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Small Business Resource Center

Eastern Connecticut State University has partnered with Liberty Bank and the Town of Windham to establish the Small Business Resource Center (SBRC) - a collaborative initiative designed to empower aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs in the Greater Willimantic area. Located on Eastern’s campus, the SBRC will offer free, hands-on support to small business owners and entrepreneurs, with a focus on individuals who face barriers to business development and growth.

The Center aims to foster inclusive economic development and strengthen the local business ecosystem while providing Eastern students with applied learning opportunities in business, financial consulting, and community engagement.

Small Business Resource Center Logo

Mission

The ECSU-Liberty Bank Small Business Resource Center (SBRC) empowers entrepreneurs by providing free and accessible resources, education, and mentorship. Through community-based consulting and entrepreneurial support, Eastern students, faculty, and partner organizations actively engage with local businesses, contributing to the long-term economic vitality of Willimantic and the surrounding region.

SBRC Services and Resources

  • Free small business development support, including Liberty Bank’s Academy for Small Businesses curriculum, business plan writing, business consulting, and mentorship.
  • Networking opportunities and access to community resources.

Student Engagement: ECSU students and faculty provide hands-on consulting and support, gaining real-world experience while strengthening the local economy.

 Community Impact Goals

  • Support the launch of new and growth of existing small businesses  
  • Help create jobs and employment opportunities in the region  
  • Provide tools and resources for small business growth and stability
  • Engage Eastern faculty and students in community-based learning and service delivery 

News Stories

Agreement Signing Ceremony

Agreement Signing Ceremony

Eastern partners with Liberty Bank, Town of Windham to boost local businesses

Learn More
Launch Event

Launch Event

Willimantic businesses rally behind new Small Business Resource Center

Learn More
Academy for Small Business

Academy for Small Business

Local entrepreneurs attend Eastern’s first Small Business Academy

Learn More
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA)

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA)

Eastern students bring tax savings to Willimantic residents

Learn More

Contact Information

Niti Pandey
Dean, School of Education and Professional Studies/Graduate Division
sbrc@easternct.edu

 Miles Lovell
Graduate Intern

Current Programming

Business Networking Event: Join the ECSU-Liberty Bank Small Business Resource Center and Eastern Connecticut Professionals for an opportunity to connect, learn, and grow your business. This is a business networking event that will bring together local businesses, local and regional chambers, and entrepreneurs to build meaningful connections.

RSVP for Event

Date and Time: May 12, 5:00–7:00 PM

Location: Fine Arts Instructional Center (FAIC) Lobby, Eastern Connecticut State University

Address: 83 Windham St, Willimantic, CT 06226

Parking Information:
Please register your vehicle under “Visitor”: https://easternct.t2hosted.com/cmn/auth_ext.aspx 

Upcoming Programming

Business Plan Workshop

Summer 2026

Develop a clear and organized plan to guide your business goals and long-term vision. This course will support entrepreneurs in structuring their ideas into a professional and purposeful business plan.

Housing Resource Fair

Summer 2026

The Housing Resource Fair is designed for future homeowners, featuring practical tools on understanding the mortgage process, credit building, and budgeting.


Small Business Matchmaker

Summer 2026

Connect with local resources and industry professionals to expand your network and opportunities. This event is designed to help small businesses build partnerships and access support for growth and success.


Academy for Small Business


October 13 - November 12

The academy includes a series of 10 lectures by an assortment of Eastern faculty members and local industry professionals, designed to assist both local entrepreneurs and Eastern students in developing their small businesses through networking opportunities, financial resources, professional guidance, and more. Upon completion, participants qualify for a $5,000 line of credit through Liberty Bank. 

Past Programming

  • September 22, 2025 @ 5pm

    Eastern Connecticut State University hosted a community networking event on Sept. 22 at the J. Eugene Smith Library for its recently formalized Small Business Resource Center (SBRC). Launched in partnership with Liberty Bank and the Town of Windham, the SBRC will engage students and support local businesses by providing resources, educational programming, and networking/mentoring opportunities.

    (Co-sponsored by: Northeastern Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Business Development Council, and Willimantic Downtown Neighborhood Association)

    Inside Eastern Article | Flyer

  • October 14 – November 13, 2025 5pm-7pm | Tuesdays: In-Person | Thursdays: Online

    The academy included a series of 10 lectures by an assortment of Eastern faculty members and local industry professionals, designed to assist both local entrepreneurs and Eastern students in developing their small businesses through networking opportunities, financial resources, professional guidance, and more. 

     

  • February 7 – April 12, 2026 9am-3pm | Saturday & Sunday: In-Person

    The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provided free income tax preparation services to low-and moderate-income individuals and families across the state of Connecticut 

    Location: Windham Heights Learning Center

    Schedule a VITA appointment visit

  • April 13th, 2026 | 10am - 11am

    An interactive session where small business owners learned practical marketing tips and strategies to help grow sales and reach more customers.