The Hartford Commits $2M for Small Business

The Hartford is committing $2 million through a multi-year initiative to support small businesses. 

The company said the donation will expand the company’s Small Business Accelerator Grant Program with Main Street America.

The national nonprofit organization works to strengthen communities through economic development of historic downtowns and commercial districts. 

Over the next two years, the company will award up to 15 grants to communities helping small businesses gain access to affordable mutli-use spaces. 

“We have the privilege of working with small business owners every day,” said The Hartford’s head of small business, Chris Jones.

“We are proud to partner with Main Street America to address one of their biggest challenges—access to commercial real estate.”

Economic Development

Main Street America chief innovation officer Matt Wagner added that small businesses need a “vibrant support system with access to strategic spaces and networks that can help them scale and sustain growth for the long haul.”

The program will support new and existing small business accelerator sites including pop-up shops and coworking spaces.

“This initiative will enable business owners to connect with their local community.”

The Hartford’s Chris Jones

“This initiative will enable business owners to connect with their local community, attract new customers and contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of main streets,” said Jones. 

The program awarded first-round grants to eight communities across the country in three categories—new and expanding, operating, and sustaining grants.

They will help organizations establish new commercial sites, enhance ongoing services, or sustain a project’s long-term success. 

Nationwide Reach

The initiative will also fund a new virtual accelerator program and content for a digital platform providing training, networking, and mentorship for small business owners. 

The goal is to reach approximately 1,500 small businesses nationwide.

“By offering affordable spaces and mentorship, this program provides the critical places small business owners need to overcome barriers, while strengthening the fabric of local economies where it’s most needed,” said Wagner. 

“This program provides the critical places small business owners need to overcome barriers.”

Main Street America’s Matt Wagner

The initiative expands the Small Business Accelerator Grant Program piloted by The Hartford and Main Street America in 2023. 

That pilot program awarded $300,000 in business accelerator grants to three Main Street communities. 

The program will announce the round of grants in 2026.