FORGE plans to establish operations in Connecticut where it will offer advice and guidance to local manufacturing startups, free of charge. According to the organization, FORGE is a nonprofit that helps businesses along their journey from prototype to commercialization. Through their Manufacturing Initiative, FORGE offers training and support to manufacturers and introduces them to suppliers in their network that can help fill gaps and bring the finished product to market. To date, FORGE has created over 150 contracts between new companies and supplies.
FORGE has operated in Massachusetts since its creation in 2015, and the organization hopes to replicate their success in Connecticut.
In a recent quote, Governor Ned Lamont said, “We know the critical role manufacturing plays in our economy, and connecting these resources to the startups that are driving innovation will help keep Connecticut a leader through these sectors. FORGE’s presence in Connecticut will set the stage for long-term manufacturing and business innovation.”
Laura Teicher, executive director of FORGE, added, “Connecticut’s ecosystem provides a rich assortment of suppliers and advanced manufacturing offerings. This complete, end-to-end ecosystem helps ensure a successful economic future for Connecticut.”