FORGE to establish Connecticut operations, offering free services to local startups

By Phil Hall

February 23, 2023

FORGE, a Massachusetts-headquartered nonprofit that connects startups with manufacturers, design firms and engineers, is establishing operations in Connecticut and will begin offering its services for free to local entrepreneurs.

The organization will be based in Hartford and operate statewide. FORGE’s establishment in Connecticut is made possible from CTNext and the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development through its Manufacturing Innovation Fund.

“We know the critical role manufacturing plays in our economy, and connecting these resources to the startups that are driving innovation will help keep Connecticut a leader through these sectors,” said Gov. Ned Lamont, who announced the arrival of FORGE at a press conference yesterday. “FORGE’s presence in Connecticut will set the stage for long-term manufacturing and business innovation.”

“Connecticut’s ecosystem provides a rich assortment of suppliers and advanced manufacturing offerings,” Laura Teicher, executive director of FORGE, said. “This complete, end-to-end ecosystem helps ensure a successful economic future for Connecticut.”