The Community Economic Development Fund has expanded its resources to better serve the Connecticut business community. Dennis Gruell, former Director of the UCONN Small Business Development Center, has joined CEDF's technical assistance staff. Dennis brings a twenty-year retail business background, and ten years of experience working with small businesses around the state.

Dennis Gruell has a strong background in planning, marketing, and financial management for CEDF clients.

The technical assistance component of the CEDF Loan Department is structured to provide CEDF borrowers with technical assistance and support for the life of their loans. Dennis stated,” When a small business obtains a CEDF loan, they receive more than just funding. They also get someone like me to advise and help them reach their full potential. We want to see our small businesses succeed”. He adds, “I love working with small businesses, assisting them to handle their challenges and see business opportunities. It's one way we at CEDF add value to our lending products!”