TikTok Sparks Opportunity for Connecticut  

Local small business owners discussed how they have successfully grown their brands using TikTok and TikTok Shop in this dynamic December 3 event. 

They shared how they got started on the platform, the impact on their businesses—from expanding customer reach to building strong communities—and offered practical tips on content creation, engagement, and finding your niche. 

Whether you’re new to TikTok or looking to grow your presence, this conversation offered valuable insights and inspiration straight from local entrepreneurs. 

Agenda

9:30 am | Check-In & Networking 

10 am | Opening Remarks 

• Arunan Arulampalam, Mayor of Hartford 
• Chris Davis, VP Public Policy, CBIA 
• State Representative Eleni Kavros DeGraw (D-Avon) 
• Julien Nagarajan, U.S. State Public Policy Manager, TikTok 

10:15 am | How Small Businesses Are Growing with TikTok in Connecticut 

• Moderator: Danielle Cloud, Policy Director, CBIA 
• Chris Allen, Founder & CEO, Gas Burger 
• Bryan MacDonald, Director of Ecommerce, Oma’s Pride 
• John Moshos, Founder & Owner, Elm Street Diner 
• Adam Rivard, Founder & Owner, Bumpa Built 

11 am | Networking  

12 pm | Adjourn