🎉 Let’s celebrate our amazing June birthdays! Sending warmest wishes to our CEO, Fran Pastore; Business Advisors Tanya Kelley and Joy Braddock; Child Care Program Manager Nicole Papadopoulos, and Impact Manager Nicole O'Brien. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead. (fb)

From dabbling in design to founding CNCO Design Studio, Cindy Navarro’s journey has been fueled by creativity and purpose. What began in 2016 as a creative outlet—designing graphics and social media content—came to a turning point in 2018, when she volunteered to build a website for Jahana Hayes’ congressional campaign. The project's success ignited a lasting passion for digital design. By 2023, after years in congressional communications and nonprofit work, Cindy launched CNCO Design Studio to help mission-driven organizations create impactful, user-friendly websites. As a new entrepreneur, she turned to WBDC for expert support and guidance. With the help of WBDC business advisors, Cindy completed WBDC’s GPS (Guide to Plan for Success) course, secured a Launch Pad Grant, and later received a Waterbury/WBDC Small Business Grant. These resources allowed her to invest in upgraded equipment, professional design software, and industry certifications. She also began developing digital products and laid the foundation to expand her team in the near future. Thinking about applying for the Waterbury/WBDC Small Business Grant? Cindy encourages fellow entrepreneurs: “Go for it—there’s absolutely nothing to lose, and the support WBDC provides along the way is designed to help you succeed.” We are currently accepting applications on a rolling basis; the next deadline is June 15. Visit: https://ctwbdc.org/waterbury-grant-program/ for full eligibility details and resources to help you prepare. (fb)