GROTON CT — Seven diverse eastern Connecticut businesses ranging from farms to a manufacturer serving the aerospace industry, and an iconic, family-owned toy store have been awarded grants by seCTer, the Southeastern CT Enterprise Region.
This is the latest distribution from the seCTerRise grant program. Six of the businesses qualified for grants of $10,000 each and one qualified for a grant of $25,000.
seCTer is the federally designated economic development agency for eastern Connecticut, helping to launch new businesses and supporting expansion and resiliency for established businesses.
PITH Products of Ashford has been designing and manufacturing customized tool management and storage solutions for 35 years. Their custom-designed and manufactured products are shipped to clients worldwide and they have found particular success with the aerospace industry.
The $25,000 seCTerRise grant will allow PITH Products to become certified in the latest standards for cybersecurity , which such industries require. New standards take effect in 2027, and without the upgrade PITH risks losing contracts. By meeting the new Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 compliance standards they can also expand their business into new market opportunities. PITH has a staff of 21 employees and anticipates creating 3 to 5 new full-time positions as Level 2 certification provides more growth.
Lee’s Toy & Hobby, an icon of the Groton retail community that dates to 1952, was awarded $10,000 for two separate projects. Owner Peter Marcus plans to update the store’s website to provide a more modern look and to improve the customer experience while retaining the character of the 1950s-era business. He also plans to introduce and broaden the selection of higher-end and specialty toy lines to attract a new audience. The projects are intended to increase sales online and in the store.
The grant will also benefit another local business icon, as Ruby Glass will be contracted to update display cases in the store.
Little Dipper Farm, located in Brooklyn, will use its grant to purchaseawalk-in cooler with a CoolBot system, a Power Ox two-wheel tractor, and essential field and propagation tools. The new equipment is intended to increase production capacity, improve post-harvest handling, and expand the customer base to serve co-ops, schools, and local farm-to-table establishments. The farm also hosts community events and farm dinners, requiring an inventory of fresh food. The advanced walk-in cooler will reduce post-harvest spoilage by maintaining proper storage temperatures, decreasing food waste and increasing sellable inventory.
Molodich Farm in Sterling is planning to expand operations as the family farm transitions to the fourth generation represented by Andrew Molodich. Andrew is gradually taking the reins from his father Michael and his uncle Joseph. The seCTerRise grant will be used to purchase a 24- foot, tandem-axle hay wagon that will significantly improve operational efficiency while harvesting hay, which can only be harvested and baled under ideal weather conditions. The increase in production will add revenue, require the hiring of additional employees, and improve sustainability of this family operation.
Reading2Connect, based in Niantic and owned by Susan Ostrowski,provides age and dementia-accessible books and implementation training designed to increase older adults’ independence, engagement, and social connection. R2C has demonstrated strong national demand for its dementia-accessible reading programs currently used in 156 senior living facilities, libraries, universities, hospitals, adult day centers, and home care companies across 30 U.S. states, Wales, and New Zealand. Expansion thus far has been through referrals. The seCTerRise grant will be used to create jobs and grow the business by accelerating targeted expansion in southeastern Connecticut. A marketing specialist and two part-time staff positions will be created.
Waterford Gymnastics Center owner Kristi Morrison plans to purchase more advanced equipment that will allow her to broaden her clientele and add classes. The upgrades will allow her team of 15 employees to safely train more advanced gymnasts and expand into higher level skill development classes. The improvements are intended to retain students longer as they progress and to attract new families seeking advanced training options.
Carrie Tortorici, owner of Carrie Ashton Entertainment of Old Saybrook, operates a professional performing and recording venture built on her years of experience as a live and studio vocalist. She plans to expand into professional audiobook and spoken-word recording to meet growing market demand by purchasing equipment to establish an in-home recording studio. The equipment will eliminate the need for a rented studio. Tortorici envisions hiring an assistant to help coordinate the additional business.
