RT Brown has been promoted to Deputy Director in recognition of his accomplishments in a variety of roles since joining seCTer in 2021.
RT’s initiatives have covered the full range of seCTer’s mission to “stimulate and support economic development and diversification” across the region.
In his most recent role as Director of Economic Development Strategy and Business Services, Brown oversaw production of the region’s current Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) in collaboration with other regional organizations.
He is responsible for loan and grant programs, business outreach, and has met with hundreds of owners of small to medium-sized businesses to provide guidance for expansion and sustainability plans. Under his leadership, the seCTerRise program of grants has helped 87 businesses by providing $1.2 million for expansion opportunities.
His efforts have led to job retention and job creation across a wide spectrum, from defense subcontractors to retail outlets, the hospitality industry, and the general services sector.
RT’s focus is on building a resilient regional economy prepared for challenges ranging from local natural disasters to global economic disruptions that trickle down to regional economies.
“RT brought significant economic development experience when he joined seCTer, and entrepreneurs across eastern Connecticut have benefited from that experience and his insights when it comes to sustainability and resiliency planning,” said Paul Whitescarver, Executive Director of seCTer. “Much of what RT does is behind the scenes, but the entrepreneurs he has helped, and others in leadership positions across the region, see the value he brings by helping new businesses start and existing businesses grow to become more resilient.”
