As I was talking to someone the other day I was asked a question I had never, ever considered. What are the initiatives available and encouraged in Southeastern Connecticut?

I am not sure. I don’t recall ever seeing or hearing anything in specific. I do not participate in but I have heard about the brown bag lunches, the Chamber breakfasts, the NCDC shops and flags programs, Council of Governments but if there is more I am not aware.

Have you heard about the Connecticut Technology Council (CTC)? It is the oldest and only business association expressly serving the needs of enterprises working in technology and innovation. Representing over 275 members and a community of over 6,000 companies with over 200,000 employees, CTC works to serve its members and the broader interests of the State of Connecticut as they relate to the growth and success of technology-based development.

The CTC is organized into three Strategic Initiatives: Talent & Workforce, Growth & Emerging Companies, IT & Infrastructure, plus over-arching Public Policy & Advocacy efforts. Working with an active Board of Directors composed of technology and professional services leaders, CTC offers programs and services to build a community of innovation and technology.

In Eastern Connecticut where do you find assistance in focusing on how to build a core team, how to structure a company, advice on how to attract investors, on developing the product/service, developing and maintaining key partnerships, sales channels, and marketing plans. These tasks alone are typically all-consuming for the business founders, taxing both their financial and time resources.

But then at the same time there may be intellectual property (IP) issues. What and when should a business take steps to protect its core intellectual property (Patents, Trademarks and Copyrights) and avoid the risk of third party intellectual property issues? Today, more than ever, having a solid understanding of intellectual property and developing an IP strategy that aligns with the business is a crucial part of building a new venture on a solid foundation.

Talent & Workforce works to strengthen Connecticut’s Tech-talent pipeline by supporting the startups and the scale-ups. Playing an important role in planning, education, and mentoring. Technology professionals of all levels are participating and available to support and advocate for the best resources for professionals in tech-enabled businesses and infrastructure development in Connecticut. They draw talent from Connecticut’s numerous colleges and universities. The CTC is an active public policy advocate supporting business, capital, and employment and a unifying voice in the technology ecosystem in Connecticut.

If you are serious about being a part of the technology-based revolution in Connecticut do not hesitate to look on the other side of the Connecticut River for help and guidance. There are multiple, hardworking organizations available to help, mentor and guide you. Many have been waiting for an invitation and an opportunity to partner with groups in Eastern Connecticut. All it takes is a phone call, an e-mail, or an exchange of business cards to get the process started. there are programs you see available in other places, please speak up and ask for them to be presented in Eastern Connecticut. You are not alone. Speak up and speak out!

Thank you for reading and sharing my history and Norwich Community blog freely with your family or friends or anyone you think might be interested or in a position to take on some of the suggested projects. Don't hesitate to contact me for further information. I am happy to pass along anything I can. Together we can make a difference. Email comments on this blog to berylfishbone@yahoo.com View my past columns at http://www.norwichbulletin.com/section/blogs