DECD, CBIA Partner on Business Leadership Series

The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development and CBIA are partnering on a new quarterly business leadership series. 

The MADE series is designed to connect private and public sector leaders and create opportunities for professionals and entrepreneurs in the state’s evolving business landscape. 

“Connecticut offers an unparalleled value proposition for businesses with a highly skilled workforce, welcoming innovation ecosystem, and strategic access to global markets,” Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement. 

“The MADE series is a platform to bring that value to the forefront, offering businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals the tools and connections they need to thrive.”

Attracting Talent

The series features high-profile speakers, expert panels, networking, and “office hours” with public and private sector leaders. 

The first event—Talent MADE, focused on workforce attraction and retention—is scheduled for Wednesday, April 9 at East Hartford’s Rentschler Field. 

The event will feature discussions on cultivating positive workplace culture, what young professionals want from their jobs and community, and creating opportunity.

“We are strengthening our state’s business environment and ensuring continued growth.”

CBIA’s Chris DiPentima

Lamont, DECD commissioner Daniel O’Keefe, Hartford Healthcare CEO Jeffrey Flaks, Bigelow Tea CEO Cyndi Bigelow, and CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima are among the speakers and panelists for the event. 

“Connecticut’s business community thrives on collaboration,” DiPentima said. “MADE is an opportunity to bring together thought leaders, industry experts, and future innovators.

“By fostering these conversations, we are strengthening our state’s business environment and ensuring continued growth.”

Businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals interested in attending the inaugural MADE event can register online.

Future Events

Future MADE events will take place in different locations, focusing on distinct themes to create opportunities for business in the state.

Upcoming events include: 

• Innovation MADE: May 28, at the Yale Innovation Summit, exploring the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and business growth.
• Reputation MADE: Octpber 2025 in greater Fairfield County, addressing how businesses can stand out with authentic and strong brands.

“The business landscape is constantly evolving,” said O’Keefe.

“MADE will offer invaluable perspectives from some of the brightest minds in business.”

DECD’s Daniel O’Keefe

“MADE will offer invaluable perspectives from some of the brightest minds in business, providing attendees with actionable strategies to create long-term opportunities for growth.”

In addition to in-person discussions, WTNH and Connoisseur Media have joined as media partners.

They will provide extensive coverage of the events and host a joint podcast with video featuring panelists and speakers. 

Episodes will air every month following and in-between events.