Gov. Lamont visits Bristol for announcement that FORGE is establishing operations in Connecticut, offering free support to local startups in manufacturing

By Jack Krampitz

February 24, 2023

Gov. Ned Lamont, visiting Bristol on Wednesday to announce a new manufacturing initiative for startups, recalled the state’s renowned history and said that Connecticut is where people looked for manufacturing leadership and now can look for the same leadership from a new partnership.

The partnership brings together the state, CTNext, Connecticut’s resource organization for entrepreneurial support, and the Department of Community Development (DECD) with FORGE, a nonprofit organization that connects startups with the resources they need to grow and succeed.

“We know the crucial role manufacturing plays in our economy, and connecting the right resources to the startups that are driving innovation will keep Connecticut a leader,” Lamont said. “FORGE’s presence in Connecticut will set the stage for long-term manufacturing and business innovation.”

The governor cited the rich manufacturing legacy of Connecticut manufacturers, including Pratt and Whitney, Sikorsky and Stanley Tools, not only at the forefront of manufacturing in United States but also of the world.

The purpose of the partnership is to strengthen the long-term competitiveness of Connecticut’s manufacturing sector. The announcement was made at press conference at Novo Precision at Dolphin Road.