10/15/2013
Gov. Malloy Tours Small Business in Bridgeport
Manufacturer Received State Grant To Expand
(BRIDGEPORT, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today toured Byrne Woodworking, a manufacturer of high-end custom cabinetry and millwork, one year after the company received a Small Business Express (EXP) Grant. The business, at 170 Herbert St., Bridgeport, was able to hire three full-time cabinetmakers, retain seven jobs, and break ground on a 1,800-square-foot expansion.
"Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and the Small Business Express Program is an essential part of making sure that we have the tools we need to help them succeed," said Governor Malloy. "I am delighted to see that Byrne Woodworking is already exceeding hiring goals, and will hire local employees during construction."
Byrne Woodworking manufactures cabinetry for new and remodeled homes and buildings, working most often with general contractors or architects. In October 2012, the company received a $100,000 matching grant from the state Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD).
"My custom cabinet making business has been growing as Connecticut has recovered from the recession, but access to capital has been difficult for small businesses like mine to get," said Owner Frank Byrne. "The money that the state provided through Small Business Express is allowing me to expand my shop, and I've hired three full time employees, two of whom were unemployed and one who just graduated from high school, and taken on two part-time apprentices from a local high school."
The EXP program, administered by DECD, offers loans and matching grants to Connecticut companies with fewer than 50 employees at the time of application. For more information on EXP or to apply for the program, visit the Small Business Express Program website .