The Connecticut Economy

How will Connecticut’s next governor shape the state’s economic future—and what issues matter most to voters and employers?

Join us September 17 at The Connecticut Economy, featuring Governor Ned Lamont—running for a third term as the state’s chief executive officer—and Republican challenger Senator Ryan Fazio sharing their visions for economic growth, competitiveness, and opportunity ahead of the November elections.

University of New Hampshire Survey Center director Andrew Smith breaks down what Connecticut voters want, providing a data-driven look at the top issues shaping the 2026 elections. 

This year’s conference also features the release of the 2026 Survey of Connecticut Businesses, offering key insights into the challenges and priorities facing employers across the state. 

And we’ll release the annual update to the CBIA Foundation for Economic Growth & Opportunity’s Connecticut competitiveness index, a must-have reference guide detailing key economic data points and trends. 

The Ohio Chamber of Commerce’s Rick Carfagna, economic development consultant Katherine Saunders, and Florida Chamber of Commerce CEO Mark Wilson will review the index and share best practices for growing a sustainable, competitive economy. 

From business conditions to voter priorities, this year’s conference offers invaluable insights into the forces shaping Connecticut’s economy—not to mention numerous opportunities to connect with hundreds of your peers from around the state. 

Agenda

7:30 am | Networking Breakfast 

8:30 am | Opening Remarks 

• Chris DiPentima, President & CEO, CBIA 

8:40 am | Results: 2026 Survey of Connecticut Businesses 

• Moderator: Michael Brooder, Hartford Office Managing Director, CBIZ  
• David Fiereck, President, Loureiro Engineering  
• Tom McGwire, Owner & CEO, U.S. Fabricating
• Jessica Rich, Co-CEO, The Walker Group

9:20 am | The Competitive Edge: How States Win

• Moderator: Dustin Nord, Director, CBIA Foundation for Economic Growth & Opportunity
• Rick Carfagna, SVP, Government Affairs, Ohio Chamber of Commerce 
• Katherine Saunders, Partner, Head of Strategy & Leadership, Economic Leadership LLC
• Mark Wilson, President & CEO, Florida Chamber of Commerce

10 am | Networking Break 

10:20 am | Jobs & the Economy: The Fazio Plan

•  GOP gubernatorial candidate Senator Ryan Fazio speaks with Chris DiPentima

11 am | Top Issues: What Connecticut Voters Want 

• Introduction: Stephen Lewis, President, Thomaston Savings Bank 
• Andrew Smith, Director, University of New Hampshire Survey Center 

11:20 am | Jobs & the Economy: The Lamont Plan

• Governor Ned Lamont speaks with Chris DiPentima

12 pm | Adjourn