SBA Names Bristol’s Bauer National Exporter of the Year

Bristol-based Bauer, Inc., which recently marked its 100th anniversary, is earning national recognition. 

The aerospace components manufacturer, led by CEO Louis Auletta and senior vice president Michael Auletta, is the U.S. Small Business Administration’s National Exporter of the Year. 

“Bauer is receiving this prestigious award in part for their exporting growth, community involvement, and successfully leveraging SBA programs and services,” said SBA Connecticut District director Catherine Marx.

“Bauer’s success is a testament to the power of exporting and the critical role SBA plays in supporting small businesses in their growth and international expansion.”

The honor is a specialty award for SBA’s 2025 National Small Business Week. 

‘Innovation and Excellence’

 “This award represents the hard work and dedication of all Bauer employees and our commitment to delivering high-quality products to customers around the world,” said Michael Auletta. 

“The SBA has been a tremendous resource for us as we continue to grow and represent Connecticut manufacturing on the global stage.”

Their equipment is used around the world with customers including the U.S. military, Pratt & Whitney, Lockheed Martin, UTC Aerospace Systems, commercial airlines, and commercial maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations.

“Bauer is a gem in the crown that is the Connecticut manufacturing industry.”

CBIA’s Chris DiPentima

The company exports to more than 80 different countries.

“Bauer is a gem in the crown that is the Connecticut manufacturing industry,” said CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima. 

“The SBA National Exporter of the Year award recognizes the company’s contributions to the global aerospace industry and the dedication and expertise of the entire Auletta family and Bauer team.

“Bauer exemplifies Connecticut’s rich legacy of innovation and excellence, and it’s great to see that recognized at the national level.”

Celebrating Small Businesses

Bauer will join other Connecticut National Small Business Week award winners at the National Small Business Week SBA Awards & Resource Expo May 8 at Woodwinds in Branford.

The event is a collaboration between CBIA and the SBA Connecticut District Office.

“Organizations like CBIA play a vital role in strengthening Connecticut’s business community, advocating for policies that help manufacturers like Bauer compete and thrive internationally,” said Michael Auletta.

“We’re proud to be part of a state with such a strong manufacturing heritage and a bright future in global trade.”

“We’re proud to be part of a state with such a strong manufacturing heritage.”

Michael Auletta

National Small Business Week will be celebrated May 4-10 with events across the country honoring small businesses.

The SBA will also hold a two-day summit in Washington, DC.

SBA administrator Kelly Loeffler plans to visit Connecticut during Small Business Week.

She will meet with local small businesses, entrepreneurs, lenders, and community leaders to highlight SBA’s mission of empowering job creators, delivering disaster relief, and driving economic growth.