CT Boost Loan Fund Still Accepting Applications! The Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund, a new initiative of the state of Connecticut, offers low-interest loans to eligible small businesses and nonprofits. This program is active and interested businesses can register to check eligibility, and if they are, choose a community lender and a technical assistance provider who can assist with pre- and post-loan business advising. You can find more information on our website, including two webinars providing overviews and in-depth information on the application process, and links to success stories from the Stamford Y, Vase Management, and Breakfast Belle. http://ow.ly/A9wX50MCfMg (fb)

While we congratulate all of this year’s Arts Hero Award recipients, many of whom are from CMSC member communities, we want to call out two in particular: Matt Conway from the RiseUP Group and Richard White from the Coventry Arts Guild. Matt was one of the featured speakers in our Small Things that Make a Big Difference webinar, talking about how the RiseUP Group incorporates the community into their murals, and their particular impact helping rejuvenate Purnell Place in Manchester into a pedestrian-friendly marketplace with vendors, art and live music. Richard was a speaker at our 2021 Spotlight on Main Street event in Coventry and spoke passionately and eloquently about the fruitful partnership between the Town and the Arts Guild, of which he serves as President. Coventry, a CMSC member, has worked hard over the years to incorporate their vibrant artist community into their downtown, where visitors can enjoy wonderful works of art along Main Street. Richard also curates a large outdoor public art exhibit in the downtown which has attracted thousands of visitors over the years. Congratulations to Matt, Richard and all of this year’s Art Heroes! Check out the full list here: https://portal.ct.gov/DECD/Content/Arts-and-Culture/Awards_Recognition/Arts-Hero-Award/Meet-the-Heroes (fb)