On June 6th, 2024, CT Tech Week featured an insightful breakfast event with Mayor Caroline Simmons and Alison J. Malloy from Connecticut Innovations.

This thought-provoking fireside chat focused on entrepreneurship and the City of Stamford's pivotal role in fostering a thriving environment for startups and small businesses.

The event started with a lively and inspiring introduction by Kevin Nolan, President and CEO of GE Appliances. Kevin, who hails from Connecticut, is a seasoned engineer with 29 patents and a 30-year career at GE and the creative mind behind FirstBuild, the world's first corporate maker's space. Beyond his professional accolades, Kevin is passionate about promoting STEAM programs and boosting community development in Louisville, KY.

Speakers:

• Mayor Caroline Simmons: Elected in 2021, Mayor Simmons aims to make Stamford more equitable, inclusive, and vibrant. Her efforts include investing in the city's infrastructure and supporting small businesses and job growth. With a background in the Connecticut House of Representatives, she has been a strong advocate for women and minority-owned businesses.

• Alison Malloy: Managing Director of Investments at Connecticut Innovations, Alison focuses on tech investments and consumer product goods, managing CI's $50M Future Fund. With over 20 years in the industry, Alison has a strong track record, including founding Design2Launch and co-founding Tidal River, Connecticut's women investor network.

This event was a key highlight of #CTTechWeek, a series of events hosted by non-profits, the City of Stamford, Realist Lab, VCs, and startups to bring together the CT tech ecosystem.

CT Tech Week extends a heartfelt thanks to Kevin Nolan, Mayor Caroline Simmons, Alison Malloy, and all the attendees for making this event a success. Scroll below to see the event gallery.

Image Sources: Melissa Olguin