Larson Hosts Small Business Summit in Hartford's North End

For Immediate Release: January 6, 2010
Contact: Paul Mounds/ 860-278-8888

Hartford, CT-Today, U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) hosted a Small Business Summit in Hartford's North End. Congressman Larson called for the summit after small business owners in the region, specifically in Hartford's North End, expressed concerns with the current funding and loan opportunities available to them.   

Larson was joined by Jeanne Hulit, New England Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration and representatives from local financial and lending institutions to hear first hand from small business owners detailing their difficulties in obtaining the necessary capital to sustain or expand their business.

At the conclusion of the summit, Congressman Larson released the following statement:

"Today's summit provided an opportunity for the small business community to speak directly to the financial institutions and lending organizations, discuss their issues, and receive important business resources. I believe it was important for the invited guests to hear the stories from Main Street about the challenges facing our small businesses on an everyday basis.

"The concerns and the stories of struggle described by the small business owners are not isolated to Hartford, but are experienced by small businesses across the state and our nation.

"Our small businesses need assistance, and it's time to answer the call and work toward making a difference to help sustain our communities."

Congressman Larson recognizes the important role small businesses have in shaping the economic and social landscape of our communities. He remains committed to helping small businesses obtain the sought after resources and guidance. Congressman Larson's small business guide is available on his website at www.larson.house.gov or by contacting his Hartford District office at 860-278-8888

Below is a list of organizations that attended today's small business forum at the Rajun Cajun Restaurant:

Small Business Administration-New England Region
Community Economic Development Fund
Greater Hartford African American Alliance
Hartford Economic Development Corporation
Connecticut Bank & Trust
Webster Bank
People's Bank
Bank of America
Connecticut Bankers Association
Connecticut Small Business Development Center
The Entrepreneurial Center
Women's Business Center
Center for Professional Development
Spanish American Merchants Association Service Corps of Retired Executives