Stamford’s SoundWaters has deep relationships with area schools. Now it’s offering paid training for young adults entering the marine trades.
Erica E. Phillips
Erica covered economic development for CT Mirror from 2021 to 2024. She is now CT Mirror's state policy editor. Before moving to Connecticut to join the staff, Erica worked in Los Angeles for public radio’s Marketplace and, before that, for the Wall Street Journal's L.A. bureau. She grew up in Minneapolis, Minn., graduated from Haverford College and earned a master’s in journalism from the University of Southern California.
Posted inEconomic Development
CT wants semiconductor suppliers to seek CHIPS Act funding
A second round of CHIPS Act funding aims to support smaller companies, and CT officials see a big opportunity for the state’s manufacturers.
Posted inCrossing Connecticut
CT small business loans target diverse owners, distressed cities
Two-thirds of CT Boost Fund loan recipients are women, people of color, veterans or LGBTQ. Still, DECD says there’s ‘room for improvement.’
Posted inNewsletters
On Balance: Who makes up CT’s ‘working class’?
Erica E. Phillips writes about the people and career paths in Connecticut’s “working class” and celebrates Small Business Saturday.
Posted inEducation
CT spent $8.4M fixing up a college building — but hasn’t paid to staff it
CT renovated a Tunxis Community College building to be used for machine technology classes. But money to run the program isn’t in the budget.
Posted inEconomic Development
Dan O’Keefe to be named next CT economic development chief
Dan O’Keefe, an executive with finance experience, will be commissioner of the CT economic development agency, succeeding Alexandra Daum.
Posted inMoney
New book on Ray Dalio sheds light on CT funding saga
Hedge fund founder Ray Dalio has said he’s working on his legacy. Given revelations in the new book ‘The Fund,’ what might that be?
Posted inNewsletters
On Balance: Voting with your wallet
Erica E. Phillips writes about a book on poverty and CT’s B Corporations — companies that meet certain environmental and labor standards.
Posted inEducation
As CT kindergarten age changes, worries about transition emerge
Beginning next fall, CT children must be 5 years old on Sept. 1 to start kindergarten. How will that affect school districts and child care?
Posted inEconomic Development
Members of Annie Lamont investor network launch fund, aim to raise $1M
Tidal River Fund will target early-stage companies led by women and minorities. Lamont will not contribute, due to a “conflict of interest.”
Posted inNewsletters
On Balance: Thinking locally
Erica E. Phillips writes about local business districts and Connecticut’s new “make it here” campaign and promotional video.
Posted inEconomic Development
‘Make it here’ joins ‘Find your vibe’ in latest CT marketing blitz
The new marketing campaign is designed to overcome negative perceptions about Connecticut and appeal to a younger demographic.
Posted inEconomic Development
Nonprofit arts orgs contribute $1 billion to CT economy, report finds
In CT, nonprofit arts and culture groups spent $606 million on payroll and generated nearly $1 billion in economic impact, a new report says.
Posted inNewsletters
On Balance: A reason to relocate
Erica E. Phillips writes about whether people are leaving CT for warmer climates and friendlier tax policy.
Posted inEducation
Grant to boost career transition services for CT youth with disabilities
‘Pathways to Partnerships’ provides $10 million to strengthen CT and agency collaboration for helping students with disabilities.
