford's economy."

Thanks to a $2.225 million 5-year grant awarded in 2022 as part of reSET's participation in the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Grants Program to Support Small Businesses, reSET's DECD-supporting programming includes the Food Incubator, Food Accelerator, Floor-Plan Retail Incubator, and Digital Marketing Mastermind program. All of these programs award microgrants to each participating entrepreneur for business expenses upon completion.

You're Invited to Focus @ reSET: A Community Focus Group Event

On Monday April 14, the public is invited to experience these emerging businesses at the "Focus @ reSET" concluding event showcasing the graduating entrepreneurs, to be held at the Lyceum in Hartford. Following the success of last year's event, Focus @ reSET provides a unique platform for these food entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative concepts while receiving valuable feedback from the community in an interactive focus group setting. Tickets are available at www.resetco.org/events .

Attendees will sample products, review business concepts, and offer anonymous feedback to help shape these businesses at a critical stage in their development. This event not only gives participants the chance to influence Hartford's next wave of culinary innovation, but also provides entrepreneurs with important market insights to refine their offerings.

"Last year's Focus @ reSET demonstrated how powerful community feedback can be for emerging food businesses," noted Sarah Bodley. "The entrepreneurs received actionable insights that directly shaped their business strategies, while attendees enjoyed being part of the entrepreneurial journey from the ground floor."

The 2025 Food Incubator Cohort includes :

Aasaaska Foundation LLC (Aarvah Quinonez): An urban farming and beekeeping organization centered around inner-city young men.
Butterscotch Supreme LLC (Phyllis James): Providing decadent desserts including a variety of cakes, cookies, cupcakes, and more.
Char's Spicy Nuts LLC (Charmaine Johnson): Offering Jamaican-inspired spicy nuts with unique flavor combinations like Scotch Bonnet Pepper with Cinnamon Sugar.
Chef Vena Eats (Chevena Murphy): A catering service creating memorable experiences that connect the community through food, culture, and music.
Feed the Sol (Shenice Morris): Providing health products like sea moss gels and herbal capsules aimed at improving quality of life through plant-based healing.
Gullah Galz Kitchen LLC (Carol Ali): Creating plant-based dining experiences inspired by South Carolina and Georgia's "Low Country," educating people on nutrition and Gullah Geechee cultural heritage.
JA Spice Infusion (Sherri-Gay McEnnis): A female-owned business offering Jamaican cuisine with Mediterranean and Mexican influences.
Lisa's Kitchen (Lisa Watson): Providing authentic Jamaican cuisine with versatile culinary offerings from an aspiring chef and culinary student.
Pure Goodness Bakery (Alicia Fulvi): Crafting indulgent, all-natural desserts made with premium, non-GMO ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.
Reggae Roots Farm (Joanna Iovino & Keith Simms): An organic farm specializing in vegetables used in Jamaican cooking, natural remedies, and community food distribution.
Samba's Cuisine (Izolda Quinones): Celebrating Afro-Brazilian and Afro-Latine heritage through authentic, home-cooked-style meals and house-made spicy sauces.
Veegmyeats (Sheena Salvador): A vegan bakery creating delicious dairy-free, egg-free sweets ranging from unique flavors to classic favorites.

About reSET

With the integration of Collab's entrepreneurial support expertise, reSET has strengthened its commitment to providing entrepreneurs with impactful, rigorous business support using a compassionate, heart-centered approach. The organization prioritizes serving people of color and women — particularly Black and Latinx entrepreneurs — who face persistent barriers due to structural inequities, delivering programming that combines high-quality business education with leadership development to help entrepreneurs build successful businesses, create economic power, and shape their communities. Visit resetco.org to learn more.

# # #

reSET and Collab to Join Forces

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 13:36:23 GMT

The Combined Organization Will Amplify Entrepreneurial Impact on Connecticut

reSET Social Enterprise Trust, the Hartford-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing the social enterprise sector, announces that it is acquiring Collab, Inc., the New Haven-based organization supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs through heart-centered business services.

This strategic union creates a comprehensive and intentional approach to fostering entrepreneurship across Connecticut, centered in two entrepreneurial hubs of the state –Hartford and New Haven. With a combined 26 years working closely with thousands of entrepreneurs, the two organizations are highly regarded catalysts in Connecticut’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and are thrilled to join together to continue expanding their impact.

"We have been longtime ecosystem partners in this mission-driven work, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to expand our reach through this integration,” said Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET . “Joining forces with Collab strengthens our ability to serve more entrepreneurs with impact and achieve our mission through integrated resources, expertise, and networks."

“When we co-founded Collab in New Haven back in 2017, reSET was a true thought partner and friend for us doing similar work in Hartford — with an aligned vision of building pathways to entrepreneurship and opportunity for every neighbor in Connecticut. I am thrilled about this exciting next chapter, and eager to see the combined organization expand and deepen the support for entrepreneurs across the state,” said Caroline Tanbee Smith, Collab co-founder and City of New Haven Alder .

Expanding Impact, Extending Strengths

The integration of Collab into reSET brings together two organizations with similar approaches and shared values. Both have been dedicated to serving local, underrepresented entrepreneurs in a human-centered, holistic approach, and aim to assist entrepreneurs to not only be successful, but also to make positive changes in their communities and beyond.

Through the acquisition, effective this month, both organizations will continue serving entrepreneurs in Greater New Haven, Collab’s geographic focus area, and the Greater Hartford area, reSET’s geographic focus. The acquisition will result in expanded reach to serve entrepreneurs statewide and will continue to center equity and inclusion of traditionally underrepresented demographics in entrepreneurial spaces. The combined reSET and Collab teams look forward to tapping each organization’s knowledge base to offer joint accelerators and mentorship initiatives, and broader access to networks, funding sources, and educational resources for entrepreneurs served.

Since the launch of entrepreneurial programming at reSET in 2013 and the launch of Collab in 2017, more than 630 entrepreneurs have participated in the wide array of intensive, multi-week pre-incubator, incubator, and accelerator programs that have been developed and offered. Entrepreneur graduates have subsequently launched businesses in a broad range of industries and tapped into the expertise of mentors and advisors in Connecticut in various aspects of business operations.

Driving Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Opportunity

"By combining our strengths, we're creating a powerhouse of support for underrepresented and emerging entrepreneurs across Connecticut,” said Ginny Koslowski, CEO of EDC New Haven and Collab board member. “Our shared vision will drive innovation and positive change in our communities and will be a driving force in Connecticut’s efforts to enhance opportunities for new and expanding businesses across the state."

The Boards of Directors of both reSET and Collab have been instrumental in guiding this merger process. Ali Lazowski, Chair of reSET's Board , explains, "Our boards have worked tirelessly to ensure this integration aligns with our missions and values. We're excited about the potential for greater impact for our communities with a more streamlined approach. There’s no doubt that as energizing as the past decade has been for both organizations, the need to enhance a statewide pipeline for local entrepreneurial support and their communities remains essential to Connecticut’s long-term growth and success.”

“Small businesses are the heart of our state – fueling economic development and creating employment opportunities in their communities. reSET Social Enterprise Trust and Collab, Inc. have been impactful partners in empowering and encouraging our state’s entrepreneurs to reach their maximum potential. And now, through this strategic partnership, their reach and ability to assist entrepreneurs from all across our state will only grow,” said Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz .

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and their success requires strong support. I am thrilled that this new partnership will provide robust resources for underrepresented entrepreneurs in Connecticut, and I will keep fighting for strong federal funds to help our state’s small businesses thrive,” said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal .

Since its founding in 2007, reSET program graduates report generating over $30 million in revenue, raising nearly $19 million in funding and employing over 432 people. Collab, launched in 2017, reports that its alumni have generated over $8 million in revenue, raised over $3 million in funding, and have employed over 289 people as staff, part-time, and consultants. Across both organizations, thousands more entrepreneurs and business supporters have benefitted from new jobs, networking, coworking, workshops and events.

Long-Term Vision Advancing Connecticut’s Future

“Since the launch of the Small Business Growth Grant program from the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) in 2022, reSET’s work in close collaboration with their Hartford area partners has delivered workshop, programs, market opportunities and grant assistance to over 1,680 businesses," said Sheila Hummel, Director of Small Business at DECD . "We are thrilled to support the additional reach and expertise this union brings to further strengthen the support network for small businesses in Connecticut."

reSET initiatives have included Impact Accelerators, Food Incubators, Community Pitch Nights, and a Retail Business Plan Incubator. Individuals from Greater Hartford and across Connecticut have turned to reSET to help provide the expertise necessary to successfully launch their businesses. In New Haven, Collab’s Accelerator, Food Business Accelerator, and Groundwork programs are among the many offerings that have similarly assisted start-up businesses to develop the expertise needed to launch and grow. Both organizations have been integral in developing emerging food businesses and food system work and look forward to continuing that focus statewide.

To ensure continued, deep engagement in Collab’s hometown, the combined organizations have formed a new advisory board consisting of members with longtime connections to and love for New Haven. This board will play a crucial role in decision-making, maintaining and strengthening ties with the Elm City, and guiding new strategies to best serve the region's entrepreneurs.

A celebratory launch event is being planned for April 3 in the New Haven area to introduce the combined organization and leadership team, with the initial spring program schedule to be announced shortly thereafter.

About reSET

Founded in 2007, reSET is a nonprofit organization in Hartford, CT, whose mission is advancing the social enterprise sector. reSET specializes in social enterprise ― impact-driven business with a double or triple bottom line. In addition to providing coworking space, accelerator, and mentoring programs, reSET aims to inspire innovation and community collaboration and to support entrepreneurs in creating market-based solutions to community challenges. reSET’s goal is to meet entrepreneurs wherever they are in their trajectory and to help them take their businesses to the next level. Visit reSET | Where Great Companies Grow (resetco.org).

About Collab

Collab is an organization that aims to provide entrepreneurs with impactful, rigorous business support using a compassionate, fundamentally heart-centered approach so that they can build good businesses, create economic power, and shape their communities for themselves and their families. Collab prioritizes serving people of color and women — particularly Black and Latinx entrepreneurs — who face persistent and significant barriers because of structural racism and sexism, providing entrepreneurship programming that combines high-quality business education with a heart-based leadership development curriculum.

reSET Features 11 Entrepreneurs with 10 Companies Completing the Floor--Plan Retail Incubator

awalsh@resetco.org — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 20:49:44 GMT

Pitches and Products to be Presented at the Parkville Pop-Up and Pitch Showcase on October 30th

Hartford, CT – October 7, 2024 – reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, is excited to announce the ten businesses working in the fourth cohort of the Floor–Plan Retail Incubator this fall. The public is invited to hear their business pitches and meet the eleven entrepreneurs at the Parkville Pop-Up and Pitch Showcase which will be the culminating event for the program on October 30th in Hartford.

“reSET is exceedingly proud of the hard work that these entrepreneurs have put in to grow their businesses and contribute to the Hartford region’s growth and community vitality,” said Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET. “This year’s cohort is an incredibly creative group with a contingent of fashion brands, boutique products and experiential popups. We’re excited to see them engage with impact during the fall and holiday market season, and can’t wait to kick off the season with the Parkville Pop-Up and Pitch Showcase.”

Parkville Pop-Up and Pitch Showcase

The Floor–Plan Retail Incubator will conclude with the Parkville Pop-Up and Pitch Showcase on October 30 from 5:00-8:30 pm at reSET’s office at 1429 Park St. in Hartford. During the event, 11 entrepreneurs will present their 10 companies via live business pitches, a mini pop-up market and networking with Hartford’s small business community. The public is invited to attend and experience these exciting emerging businesses! Tickets and more information are available at: http://bit.ly/ParkvillePUP A discount price for early ticket purchases is available through Friday, October 11.

The ten businesses in this year’s Floor–Plan Retail Incubator are:

Anderson + Joy founded by Tricia Ross, Anderson + Joy is a handmade, certified vegan and cruelty-free bath and body care, pet care, and home fragrance collection featuring products that are free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and mineral oil.
Big Red Book Truck , led by entrepreneur Jennifer Wilder, is a mobile bookstore bringing a diverse selection of books to the community and making literature accessible and inclusive. With its signature red truck and Jennifer's red cowboy boots, the Big Red Book Truck inspires readers of all ages and backgrounds.
Ham Choi Market , named from a Vietnamese phrase meaning "always wanting to play and not work" which reflects the playful and carefree spirit behind this Connecticut pop-up shop founded by Valerie Truong. Ham Choi Market offers vintage finds and promotes sustainability through mindful consumerism and passing joy to customers as a friendly alternative to fast fashion.
K’Quema Play , Breaking away from the norm of fashion, K’Quema Play is a clothing line founded by Saint, and encourages customers to embrace and express their inner child.
MARS222 , Founded by Jovanni Celli and Olivia Oppenheimer is a Connecticut-born streetwear brand that uniquely integrates urban culture with music to create versatile apparel that speaks to the creative spirit of the community.
REIZER•CO , Features cut-and-sewn premium clothing, founded in honor of Ruben Johnson, who passed away from brain cancer at the age of 16. This brand exists to carry on his legacy and promote the values he stood for: embracing individuality and being true to yourself.
Sassy Black Yarns , founded by Lakisher Hurst and located in Manchester, CT, specializes in providing vibrant, high-quality yarns to fellow crafters. Each skein is meticulously hand-dyed in small batches, ensuring every product is one-of-a-kind.
The Zen Dealer, Through alchemy of plants and our inner selves, founder Arlene Torres strives to make the world a better place by healing ourselves and then healing others. The Zen Dealer cultivates little treasures to unlock deep healing and unshakable presence in your belief. It all starts with you!
Ulterior Motive , Founded in 2020 by Ravi Ajodhi, Ulterior Motive seeks to redefine luxury streetwear through artistic mediums and create clothing that transcends fashion and fosters a community of open-minded individuals who appreciate the balance between simplicity and complexity.
VAINCRE Cancer , Led by Shawn Trott, VAINCRE, meaning "to vanquish" in French, provides hypoallergenic organic cotton hats to boost confidence and offer comfort to those undergoing treatment. Each purchase helps donate hats to cancer warriors, supporting their battle.

Floor–Plan Retail Incubator

The Floor–Plan Retail Business Incubator is a partnership between reSET and Hartford-based Breakfast Lunch & Dinner, a community venture-building studio. Now in its fourth year, the three-month program provides entrepreneurial technical support to early-stage retail businesses. Participants work to understand customer needs, define pricing strategies, address key legal and financial topics, and prepare their businesses for new market opportunities. Entrepreneurs gain insights from industry experts, access a supportive community, and receive practical tools to enhance their business acumen. Through the Floor–Plan initiative, businesses are also connected into market opportunities such as Winterfair and the newly launched Know Good Place operating at reSET’s Parkville location.

About reSET

reSET is a nonprofit organization in Hartford, CT, whose mission is advancing the social enterprise sector. reSET specializes in social enterprise ― impact-driven business with a double or triple bottom line. In addition to providing coworking space, accelerator, and mentoring programs, reSET aims to inspire innovation and community collaboration and to support entrepreneurs in creating market-based solutions to community challenges. reSET’s goal is to meet entrepreneurs wherever they are in their trajectory and to help them take their businesses to the next level. Visit reSET | Where Great Companies Grow (resetco.org).

# # #

reSET and Cooperate Connecticut Announce Beyond Business as Usual 2024

awalsh@resetco.org — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 14:14:27 GMT

Sustainable CT Crowdfunding Campaign Launches to Support BBAU 2024, Gathering Innovators and Leaders to Explore Cooperative Economic Principles

HARTFORD, CT - [September 4, 2024] - reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, in collaboration with Cooperate Connecticut, an emerging statewide network committed to advancing cooperative economic principles and practices, is proud to announce the return of the Beyond Business as Usual Conference (BBAU).

This year's event, themed "Beyond Business as Usual 2024: Co-Ops and the Next Economy," is scheduled for Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the 224 EcoSpace in Hartford, with an online attendance option available.

"We are thrilled to bring back the first in-person Beyond Business as Usual conference since 2019,” said Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET. “As our state faces economic challenges that require innovative solutions, co-ops offer a model that prioritizes people and planet alongside sustainable growth. This conference provides a crucial platform for exploring how cooperative principles can shape Connecticut's economic future and foster resilience in our communities."

varun khattar sharma, co-founder and lead organizer of Cooperate Connecticut and who serves as reSET’s Co-Op Navigator Fellow, sponsored by the Cooperative Fund of the Northeast, highlighted the global significance of cooperatives: "This conference is coming at a crucial time for us locally, nationally and globally. With the United Nations designating 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives, we’re riding a wave of global recognition for the cooperative model. BBAU 2024 serves as a springboard for Connecticut to learn from and contribute to this global movement. It's an opportunity for us to showcase how co-ops are an important strategy to address local challenges as part of a larger, transformative economic vision."

BBAU 24 Conference Highlights

One-Day Event: Beyond Business as Usual 2024: Co-Ops and the Next Economy will take place on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at The 224 Ecospace, 224 Farmington Avenue, Hartford, Connecticut, with an online attendance option.
Registration: Visit www.connecticut.coop/bbau for more information, including the conference program and a growing list of speakers, vendors, and partners.
Diverse Attendees: The event aims to convene participants in local and regional co-op movements, including co-op members, developers, funders, investors, technical assistance providers, worker self-directed non-profits, grassroots collectives and coalitions, and the co-op curious.
Networking Opportunities: Attendees have the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals to strategize around building businesses and an economy that prioritizes people and the planet over profit.
Inclusive Environment: Childcare, Spanish interpretation, coffee, light refreshments, and lunch will be provided.

BBAU History and Funding Support

reSET held the first Beyond Business as Usual conference in 2010, offering an opportunity for business and community leaders to convene to discuss topics relevant to businesses beyond the usual frameworks. Over the years topics have ranged from impact investing and sustainable business models, to regenerative finance and more. The 2024 conference advances the Beyond Business as Usual theme by focusing on cooperative business models in housing, food and other sectors, to further develop Connecticut’s nascent cooperative business ecosystem.

reSET and Cooperate Connecticut are committed to making BBAU 2024 accessible to all, and to support this goal have launched a fundraising campaign with Sustainable CT, who will be matching all donations up to $7,500 through October 26.

To learn more and make a contribution that will help support growing knowledge about cooperatives in Connecticut, please visit: bit.ly/bbau2024 Funding support for BBAU 2024 to date comes from the Cooperative Fund of the Northeast, the Universal Health Care Foundation of Connecticut, the 224 Ecospace, and individual contributions. Contact vksharma@resetco.org for more information on sponsorship.

About the Organizers

About Cooperate Connecticut

Cooperate Connecticut is an emerging statewide network for people, businesses, and organizations interested in building, growing, and sustaining our local and regional cooperative ecosystems. The network exists to strengthen movements to build worker and community power and to increase local democratic control-or stewardship- over the resources we need to survive and thrive: land, farming, food, housing, healthcare, arts, education, and transportation.

Cooperate Connecticut is made possible by the Co-op Navigator Fellowship, a project of The Cooperative Fund of the Northeast, in partnership with reSET. Learn more at connecticut.coop

About reSET

# # #

Transform Your Business This Fall: Applications Open for 2 reSET Programs

awalsh@resetco.org — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 17:35:30 GMT

Transform Your Business This Fall: Applications Open for reSET's Retail Incubator and Digital Marketing Mastermind Programs

Hartford, CT – July 17, 2024 – reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, is excited to announce that applications are now open for two separate programs designed to help entrepreneurs grow with impact: the Retail Incubator and the Digital Marketing Mastermind. Both programs are set to run this fall, providing invaluable resources and mentorship to early-stage and established entrepreneurs alike. Applications close at midnight on July 21, with classes set to start mid-August and run through October.

“Both of these programs were developed because of demand from our alumni and local entrepreneurs,” said Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET. “The Retail Incubator has been popular with Hartford-area founders preparing for fall and holiday markets, or opening their own storefronts. We developed the Digital Marketing Mastermind to help local entrepreneurs build an online business presence and stand out in the online world.”

Retail Incubator

The Floor-Plan Retail Business Incubator is a partnership between reSET and Hartford-based Breakfast Lunch & Dinner, a community venture-building studio. Now in its fourth year, the program is designed to support product-based businesses in their stages of entrepreneurship. Participants will learn to understand customer needs, define pricing strategies, address key legal and financial topics, all to prepare their businesses for fall and winter markets. Entrepreneurs will gain insights from industry experts, access a supportive community, and receive practical tools to enhance their business acumen. For more information and to apply, please visit https://www.resetco.org/retail-incubator .

Digital Marketing Mastermind

The Digital Marketing Mastermind is tailored for entrepreneurs who already have a business and are looking to elevate their digital marketing efforts. This program will provide advanced strategies to boost online presence, engage with target audiences, and convert engagement into sales. Participants will learn from seasoned marketing professionals and peers, gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the digital marketplace. Entrepreneurs interested in more information on the program and application should visit https://www.resetco.org/digital-marketing-mastermind

About reSET

# # #

Nine Companies Shine at reSET's Venture Showcase

awalsh@resetco.org — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 15:46:38 GMT

Winning Entrepreneurs Split Over $10,000 in Cash Prizes at the Conclusion of reSET’s Impact Accelerator

Hartford, CT (Tuesday, July 2, 2024)-- reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, celebrated nine Impact Accelerator graduating companies at its Venture Showcase on Thursday, June 27, at the Connecticut Science Center. During the pitch competition, three judges and the audience awarded four companies over $10,000 in cash prizes.

The LAZ Impact Award first prize and $5,000 was awarded to Mimi Gonzalez, founder of griefsense. The creative duo behind Poem RENOVATION, Kelly de la Rocha and John Melillo, claimed second place and the $3,000 prize. Third prize and $2,000 went to NutriLab, comprised of team members Paula Perez, Ivan Riquelme, Nick Germano, and Jeremy Battye. The audience voted Pia Ainara McGrath, founder of AINARA, the winner of the Audience Choice award and over $1000 in crowd-funded prize money.

“This is the 13th class of businesses to graduate from reSET’s Impact Accelerator, and these entrepreneurs have demonstrated remarkable growth throughout the program,” said Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. “Social enterprise means many things - this cohort is tackling social and health challenges; bringing innovative consumer products and services to market, and across the board, are committed to an ethos of sustainability, inclusion, and impact. Keep an eye out for these founders; we expect them to continue to do great things.”

reSET’s Impact Accelerator is the only Connecticut business accelerator program that prioritizes identifying and measuring social impact alongside profit. Upon their graduation, these entrepreneurs will join a reSET Accelerator alumni community of over 150 companies who have participated since 2013. Collectively, reSET alumni companies have generated over $30 million in revenue, received over $18.7 million in investment and supported over 430 jobs.

Over the past four months the 12 entrepreneurs working on nine businesses have accelerated their individual business growth through peer feedback, mentorship, and one-on-one guidance from reSET. Jeannette Punsoni Dardenne, owner of the public relations and marketing company INGroup Creative, served as Facilitator of the program. An eight-member advisory board helped select the participating entrepreneurs and served as mentors, advisors and guest speakers during the program.

The 2024 reSET Venture Showcase was made possible with the support of our amazing sponsors: Platinum Sponsor LAZ Parking; Gold Sponsors PeoplesBank and MetroHartford Alliance; Silver Sponsor Connecticut Science Center; and Bronze Sponsors Berkins Family Fund and Liberty Bank. Snapseat was the photo booth sponsor for the evening.

Companies and entrepreneurs in the 2024 Impact Accelerator cohort are:

Ainara Designs LLC, is an innovative online jewelry brand revolutionizing the experience of motherhood. Their flagship product is a patent-pending, functional and customizable necklace that holds up a mother’s shirt while breastfeeding or pumping so that she doesn’t have to. AINARA's mission is to design a better life for new moms, one where function meets style. Because every mother deserves to feel confident in her new skin.

CT3D is democratizing consumer products by creating an open, consumer-facing platform for designers and product development firms to post their products. These products can be either entirely 3D printed or an assembly requiring additional components. CT3D handles all manufacturing and fulfillment, allowing designers to do what they do best: design cool products.

Eatz on Demand LLC , is a centralized delivery service that caters to working professionals who have limited break time and access to food options!

Fresh Start Pallet Products is focused on removing barriers to employment with education in the carpentry and construction industry. With our woodshop in Hartford, we teach and create quality wood products for customers in the community.

griefsense Join griefsense in supporting young adults navigating grief through our dynamic media and impactful events. Explore our approach by tuning into the griefsense podcast, which sets the stage for 'The Grief Sala', our Hartford-based conference designed to nurture young grievers through creativity, learning, and dialogue.

Hardy Enterprise is your one-stop solution for all your home needs. With our two divisions, Amos Home Inspection ensures peace of mind through thorough home inspections, and Hardy Home Solutions offers expert HVAC and appliance repair services. We will ensure that you are not buying a money pit when purchasing a home and that your home runs smoothly and efficiently when services are needed. Trust Hardy Enterprise for quality and reliability in every aspect of home care. Make it Hardy.

Nutrisoft LLC has developed NutriLab, a SaaS tool designed to assist food companies in determining the nutrient composition of their products. By entering the ingredients, it effortlessly calculates nutritional information, meaning the details found on the nutrition facts label of any packaged food. NutriLab serves as a pivotal SaaS resource that helps food companies of all sizes accurately determine nutrient compositions and create FDA-compliant Nutrition Facts Labels.

poemRENOVATION is a web-based word challenge used in schools to promote literacy, creativity and social-emotional learning. Students are presented daily with a scrambled snippet of literature. They select words that resonate with them, then move them around on a digital canvas to create something new.

Reframe: A Dry Spot is striving to create a safe and sober space to build community, in the heart of downtown Willimantic. With craft ready-to-drink non-alcoholic cocktails and a chic atmosphere, we're creating the space we want to see in the world!

About reSET

# # #

reSET to Host Venture Showcase Featuring 9 Companies Completing the Impact Accelerator

awalsh@resetco.org — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:25:37 GMT

Entrepreneurs to Present their Business Pitches for Over $10,000 in Cash Prizes

Hartford, CT (Tuesday, June 3 2024)-- reSET, the Hartford-based non-profit entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, will celebrate nine Impact Accelerator graduating companies at its Venture Showcase on Thursday, June 27, beginning at 5:30pm at the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford. The event is open to the public and tickets are available for purchase now at: www.resetco.org/events

The Venture Showcase will feature the companies pitching their businesses for over $10,000 in prize money, including an Audience Choice Award voted on by attendees and funded through audience contributions. Networking and tabling by the businesses will round out the evening, which promises to be a prime opportunity to see up-and-coming Hartford area businesses who are doing business for good.

This is the 13th class of businesses to engage in the Impact Accelerator, the only Connecticut business accelerator program that prioritizes identifying and measuring social impact alongside profit. Upon their graduation, these entrepreneurs will join a reSET Accelerator alumni community of over 150 companies who have participated since 2013. Collectively, reSET alumni companies have generated over $30 million in revenue, received over $18.7 million in investment and supported over 430 jobs.

"We intentionally selected companies for this cohort who are leading with impact, and as the Impact Accelerator has progressed, we are pleased to see their commitment to growing mission-driven startups,” said Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET. “Four companies in the cohort have partnered with each other on projects to advance their businesses–Fresh Start Pallet Products built custom furniture for the just-launched ReFrame: A Dry Spot, and CT3D did prototype design work for jewelry designer Ainara. One company, Poem Renovation, just won the ePoster award at the Yale Innovation Summit. This cohort is swiftly entering the Connecticut innovation ecosystem, and we are thrilled to continue the momentum and introduce them to the community at the Venture Showcase."

This year’s Impact Accelerator cohort can be characterized in several different ways: seven are women-owned companies, four are companies founded by people identifying as Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color (BIPOC), two are focused on increasing employment opportunities, four are focused on health and mental health issues, and three work on business capacity building and elevating diverse communities through skill building.

Companies and entrepreneurs in the 2024 Impact Accelerator cohort are:

Eatz on Demand LLC , is a centralized delivery service that caters to working professionals who have limited break time and access to food options!

Reframe: A Dry Spot is striving to create a safe and sober space to build community, in the heart of downtown Willimantic! With craft ready-to-drink nonalcoholic cocktails and a chic atmosphere, we're creating the space we want to see in the world!

About reSET

# # #

Focus @ reSET Celebrates Graduating 6th Food Incubator

awalsh@resetco.org — Tue, 07 May 2024 19:21:21 GMT

12 Entrepreneurs Successfully Complete reSET’s Food Incubator Program

Focus @ reSET on May 1 Showcased the Emerging Food Entrepreneurs in a Focus Group Setting

HARTFORD, CT – (Tuesday, May 7, 2024) – After two months of intensive entrepreneurial development, reSET is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of its sixth edition of the Food Incubator program. The culminating event, entitled Focus @reSET was held at the Lyceum in Hartford on May 1 and provided a novel platform for twelve emerging food businesses to showcase their innovative concepts and receive valuable input from the community in a focus group setting.

Guests in attendance were invited to offer anonymous feedback to the entrepreneurs about their products, services, and marketing materials. Focus @ reSET provided a glimpse into the vibrant future of Hartford's culinary scene while amplifying the talent and innovation fostered by reSET's Food Incubator program.

During the 8-weeks of the Food Incubator program, participants engaged in a comprehensive curriculum covering essential aspects of business development, including customer discovery, market development, pricing strategies, business plan structuring, sales and marketing channels, and food-specific licensing and certification.

"We are thrilled with the progress and dedication demonstrated by the entrepreneurs in this year's Food Incubator cohort," remarked Sarah Bodley, reSET's Executive Director. "They are not only passionate about their food businesses but are also committed to making a positive impact. Through our program, reSET aims to equip them with the tools and resources necessary to transform their visions into sustainable ventures."

Under the guidance of Katrice Claudio, reSET’s Food Program Manager, and with support from members of the Hartford Culinary Collaborative, the cohort worked on a diverse range of food ventures, including food trucks, spice and seasoning companies, event catering services, artisanal bakeries, coffee and tea services, mobile cafes, and bartender-led platforms.

"The expression of creativity within this cohort is remarkable," noted Katrice Claudio. "Each entrepreneur brings a unique perspective and culinary voice to the table, enriching our local food and hospitality industry. We are excited to witness the economic and social contributions they will add to the fabric of our community."

The Food Incubator is one of the programs made possible via a $2.225 million, 5-year grant awarded in 2022 as part of reSET’s participation in the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Grants Program to Support Small Businesses. reSET’s participation in this program has enabled the organization to provide vital resources and microgrants to aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Since reSET launched the Food Incubator program in 2019, over 80 food businesses have graduated, including this cohort, and are part of over 280 alumni companies across all of reSET’s incubator and accelerator programs.

This year’s Food Incubator Cohort entrepreneurs and their businesses are:

Ebonie Grant , Amy’s Sweet Spot - provides “treats with a creative spin,” a variety of delicious and creative treats made from scratch with quality ingredients to help create conversation.
Phyllicia Pringle , Exquisite Flavors - creates signature spices and seasonings which, combined with their private chef offerings, elevates meals to an unforgettable experience.
Karen Amaker , Good for the Soul Food - a mash-up of soul food and Jamaican cuisine using high-quality ingredients, and creating flavorful food with convenience and choice.
Evelyn Ruiz , Hasta Luego Friend - a mobile coffee service providing a convenient and enjoyable café experience, one cup at a time. Serving CT, NY, and MA communities.
Monique Sharp , Kama Cafe - an enriching blend of whole plant-based catering and cooking classes, bringing health and culinary education to the Hartford community.
Tanya Owen , Ladybug’s Breadstuff - bringing the magic of restaurant-quality bread straight to your table with wholesome, natural ingredients, offering a unique selection not found in stores.
Mark and Marissa Belgrave , Los Barbados - a vibrant pop-up restaurant specializing in authentic Bajan grilled goods and desserts.
Alwyn Clarke , Momentum Spice - a full-service catering company and spice business. They specialize in infusing traditional Jamaican recipes with a modern flair.
Sara Sutton & Maria Bergan , PachaMama's Empanadas - bringing the taste of Peru to local businesses with a unique B2B concept, supplying homemade empanadas to a variety of businesses.
Sasha Allen Walton , Sasha’s Whole Earth - a holistic approach to heal the mind, body and spirit with a wide range of herbal tea blends.
Samantha Dale , Spyc Babe Catering - brings the flavor & spice to every event! From catering to date night, expect to be amazed by delicious Jamaican & Soul food cuisine.
Khalid Williams , The Barrel Age - a bartender-led, beverage culture focused platform for education about the beverage industry, drinking culture, cocktails, spirits, beer, wine and mocktails.

About reSET

reSET is a nonprofit organization in Hartford, CT, dedicated to advancing the social enterprise sector. Specializing in impact-driven businesses with a double or triple bottom line, reSET provides coworking space, accelerator programs, mentoring, and community collaboration opportunities to support entrepreneurs in creating market-based solutions to community challenges. Visit reSET | Where Great Companies Grow (resetco.org).

# # #

reSET Launches 6th Food Incubator Cohort

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 18:09:28 GMT

Twelve Early Stage Food Companies Engage in reSET’s Two-Month Program to Grow Their Food Businesses

HARTFORD, CT – (Tuesday, March 26, 2024) – reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, is proud to announce the twelve participating businesses in the sixth edition of its Food Incubator cohort.

The Food Incubator program provides expertise and time for entrepreneurially-minded people to take the seed of a food idea and create a new business. Starting in March, the entrepreneurs are developing their food businesses by exploring customer discovery, market development, pricing their products, business plan structuring, sales and marketing channels, and food-specific licensing and certification.

"reSET is excited to continue our work with new food entrepreneurs in this year's outstanding cohort," said Sarah Bodley, reSET's Executive Director. "We seek out entrepreneurs who have an interest in making positive change through their business. Food entrepreneurs we speak with are already thinking deeply about their environmental and cultural impact, and we aim to help them navigate the essential steps of business development, to grow with intention."

The program is facilitated by Katrice Claudio, reSET’s Food Program Manager, with assistance from members of the Hartford Culinary Collaborative. Since the launch of the Food Incubator program in 2019, reSET has graduated over 70 food businesses, adding to over 270 alumni companies across all of reSET’s incubator and accelerator programs.

"We have gathered entrepreneurs with an impressive range of ideas from catering, food trucks, spice blends and seasoning products, a coffee truck, bakers, breadmakers, bartenders, and more, who are looking to bring their unique food ventures to life,” commented Katrice Claudio, Food Program Manager. “Our program is designed to provide the guidance, resources, and mentorship needed to navigate the complexities of the food industry and build sustainable businesses with a meaningful social mission. I look forward to the significant impact in the culinary landscape that this cohort will make, while also contributing positively to our community's economic and social fabric."

Thanks to a $2.225 million 5-year grant awarded in 2022 as part of reSET’s participation in the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Grants Program to Support Small Businesses, reSET’s DECD-supporting programming includes the Food Incubator, Food Accelerator, Floor–Plan Retail Incubator, and Digital Marketing Mastermind program. All of these programs award microgrants to each participating entrepreneur for business expenses upon completion of the programs.

Save the Date to Meet the Food Incubator Entrepreneurs!

On May 1, the public is invited to experience these emerging businesses at the “Focus @ reSET” concluding event showcasing the graduating businesses, to be held at the Lyceum in Hartford. Event attendees will have a chance to support and shape the growth of these new veneers by offering feedback and serving as a focus group for the new food entrepreneurs. Tickets and more information are available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/far-focus-at-reset-tickets-871788361457?aff=oddtdtcreator

Entrepreneurs in the 2024 Food Incubator Are:

Sasha Allen Walton, Sasha’s Whole Earth, (@ sashaswholeearth ) provides a holistic approach to herbal tea blends that offer healing to the mind, body and spirit.

Karen Amaker, Good for the Soul Food, a food truck specializing in soul food and Jamaican cuisine.

Mark and Marissa Belgrave, Los Barbados, (@ losbarbados2021) a pop-up restaurant specializing in authentic Bajan grilled goods and desserts.

Sara Sutton & Maria Bergan, Pachamama’s Empanadas, offering crispy empanada treats in the palm of your hand.

Alwyn Clarke, Momentum Spice, (@ momentumspice ) is a spice and seasoning company.

Samantha Dale, Spyc Babe Catering, (@ spycbabe ) offers event catering, meal prep and date night services. Specializing in West Indian and Soul food cuisine that is far from traditional and packed with flavor.

Ebonie Grant, Amy’s Sweet Spot, (@ amy_sweet_spot) offers sweet treats and custom cakes.

Tanya Owen, Ladybug’s Breadstuff, (@ ladybugs_breadstuff ) a mobile bread bakery offering focaccia, French breads, cinnamon swirl, cinnamon rolls, Swedish donuts and other bread treats.

Phyllicia Pringle, Exquisite Flavors,(@ exquisiteflavorsct) creates signature spices and seasonings which, combined with their private chef offerings, elevates meals to an unforgettable experience.

Evelyn Ruiz, Hasta Luego Friend, (@ hastaluegofriend_) a mobile coffee service bringing the cafe experience directly to you for events and private gatherings.

Monique Sharp, Kama Cafe Community Park, (@ theveganizerconsultant ) enriches lives through plant-based cuisine, urban agriculture and communal gatherings in the heart of the city, inviting all to gather, grow and thrive together.

Khalid Williams, The Barrel Age, (@ thebarrelage ) a bartender-led, beverage culture focused platform for education about the beverage industry, drinking culture, cocktails, spirits, beer, wine and mocktails.

About reSET

# # #

reSET Announces 13th Impact Accelerator Cohort

awalsh@resetco.org — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 20:37:47 GMT

Ten Businesses Working for Good in Greater Hartford

–Join reSET for the Accelerator Kick-Off Party on Thursday March 14 from 5:30-7:30pm–

Hartford, CT, March 6, 2024 – reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, announced the acceptance of ten Connecticut-based startups into its 2024 Impact Accelerator. A public kick-off event including the opportunity to meet these up-and-coming businesses is planned for March 14 at reSET’s offices in the Parkville section of Hartford.

This is the 13th class of businesses to engage in the Impact Accelerator, the only Connecticut business accelerator program that prioritizes identifying and measuring social impact alongside profit.

Over the next four months the ten businesses will work together to accelerate individual business growth through peer feedback, mentorship, and one-on-one guidance from reSET. Jeannette Punsoni Dardenne, owner of the public relations and marketing company INGroup Creative, will be the Facilitator of the program.

“In our company selection process, we look for founders who are thinking creatively about how they can solve real social or environmental issues through their business,” said Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. “This year’s class of companies is working on impactful solutions across an impressively broad range, from consumer products that include job training, to creative uses of technology with broad appeal. We are thrilled to be working with all of them and excited to introduce them to the broader community in the coming months.”

To assist in selecting this year’s cohort, reSET recruited an Advisory Board that will also provide mentorship and expertise to the businesses throughout the accelerator program. This year’s Advisory Board is:

• Rache Brand, Star Strong Capital

• Kenyetta Banks, Women’s Business Development Council

• Paul Silva, River Valley Investors

• Ramon Peralta, Peralta Designs

• Melissa-Sue John, Lauren Simone Publishing and reSET Alumna

• Denise Whitford, Connecticut Small Business Development Center

• Dawn Leaks, Center for Inclusive Growth and reSET Alumna

• Christine Sullivan, Connecticut Small Business Development Center

Join reSET for the Accelerator Kickoff Party On March 14, 2024

Meet the cohort on Thursday, March 14 from 5:30-7:30pm at reSET’s Impact Accelerator Kick-Off Party! You’ll have the opportunity to hear each startup give a one minute pitch highlighting their plan for growth and impact, meet Advisory Board members and the reSET team, and join us to welcome the entrepreneurs to Hartford as they build their companies in CT’s capital. RSVP today!

The program will culminate in the Venture Showcase in June when the entrepreneurs will share their updated business plans and vision for growth in front of an audience of investors, collaborators, mentors, and more. Accepted participants are given access to reSET’s coworking space located in Parkville to be used as a place of business during the program.

Companies and entrepreneurs selected for the 2024 cohort are:

Ainara Designs LLC, featuring a patent-pending necklace to aid breastfeeding parents.

CT3D , seeks to revolutionize consumer products with generative design, additive manufacturing and on-demand manufacturing services.

Eatz on Demand LLC , offering a delivery service from mall restaurants to mall employees.

Fresh Start Pallet Products , offering employment and training to individuals seeking to improve their lives with a future in carpentry and construction, in partnership with the community.

griefsense , a media platform designed to help young, marginalized creatives express grief, live with purpose, and honor memories.

Hardy Enterprise , a home services organization providing home inspection, heating and cooling services.

Nutrisoft LLC , creator of Nutrilab, a versatile software solution designed to simplify creating nutrition labels for the food industry and food science education.

poemRENOVATION , a web-based fun, daily word challenge and educational tool used to prompt creativity and self-expression, strengthen communication skills, build community and instill confidence.

Reframe: A Dry Spot , a cafe and retail spot specializing in non-alcoholic beverages and mixed drinks.

The BOP , a specialty coffee roaster and seller striving to do right by our people, from the coffee farm to the espresso bar by sourcing quality beans at a fair price and creating meaningful earn-and-learn experiences for young people in Hartford.

About reSET

# # #

Applications Open for Impact Accelerator and Food Incubator Entrepreneurial Support Programs

awalsh@resetco.org — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 21:01:18 GMT

Spring Programs Will Support Entrepreneurs Looking to Grow Businesses with Impact

January 8, 2024 (Hartford, CT) --reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, announced the opening of applications for two separate cohort-based entrepreneurial support programs to run this spring, as well as its first Community Pitch Night of 2024 for early stage entrepreneurs to gain pitching practice and audience feedback in a fun, low pressure format.

“It’s a new year and a great time to reflect and plan on your business growth goals for the year ahead. Connecticut is home to so many smart, driven people with great ideas - many of them hoping to make a positive mark on the world,” said Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. “We’re excited to open applications for both our Impact Accelerator and Food Incubator programs this month. Plus, we’ll be hosting a Community Pitch Night on February 1st for folks just looking to get some feedback and test the waters. This is going to be a fun season.”

Impact Accelerator

The Impact Accelerator is Connecticut’s longest-running accelerator program, having started in 2013. It is a transformational experience designed for entrepreneurs seeking to solve a social, environmental, cultural, or economic problem either directly or indirectly through their business. The Impact Accelerator helps entrepreneurs build a solid business foundation and support network and set the stage for growth. The four-month program will consist of in-person and virtual meetings that focus on understanding customers, competitive product positioning, and laying a solid business foundation to prepare for building and scaling the startup while embedding a social impact lens from the early stages. A strong focus of the program will include business mentorship, business pitch practice, and access to reSET’s extensive network and resources.

More details on the Impact Accelerator, including Information Session event details, program dates, cost and application may be found here: https://www.resetco.org/impact-accelerator . The deadline to apply to the Impact Accelerator is February 11, 2024.

Food Incubator

For early-stage food entrepreneurs, reSET will be running its 6th Food Incubator program. The Food Incubator curriculum is designed to help new entrepreneurs develop their business plan and elevator pitch, develop strategic marketing and branding, explore food business resources available in Connecticut and the northeast region, review licensing and regulatory requirements, and more. The program targets entrepreneurs in the early stages of launching and growing their food service (i.e. catering, bakery, restaurant or food truck) businesses, or firms developing and selling consumer packaged goods through grocery and other retail outlets. Offered in partnership with Hands on Hartford, and thanks to support from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, successful graduates of the program are able to apply for up to $700 in grants to support their business growth at the conclusion of the program.

More details on the Food Incubator program, including, dates, cost and application may be found here: https://www.resetco.org/food-incubator . reSET will be hosting several information sessions and events before the application deadline, including a virtual information session on Monday, January 22 at 5:30 pm. Any emerging entrepreneur interested in applying is encouraged to attend and should register via this link: https://bit.ly/reset-FoodIncubatorInfo . The application for the Food Incubator closes on February 11, 2024.

reSET Community Pitch Night

The first reSET Community Pitch Night of 2024 will be held at reSET on Thursday, February 1 at 5:30pm. Entrepreneurs are invited to present their business in a 5 minute pitch and get feedback from the audience on the business idea in a quick fashion in a supportive environment. Networking before and after will also be available. More details and registration may be found at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reset-community-pitch-night-tickets-791290219347 .

About reSET

###

Winners of Foodie Demo Day Pitch Competition Announced

awalsh@resetco.org — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 19:58:04 GMT

Four Hartford Area Businesses Win Top Prizes

reSET Announces Winners of Foodie Demo Day Pitch Competition

HARTFORD, CT (December 12, 2023) -- reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, staged its successful Foodie Demo Day at the YG Club at Dunkin’ Park in Hartford last Thursday, December 7.

Eight promising food entrepreneurs pitched their businesses and offered samples of their products to a panel of four industry-leading judges and audience of supporters. Four entrepreneurs emerged as prize winners, splitting $2800 in prize money in addition to the $2000 business growth grants awarded to each entrepreneur completing reSET’s Food Accelerator program. A total of $18,800 in grant funds was awarded to participating businesses.

“These businesses are offering thoughtfully niche products for the Connecticut food scene, some targeting vegan or gluten free markets, or unique catering experiences, even pet treats with a mission. We’re happy to propel their growth in social impact as well as business impact,” said Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. “Today’s consumers are interested not only in new products, but want to spend their money on businesses that make a difference. Knowing that a company participated in a reSET program helps to ensure that a business has a social mission as well.”

First prize went to Becky Tkacs, owner of Charlie’s Traveling Treat Truck , a mobile dog bakery that uses all natural ingredients, compostable packaging and supports rescue organizations.

Second prize went to Kleon Clarke, founder of Nyam Bakery , a local Jamaican bakery specializing in cocobread rolls and loaves, and bringing different flavor varieties and Caribbean-inspired sweets to the community.

Third prize went to Nicola Poplin founder of Pop’s Famous Guac which produces wholesome, preservative-free guacamole with real, whole ingredients you feel good about feeding the people you love, satisfies taste buds and nourishes the heart, body and soul of you and your loved ones.

The audience crowned Deirdre Brickhouse as the winner of the Audience Choice Award. Deirdre is the chief baker and owner of SweetHouse Creations , a Hartford based bakery that specializes in simply elegant treats that happen to be vegan and/or gluten-free.

“This is our first accelerator program featuring only later-stage food businesses. we’re thrilled with the advances each company has made throughout the program,” said Katrice Claudio, reSET Food Program Manager. “We are so grateful to our judges who reached back to offer expert feedback and tips during the pitch competition. Our entrepreneurs really appreciate the support!”

A panel of four leaders from the Connecticut food and beverage industry served as judges for the business pitches, offering feedback, industry connections and suggestions on market positioning. Judges were:

Alisa Bowens-Mercado is the Founder, CEO, and Brewmaster of Rhythm Brewing Co., the first African-American, woman-owned beer brand in Connecticut, and is a part owner of CT-based coffee brand, Rhythm Roasting Co.
Craig Wright owns and operates Craig's Kitchen, a soul food restaurant in Vernon, CT.
Gina Luari is a Connecticut-based restauranteur with several Place 2 Be locations across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Dallas, and most recently opened RAW*, a raw bar concept in the heart of Downtown Hartford.
Justin Morales is the owner of Up ‘n’ Down bourbon and is a hospitality professional with experience launching five local restaurants. He currently serves as the General Manager at Hartford’s Fire By Forge and was recognized as the 2017 CRAzies Connecticut Bartender of the Year.

The Food Accelerator program held virtual and in-person classes over three months, enrolling small food businesses ready for growth. The program included companies in the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) and food service sectors, helping them scale towards creating a sustainable impact in Connecticut’s food landscape. Four of the eight companies participating were graduates of previous reSET incubator programs, and all of the eight businesses are woman- and/or BIPOC-owned.

In addition to the prizewinners above, the 2023 Food Accelerator entrepreneurs and their companies are:

Artisianna is a woman-owned business launched by Anna DiMascio Flynn that manufactures fruit truffles made with fruit, nuts and seeds – just pure and simple ingredients mainly sourced from US farms.

A’s Artisanal, led by Antoinette Sappleton, makes 'easy fancy' a reality! A’s Artisanal is the purveyor of piquancies, specializing in gourmet food sundries that effortlessly elevate your dining experience. Whether you're sprucing up an evening salad, enhancing a charcuterie and wine soirée, or elevating your favorite brunch bunch, our products are the ultimate 'easy fancy' solution.

Lane Simmons is the creative founder of Smokin Lane’s BBQ & Seafood , specializing in southern style wood-flavored BBQ paired with traditional comfort food sides.

Narelle Thomas is the founder of K Cookies , a Hartford-based, Springfield-born artisanal cookie company that blends quality ingredients with exceptional taste. Specializing in vegan and gluten free cookies with sugar free and fruit sweetened options, K cookies makes desserts accessible to the allergen plagued and picky eaters alike.

The Foodie Demo Day was sponsored by MetroHartford Alliance, The Hartford Chamber of Commerce, Key Bank, with grants and program support provided by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.

About reSET

# # #

Eight Food Entrepreneurs Complete reSET's Inaugural Food Accelerator at Foodie Demo Day

awalsh@resetco.org — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 20:24:34 GMT

Tickets Available to Attend the Food Demonstrations and Business Pitches

HARTFORD, CT (November 20, 2023)-- reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, will showcase eight food business entrepreneurs completing the Food Accelerator program with a demo day and pitch competition on Thursday, December 7 from 5:30 to 8:30pm at the YG Club at Dunkin’ Park in Hartford. The event is open to the public with tickets available at: https://bit.ly/reSETFoodie

“These entrepreneurs are developing exciting new products and services that expand the food market in Connecticut,” said Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. “We’re thrilled to showcase them at Foodie Demo Day and introduce them to the broader business community to help them make connections that will fuel their growth.”

“During the Accelerator, the food entrepreneurs were able to work on their businesses, optimizing profitability and honing their social missions, which ranged from addressing sustainability issues, improving work culture by creating livable wages, to promoting cultural inclusivity,” commented Katrice Claudio, reSET’s Food Program Manager.

Thanks to a $2.225 million 5-year grant in 2022 as part of reSET’s participation in the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Grants Program to Support Small Businesses, reSET has expanded programming to launch the Food Accelerator, including awarding grants to each of the entrepreneurs for business expenses upon completion of the program, in addition to prize money raised from the attendees at the Foodie Demo Day.

The 2023 Food Accelerator entrepreneurs and their companies are:

Deirdre Brickhouse is the chief baker and owner of SweetHouse Creations , a Hartford based bakery that specializes in simply elegant treats that happen to be vegan and/or gluten-free.

Kleon Clarke created Nyam Bakery , a local Jamaican bakery specializing in cocobread rolls and loaves, to bring different flavor varieties and Caribbean-inspired sweets to the community.

Nicola Poplin founded Pop’s Famous Guac to produce wholesome, preservative-free guacamole with real, whole ingredients you feel good about feeding the people you love. Pop’s Famous Guac is dedicated to making a product that not only satisfies taste buds but also nourishes the heart, body and soul of you and your loved ones.

Lane Simmons is the creative founder of Smokin Lane’s BBQ & Seafood , specializing in southern style wood-flavored BBQ paired with traditional comfort food sides.

Charlie’s Traveling Treat Truck , founded by Becky Tkacs, is a mobile dog bakery using all natural ingredients, compostable packaging and supporting rescue organizations.

About reSET

# # #

reSET’s Floor–Plan Retail Incubator Entrepreneurs to Kick Off Hartford’s Winterfair Holiday Market

awalsh@resetco.org — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 17:38:46 GMT

Thirteen Emerging Retail Businesses to Showcase Their Products at Winterfair at Union Station in Hartford on Friday, November 24 from 4-8pm

HARTFORD, CT (November 17, 2023)-- reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, will showcase thirteen entrepreneurs who completed the third Floor–Plan Retail Business Incubator cohort at the ribbon-cutting and opening shopping day at Winterfair at Union Station in Hartford on Black Friday, November 24 from 4-8pm. The event is free and open to the public for shopping and meeting the entrepreneurs.

“This third cohort of businesses in our Retail Incubator offers an exciting mix of products, from skincare, to pottery and wood items, to fashion and accessories, and we’re thrilled to be able to open Hartford’s Winterfair on Black Friday with them,” said Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. “These dedicated entrepreneurs have worked hard to refine their businesses during the incubator program, and this shopping experience is a great opportunity to see them all in one place and get some things crossed off your holiday shopping list!”

Extending the partnership between reSET and Hartford-based Breakfast Lunch & Dinner, the community venture building studio and producer of Winterfair, the opening session of Winterfair will open with a ribbon cutting at 4pm on Black Friday, November 24. The Friday shopping session will exclusively feature these exciting emerging retailers who are passionate about making a positive impact on their communities through innovative retail businesses.

“More and more, holiday shoppers are seeking experiences that offer unique products that are locally made and support the community,” said Josh Jenkins, BL&D partner. “Opening this year’s Winterfair with a collection of some of the newest retail entrepreneurs in the community starts the holiday shopping season with impact.”

Over 12 weeks, reSET engaged the entrepreneurs in the Retail Business Incubator program that provided mentorship, resources, and education, helping these entrepreneurs refine their business strategies and bring their retail concepts to life. During the incubator program, business owners worked closely with experienced mentors and industry experts to develop sustainable and impactful retail businesses.

Thanks to a $2.225 million 5-year grant in 2022 as part of reSET’s participation in the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Grants Program to Support Small Businesses, reSET has expanded programming to include the Floor–Plan Retail Incubator, Including awarding grants to each participating entrepreneur for business expenses upon completion of the program.

This year’s Retail Business Incubator entrepreneurs have a unique vision for retail success with social impact:

Brittany Beans, a natural self-care enthusiast, is on a mission to teach sustainable self-care practices and provide health-conscious products for busy women through her company Whipped Shea Nature's Moisturizer . Her passion lies in catering to the holistic needs of the community.

The Chenet brothers (Dimitri, Ronald, and Stanley) along with their family friend, Alamin, are up-and-coming entrepreneurs focusing on innovative toy cars that come equipped with built-in Bluetooth speakers. These cars offer a truly interactive experience that combines classic toy fun with modern audio technology.

Cocco is a talented wood artisan from New Britain, CT. During the pandemic, he crafted a coffee table for himself and quickly fell in love with the beauty of wood, especially locally sourced hardwoods. From coffee tables to cutting boards, Cocco has turned his passion into a thriving custom furniture and home decor business.

Brandi Dawson, founder of Organic Essentials By Bee , turned her severe eczema into a passion for natural skincare. She creates all-natural, vegan-friendly body products one organic essential at a time.

Taylor Dennin, the creative force behind Crafted to a T , creates functional handmade ceramic wares that are as practical as they are stunning. From plates and cups to dresser knobs and jewelry, Taylor's work is a testament to the endless possibilities of this medium.

Justin Heriot is a lifelong collector of movies and music and a fixture in the New England punk scene. He brings that knowledge, as well as several years working for a record store to his own venture, Unapproachable A/V . Heriot specializes in physical media and merchandise, offering new and used CDs, vinyl, cassettes, VHS, DVDs, Blu-Rays, books, comics, and games, as well as streetwear and other merchandise.

Alison Kennedy, a fashion aficionado and travel enthusiast, is the creative mind behind PALM Resort Wear . Palm offers a collection of handbags, hats, and resort wear that will elevate your closet and style and bring the beauty of vacation to life.

Sade Nicole started sewing in her late teens with just a machine and YouTube. Today, her women’s ready-to-wear line is known for its vibrancy and femininity. With each garment, Sade Nicole brings sophistication and style to any wardrobe.

Oddette Staple-Brown, founded Oh D'Luxe Candle Company during the pandemic, when she had the time to pursue her passion for candle making. Oh D'Luxe offers eco-friendly, vegan, non-toxic, cruelty-free, and sustainable candles and room sprays, made with unique, in-house blended fragrances.

Ally Switzgable is the fashion guru behind Ally Bea , an online and pop-up women's boutique. With a lifelong passion for fashion, Ally curates outfits that make you feel great. From unique finds to closet staples, Ally Bea has got you covered.

Terri-Ann Williams is a skilled Herbalist in Hartford who founded Natura Sol Medisun to promote balance within the mind, body, and spirit through the use of Herbal remedies. Her extensive experience with Herbs inspired her to use various Holistic Healing modalities to encourage a lifestyle deeply rooted in our connection to nature.

Sarah Wollman founded Eunoia Uncommon - a mobile handmade goods retail shop. Eunoia, meaning beautiful thinking, connects local artists and makers with the community, providing an avenue to showcase their talents. Sarah's vision reminds us of the importance of supporting our neighbors, especially at a time when global connections dominate our attention.

Dakotah Zaskey, founder of Glass House , draws on his graphic design background and screen printing skills to create eco-friendly clothing that's inspired by the natural world. With a fun and professional approach, Dakotah is redefining sustainable fashion for a new generation.

About reSET

About Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Winterfair: Hartford’s Holiday Market (winterfairhartford.com ) is hosted by Hartford-based community venture building studio, Breakfast Lunch & Dinner. The studio’s vision is to bring about collective culture in the region. The studio has worked on projects and events including KNOW GOOD Market, KNOW GOOD Nights, and First Night Hartford. Winterfair is part of the studio’s Floor–Plan retail activation initiative which aims to develop a local, modern, and robust retail community in Hartford by supporting local, small businesses. This multifaceted project is a collective effort between various Hartford-based community partners to transform the vitality of our city’s retail and small businesses, including a technical assistance retail incubator program with reSET Social Enterprise Trust, an incubator store in store at Semilla Cafe + Studio, and an e-commerce platform in partnership with Cafeteria Media. The program beneficiaries are largely Hartford-based, small, local business owners with an emphasis on Hartford residents, minority-owned businesses, as well as businesses owned by low to moderate-income individuals. The retail community the program seeks to support aims to reflect the diverse demographics of Hartford by supporting Black, and Hispanic business owners.

# # #

reSET Launches Pilot Food Accelerator Program

awalsh@resetco.org — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 19:44:28 GMT

Empowering Food Entrepreneurs to Drive Positive Social Impact

Hartford, CT - October 5, 2023 — reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, is proud to announce the nine Connecticut food entrepreneurs who have been selected to participate in its inaugural Food Accelerator program.

The Food Accelerator program spans three months and caters to small food businesses. The program includes companies in the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) and food service sectors, helping them scale towards creating a sustainable impact in Connecticut’s food landscape.

During the Accelerator, small business food entrepreneurs have an opportunity to further develop their businesses, optimize profitability, and develop their social missions, which can be as varied as addressing sustainability issues, improving health, improved work culture, creating livable wages, and increasing community inclusivity.

"In Connecticut, the food service industry employs nearly 10% of our workforce and we have experienced a constant and growing demand for support among new food entrepreneurs over the last few years,” says Sarah Bodley, reSET Executive Director. “Food businesses hold great potential and responsibility to their workers, communities, and the environment. Through this program, reSET is proud to support these entrepreneurs in realizing their sustainable food future, nourishing our communities and protecting the environment."

Thanks to a $2.225 million 5-year grant in 2022 as part of reSET’s participation in the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Grants Program to Support Small Businesses, reSET has not only expanded programming to launch this Food Accelerator, but will be awarding $2,000 grants to each of the entrepreneurs for business expenses upon completion of the program.

“This pilot Food Accelerator program is designed to address issues that are at the forefront of entrepreneurs’ challenges as they grow their businesses–how to scale with intention, price their products in a competitive environment, and plan staffing for growth and sustainability,” said Katrice Claudio, Food Program Manager at reSET. “We’re excited to welcome into the Accelerator four business owners who have participated in previous reSET programs as well as five new reSET entrepreneurs.”

The program will culminate with a public Pitch event and Demo Day in early December when these nine founders will pitch their businesses and provide samples to an audience of potential investors, buyers, partners, and community members.

The 2023 Food Accelerator entrepreneurs and their companies are:

Deirdre Brickhouse is the chief baker and owner of SweetHouse Creations , a Hartford based bakery that specializes in simply elegant treats that happen to be vegan and/or gluten-free.

Kleon Clarke created Nyam Bakery , a local Jamaican bakery specializing in cocobread rolls and loaves, to bring different flavor varieties and Caribbean-inspired sweets to the community.

Phyllicia Pringle is a personal chef and founder of Exquisite Flavors , a full-service catering company featuring healthy Caribbean fusion flavors.

Lane Simmons is the creative founder of Smokin Lane’s BBQ & Seafood , specializing in southern style wood-flavored BBQ paired with traditional comfort food sides.

Charlie’s Traveling Treat Truck , founded by Becky Tkacs, is a mobile dog bakery using all natural ingredients, compostable packaging and supports rescue organizations.

About reSET

# # #

Cooperate Connecticut Announces Network Launch Event Highlighting Cooperative Businesses and Solidarity Economies

awalsh@resetco.org — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 18:56:49 GMT

New Network for Cooperatives in Connecticut Launches on Saturday, October 21

Hartford, Connecticut (September 28, 2023) – Cooperate Connecticut, an emerging statewide network dedicated to fostering cooperative economic principles and practices, is thrilled to announce its official launch on Saturday, October 21, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Cornelia Center, Trinity College, Hartford.

This inaugural event aims to showcase the existing cooperative businesses, mutual aid projects, and working-class movements throughout Connecticut and to bring together individuals across our cities and sectors committed to the growth and sustainability of local and regional solidarity economies.

"It’s abundantly clear that the current economic system we live under is not working for the vast majority of people and for the planet,” said varun khattar sharma, Co-op Navigator Fellow at reSET and co-founder of Cooperate Connecticut. “I’m excited for this first of many network gatherings designed to cultivate the conditions for economic democracy in the state of Connecticut and beyond.”

“As a regional loan fund, we depend on local organizations to have the relationships and knowledge to make the best use of our resources,” said Carolyn Edsell-Vetter, Program Director for Cooperative Fund of the Northeast. “One of our goals in launching the Co-op Navigator Fellowship was to increase capacity for the northeast's Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and migrant communities to meet their unique needs and aspirations through successful cooperative enterprises. Cooperative networks like Cooperate Connecticut help mobilize the experience, resources, and social power necessary to develop shared ownership and democratic control of local businesses, stable housing, and healthy food systems.”

The Network Launch will feature a range of activities, including:

Panel discussion
Information and skill sharing
Ecosystem mapping
Artmaking
Photo booth
Live music
Food and non-alcoholic beverages

The event is co-sponsored by the Cooperative Fund of the Northeast, reSET, the Trinity College Community Action Gateway and the Universal Healthcare Foundation of Connecticut and features artists, organizers, and entrepreneurs representing Arte Popular, Mutual Aid Hartford, the Tortilleria Semilla, the Semilla Collective of New Haven, Free Hart Closet, the Connecticut Tenants Union, the Hartford Press Co-Op, the Little Lion Collective, Sol Co, Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, and the People's Saturday School.

Interested participants must pre-register for the event by Saturday, October 14. Tickets are available on a sliding scale between $0-$100 and can be secured at this Eventbrite Registration Page . All funds raised will be directed towards supporting future Cooperate Connecticut programming.

About Cooperate Connecticut

Cooperate Connecticut is an emerging statewide network for people, businesses, and organizations interested in building, growing, and sustaining our local and regional cooperative ecosystems and solidarity economies. The network exists to strengthen movements to build worker and community power and to increase local democratic control-or stewardship- over the resources we need to survive and thrive-- land, farming, food, housing, healthcare, arts, education, and transportation.

Cooperate Connecticut is made possible by the Co-op Navigator Fellowship, a project of The Cooperative Fund of the Northeast, in partnership with reSET.

About the Cooperative Fund of the Northeast

The Cooperative Fund of the Northeast (CFNE) is a regional nonprofit community loan fund serving cooperatives and community-based nonprofits. Founded in 1975 by co-op activists and social investors to provide financial assistance to food cooperatives, CFNE now offers loans and technical assistance to a wide range of co-ops and nonprofit groups that share CFNE’s vision of equality, justice, and social responsibility. CFNE serves borrowers and partners from offices in various New England and NY locations. CFNE is a US Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). To learn more, visit wwww.cooperativefund.org .

About reSET

Contact:
Amy Walsh, reSET

awalsh@resetco.org

860-560-9120 ext.703

# # #

reSET Launches Third Cohort of Retail Business Incubator Focused on Fostering the Small Business Ecosystem in Hartford

awalsh@resetco.org — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:27:01 GMT

-Incubator Concludes with Pop Up Market Launching the 2023 Winterfair Market in Hartford on Friday November 24-

HARTFORD, CT – (Thursday, September 21, 2023) – reSET, the Hartford-based entrepreneur support organization committed to nurturing businesses with a social mission, is proud to announce the thirteen participating entrepreneurs in the third Floor–Plan Retail Business Incubator cohort. This exciting initiative is a partnership between reSET and Hartford-based Breakfast Lunch & Dinner, the community venture building studio, and aims to empower entrepreneurs who are passionate about making a positive impact on their communities through innovative retail pop-up opportunities and markets.

Sarah Bodley, Executive Director of reSET, expressed her enthusiasm for the program, saying, "At reSET, our mission is to provide entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need to build businesses that create meaningful social impact. We are incredibly proud to support and develop this diverse and dynamic group of entrepreneurs who share our commitment to driving positive change through their retail ventures."

The Retail Business Incubator provides mentorship, resources, and education to help these entrepreneurs refine their business strategies and bring their retail concepts to life. Over the course of the program, business owners work closely with experienced mentors and industry experts to develop sustainable and impactful retail businesses.

Program partner Breakfast Lunch & Dinner offers cohort members training on how to wholesale or consign products and how to effectively build their business at pop-up markets and vendor fairs. Through this partnership, cohort members have an exclusive opportunity to sell their products at the launch of the 2023 Winterfair Market on Black Friday, November 24 at Union Station in Hartford from 3-8pm, giving these retail entrepreneurs valuable exposure and sales opportunities.

Josh Jenkins, BL&D Partner, commented on the collaboration, saying, "We're thrilled to work with reSET and provide a platform for these emerging entrepreneurs to reach a wider audience during the holiday season and beyond, through the Floor–Plan initiative. The retail industry plays a significant role in shaping our communities, and by supporting these emerging businesses, we look to contribute to a brighter future for greater Hartford."

For the second year in a row, the program will be facilitated by Typhanie Winfield-Alexander, a Certified Life Coach, trainer, and Owner of Momentum Life Mastery Coaching. She is a proud reSET Impact Accelerator Alumna and a Class of 2022 recipient of the 100 Women of Color Awards.

This year’s Retail Business Incubator entrepreneurs each have a unique vision for retail success with a social impact:

Brittany Beans, a natural self-care enthusiast, is on a mission to teach sustainable self-care practices and provide health conscious products for busy women through her company Whipped Shea Nature's Moisturizer . Her passion lies in catering to the holistic needs of the community.

The Chenet brothers (Dimitri, Ronald, and Stanley) are up-and-coming entrepreneurs focusing on innovative toy cars that come equipped with built-in Bluetooth speakers. These cars offer a truly interactive experience that combines classic toy fun with modern audio technology.

Cocco is a talented wood artisan from New Britain, CT. During the pandemic he crafted a coffee table for himself and quickly fell in love with the beauty of wood, especially locally sourced hardwoods. From coffee tables to cutting boards, Cocco has turned his passion into a thriving custom furniture and home decor business.

Justin Heriot is a lifelong collector of movies and music, and a fixture in the New England punk scene. He brings that knowledge, as well as several years working for a record store to his own venture, Unapproachable A/V . Heriot specializes in physical media and merchandise, offering new and used CDs, vinyl, cassettes, VHS, DVDs, Blu-Rays, books, comics, and games, as well as streetwear and other merchandise.

Alison Kennedy, a travel enthusiast, knows what travelers need and has created The Alison Kennedy Collection of vacation-inspired luxury woven handbags and sun-hats.

Terri-Ann Williams is a skilled farmer in the local area and founded Natura Sol Medisun to promote balance in mind, body, and soul. Her extensive experience with natural products inspired her to use various herbal modalities and teachings that encourage a healthy lifestyle that is deeply rooted in our connection to mother nature.

Sarah Wollman founded Eunoia Uncommon - a mobile handmade goods retail shop. Eunoia, meaning beautiful thinking, connects local artists and makers with the community, providing an avenue to showcase their talents. Sarah's vision reminds us of the importance of supporting our neighbors, especially in a time when global connections dominate our attention.

About reSET

About Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Winterfair: Hartford’s Holiday Market is hosted by Hartford based community venture building studio, Breakfast Lunch & Dinner. The studio’s vision is to bring about collective culture in the region. The studio has worked on projects and events including KNOW GOOD Market, KNOW GOOD Nights, and First Night Hartford. Winterfair is part of the studio’s Floor–Plan retail activation initiative which aims to develop a local, modern, and robust retail community in Hartford through supporting local, small businesses. This multifaceted project is a collective effort between various Hartford based community partners to transform the vitality of our city’s retail and small businesses, including a technical assistance retail incubator program with reSET Social Enterprise Trust, an incubator store in store at Semilla Cafe + Studio, and an e-commerce platform in partnership with Cafeteria Media. The program beneficiaries are largely Hartford based, small, local business owners with an emphasis on Hartford residents, minority owned businesses, as well as businesses owned by low to moderate income individuals. The retail community the program seeks to support aims to reflect the diverse demographics of Hartford by supporting Black, and Hispanic business owners.

# # #

Inaugural Class of Connecticut Cannabis Social Equity Business Accelerator Entrepreneurs Set to Graduate

SBodley@resetco.org — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 18:49:59 GMT

Pitch Day, Business Showcase, and Industry Mixer Planned for 9/6

Hartford, CT and Oakland, CA (Monday, Aug. 21, 2023) – Connecticut celebrates a huge milestone for cannabis social equity with Connecticut Social Equity Council’s (SEC) inaugural Equity Business Pitch Day, Graduation Luncheon, Business Showcase & Cannabis Industry Mixer Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023 at the Norwalk Inn and Conference Center. The event features the graduation luncheon celebration for the first cohort of the state’s SEC-sponsored Oaksterdam CT Social Equity Cannabis Business Accelerator Program.

After a morning of pitches to cannabis industry investors the networking will continue with the graduation celebration luncheon, and the afternoon business showcase, both open to ticketed guests and featuring key members of the growing Connecticut cannabis industry, including social equity licensed cannabis businesses. Investors, interested companies, sponsors, and members of the public may learn more and get tickets for the Graduation Luncheon or the Mixer at: https://www.e ventbrite.com/e/690884081887

The day brings together many groups who have been foundational in helping social equity license entrepreneurs in Connecticut, spearheaded by the Connecticut Social Equity Council, including Oaksterdam University (OU), reSET, Arcview Capital, Minority Cannabis Business Association (MCBA), and the International Cannabis Bar Association (INCBA). Nearly twenty social equity licensed cannabis entrepreneurs will graduate at the event.

“Connecticut’s free business accelerator program offered to qualified social equity cannabis licensees is a first-of-its-kind among states with Social Equity programs,” said Ginne-Rae Clay, Social Equity Council Executive Director. “Connecticut’s program is designed for individuals who won a Social Equity License to provide them the tools to take advantage of their license and open their businesses,” Clay said. “We’re pleased with the technical business assistance and cannabis industry-specific expertise that our providers Oaksterdam University and reSET were able to share with accelerator businesses.”

"Any time a new, limited-license adult use market comes online, it creates the potential for outsized investment returns. This event will offer investors a rare opportunity to connect with multiple licensed cannabis businesses in one place,” said David Abernathy, Principal at Arcview Management Consulting. “Any investor thinking about participating in the growth of Connecticut's cannabis market won't want to miss it."

“We’re excited to work with our partners to bring visibility and investment opportunities to this hard-working cohort of entrepreneurs,” said Sarah Bodley, reSET Executive Director. “These innovative business leaders have worked hard throughout the past year, and this pitch opportunity gets them in front of key industry investors who can offer capital to help their businesses grow.”

“This trailblazing ten-month Accelerator Program has solidified the expertise of our Equity Entrepreneurs in Connecticut’s emerging cannabis industry, helping operators mitigate risks and positioning for long-term sustainability and success,” said OU Executive Chancellor Dale Sky Jones. “The one-on-one business pitch-building time with our deeply experienced coaches has made all the difference for our phenomenal cohort of entrepreneurs.”

Connecticut’s groundbreaking social equity program, launched in the fall of 2022, was designed to address the disparate impacts of the War on Drugs, help legacy cannabis operators with regulatory compliance and industry best practices, and help verified social equity applicants planning to start licensed cannabis businesses.

About Oaksterdam University

Oaksterdam University is America’s first cannabis college and academic institution to promote equity in the cannabis space, to lower barriers to cannabis licensing, entrepreneurship, and employment. With roots growing 27 years deep, OU is a dynamic, diverse, responsive academic institute dedicated to working locally to educate the global cannabis community, industry, regulators, and government. Visit Oaksterdam University - The World's First Cannabis Col lege.

About reSET

About the CT Social Equity Council (SEC)

The Social Equity Council was created to ensure the adult use cannabis program is grown equitably and that funds from the adult use cannabis program are brought back to the communities hit hardest by the "War on Drugs." The SEC oversees the verification of equity applicants, creates new programs to support cannabis businesses and businesses in other industries, and manages the more general community investments derived from the cannabis tax revenue. To learn more about Social Equity Council announcements, upcoming meetings, and adult use cannabis information, visit Social Equity Council (ct.gov) .

Media Contact:

Chase Roberts chase@oaksterdamuniversity.com

# # #

Winners of reSET's 2023 Food Entrepreneur Pitch Night Announced

awalsh@resetco.org — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 16:22:16 GMT

–Over $9,000 in Unrestricted Funding Awarded Across 11 Companies–

Hartford, Conn., June 12, 2023 –A packed audience of food enthusiasts and aspiring entrepreneurs gathered at the newly relaunched Fire by Forge in Hartford to hear the business pitches of reSET’s 5th Food Entrepreneur cohort last Monday, June 5. The event brought together 11 talented emerging food business owners who presented their business pitches for a chance at a cash prize from the awards pool raised from those in attendance. All entrepreneurs in the cohort also will receive seed grants of $700 as a result of reSET’s participation in the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Grants Program to Support Small Businesses, adding up to over $9,000 in prize and grant money.

After careful deliberation, the judges awarded:

First place to: Charlie's Traveling Treat Truck , a bakery for dogs, founded by Becky Tkacs
Second place to: Whisked by Dani , founded by Danielle Rasheed
Third place to The Cookie Maven , founded by Rachel Smith

And the audience awarded the Audience Choice prize to Danielle Rasheed’s Whisked by Dani, a two-time winner for the night!

“This cohort of food entrepreneurs came into the program with a remarkable range of ideas–from dog bakeries, to fruit caviar, to cookies and cakes, as well as vegan offerings,” said Sarah Bodley, executive director of reSET. “reSET is eager to support these early stage businesses as alumni as they grow and contribute to the economic growth of our region.”

The Food Incubator program provides expertise and time for entrepreneurially-minded food people to take the seed of an idea and create a new business. Over the course of three months, the entrepreneurs developed their food businesses by exploring customer discovery, market development, pricing their products, business plan structuring, sales and marketing channels, and food-specific licensing and certification. The program was facilitated by Katrice Claudio, reSET’s Food Program Manager, with assistance from Stefanie Robles, reSET’s Food Catalyst, and members of the Hartford Culinary Collaborative, along with several esteemed guest speakers. Since the launch of the Food Incubator program in 2019, reSET has graduated 73 food businesses, adding to over 200 alumni companies across its incubator and accelerator programs.

The 11 entrepreneurs presented their businesses to an audience of community, family and friends, and local leaders. An esteemed panel of judges consisting of Steven Taylor, VP and Business Banking Officer at Liberty Bank; Chantal Tafari, chef and owner of Amazing Ackee and Likkle Patty Shop; Sabrina Tucker-Barrett, Co-founder of Girls for Technology; Molly Reynolds, Shared Kitchen and Gather 55 Manager at Hands on Hartford; and Matt Sousa, VP of Operations at Parkville Market had a challenge to decide on the winners.

In addition to the judges, reSET would like to thank a number of community partners, including the Swift Factory for generously offering this exceptional group of women a discounted rate at their shared kitchen this year; Fire by Forge for hosting this memorable event; and to the event sponsors, Liberty Bank and PeoplesBank for their support in advancing reSET’s mission to empower the social enterprise sector in Connecticut.

Companies completing the 2023 Food Incubator Program are:

Patienet Carter, founder of RUMi Cakes , wants all to enjoy the delicacy of Caribbean treats as much as she enjoys making them from her heart and from her roots.

Whitney Evans, founder of Zone Ziyonne , a vegan food business working to educate eaters on how delicious vegan food can be.

Julie Gauthier, Snack Engineer and founder of Snackaroo Review , an early stage snack purveyor offering snack packages of fruit leather, juice caviar and sweet gems with produce that would otherwise go to waste.

Cherelle McDaniel, founder of Nicy Pies , which offers sweet potato pies based on a beloved family recipe and exploring business opportunities.

Beth Murphy, founder and sugar artist of BAM’s Sweet Treats, is a self-taught baker for over 20 years, she takes pride in creating custom treats that make your celebrations memorable.

Danielle Rasheed, founder and head baker at Whisked by Dani , who delivers and ships premium, baked to order cookies.

Lizzette Rodriguez, founder of Momma’s Boy Empanadas , an early stage business exploring infused and creative empanada flavors to be sold at Farmer’s Markets near you.

Ketevan Rogava, founder of Keti’s Kitchen , which uses regional influences from the country of Georgia to create dishes for a weekly meal delivery service with healthy, fresh and delicious meals for busy families.

Rachel Smith Walsh, founder of The Cookie Maven , a cottage food baker making handmade, craveable cookies with playful and unique flavor combinations, available at pop-up events.

Becky Tkacs, founder of Charlie’s Traveling Treat Truck, a home-based bakery for dogs that uses all natural ingredients, plastic-free and compostable packaging and supports local animals in need.

Ani Widham, founder of Secret Salad , a health food business that sells pre-made frozen food with whole food ingredients, starting with pancakes.

About reSET

reSET is a nonprofit organization in Hartford, CT, whose mission is to advance the social enterprise sector. reSET specializes in social enterprise ― impact driven business with a double or triple bottom line. reSET program alumni have generated over $25 million in revenue, have raised $17 million in outside capital, and supported more than 400 jobs. In addition to providing coworking space, accelerator and mentoring programs, reSET aims to inspire innovation and community collaboration, and to support entrepreneurs in creating market-based solutions to community challenges. reSET’s goal is to meet entrepreneurs wherever they are in their trajectory and to help them take their businesses to the next level. www.resetco.org

# # #

reSET Announces 12 New Businesses Engaged in its Fifth Food Business Incubator

awalsh@resetco.org — Thu, 04 May 2023 20:49:19 GMT

--Entrepreneurs Will Pitch Their Businesses at Food Entrepreneur Pitch Night at Fire by Forge on Monday, June 5th--

Hartford, CT, May 4, 2023 – reSET, the non-profit entrepreneurial support organization focused on developing businesses with a social mission, invites the community to celebrate the culmination of the fifth Food Incubator program. On June 5th, 2023 the graduates will present their new business pitches at Fire by Forge in Hartford.

“We were impressed with the number and quality of applicants this year, and the entrepreneurs in the cohort represent exciting food ideas that will expand the Connecticut food scene as they grow,” said Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. “Thanks in part to new program funding from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, we were able to focus this year’s program on early stage food businesses, while we gear up to launch a new Food Accelerator in the fall for more developed businesses.”

The capstone event of the Food Incubator program will feature the entrepreneur participants presenting their businesses at the Food Entrepreneur Pitch Night, starting at 5:30pm on June 5 at Hartford Culinary Collaborative partner Fire by Forge in Hartford. The event will be open to the public and will include a pitch competition for prize money, as well as networking and an opportunity to meet the entrepreneurs. Tickets for the Food Entrepreneur Pitch Night and event information may be found at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/food-entrepreneur-pitch-night-tickets-629407192857

The food entrepreneurs were selected from a competitive application pool, and this cohort is 100% women and half identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and/or people of color). Since kicking off the Food Incubator program in 2019, reSET has helped 79 early-stage food businesses launch and sustain their growth, including the current class. Business concepts being developed by entrepreneurs in the 2023 cohort range from bakeries, food trucks, frozen food, Latin and Spanish focused food, vegan food, snack foods, and even pet treats!

“This cohort is focusing on more early stage companies than we have in previous Food Incubators, which provides an opportunity to focus the material on the specific needs of early stage food businesses,” said Stefanie Robles, reSET Food Catalyst. “By participating in the reSET Food Incubator, entrepreneurs have a chance to start their business on a strong foundation, and we’re excited to showcase their wonderful business ideas to the community at the Pitch Night.”

The Food Incubator program provides expertise and time for entrepreneurially-minded food people to take the seed of an idea and create a new business. Over the course of three months, the entrepreneurs are developing their food businesses through exploring customer acquisition, market development, financing, business plan structuring, sales channels, and other topics on general business planning and food-specific topics. The program is facilitated by Katrice Claudio, reSET’s Food Program Manager, with assistance from Stefanie Robles, reSET’s Food Catalyst, and members of the Hartford Culinary Collaborative.

2023 Food Business Entrepreneurs are: