Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont and the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) announced the Strategic Supply Chain Initiative, a $25 million grant program designed to support supply chain companies, enhance production capacity, and attract new operations to the state.
Responding to Trump’s Tariffs
Lamont and the DECD unveiled the program a few days before President Donald Trump returned to the White House and revealed plans to impose 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada on Feb. 1.
Eligible Operations
Under the initiative, companies can seek grants from $500,000 to $5 million. Eligible expenses include adding new technology and robotics, buying equipment and machinery, improving infrastructure, investing in process and product innovation, strengthening research and development activities, and establishing new operations.
The program does not apply to routine machinery or facility, equipment maintenance, or fulfilling existing contracts, bids, or work.
The program will prioritize supply chain firms in core industries, including semiconductors, manufacturing, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence. The initiative requires selected companies to provide a minimum 50% match and 10% for companies in distressed areas.
Aiding Manufacturing and Renewable Energy
Lamont said that the initiative would boost multiple industries in Connecticut, including renewable energy, high-tech manufacturing, and information technology. DECD Commissioner Daniel O’Keefe added that the program would capitalize on onshoring and growth opportunities.
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