Optimum, BRBC Award $125K in Small Business Grants

Optimum Business and the Bridgeport Regional Business Council have awarded $125,000 in grants to area small businesses.

Twenty-five businesses will each receive $5,000 through Optimum and BRBC’s Lifting Up Small Businesses in Bridgeport program.

The grants are designed to help support small business growth and long-term success while further expanding and contributing to the prosperity of their local communities.

“We recognize that small businesses are not just economic engines; they are the heart and soul of thriving neighborhoods, bringing innovation and opportunity to Bridgeport and beyond,” said Elton Hart, vice president and general manager of Optimum Tri-State.

“Participating in this grant program allows us to directly support the entrepreneurs whose hard work sustains the vibrancy and unique character of the communities we serve.”

‘Innovation, Impact, Growth’

BRBC president and CEO Dan Onofrio said the grant program attracted “dozens of applications from passionate and deserving local entrepreneurs.”

“We’re proud to recognize the top 25 businesses whose projects stand out for their innovation, community impact, and potential for growth,” he said.

“We look forward to celebrating their achievements and seeing how these grants help strengthen Bridgeport’s economic fabric and foster lasting success across our neighborhoods.”

Grants were awarded to:

• All Things Eyes LLC
• The Barking Lot
• Berlinetta Brewing Company
• BMR Studios
• Bridge House, Inc.
• Bridgeport Downtown Special Services District
• Cassermere Media LLC
• Creative Venue & Rentals
• Edco Industries, Inc.
• F3 Digital Marketing
• Fifth State Distillery
• Gorgeous by Glam Beauty Academy
• I Care Outreach, Inc.
• Lakeview Cemetery Association
• Master Junk Removal LLC
• NaturalAnnie Essentials
• New Vision International Ministries
• nOURish Bridgeport, Inc.
• PrintabiliTees
• Schwerdtle, Inc.
• SHU Discovery Science Center & Planetarium
• Sound Coffee
• Sunshine Daycare Center 2
• Three Little Bears Day Care
• Yankee Metals LLC