CT SB01077

Establishes a pilot "Entrepreneur in Residence" program administered by the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, running from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2016.

Commissioner shall appoint no more than ten entrepreneurs in residence per year as full-time state agency employees to improve outreach, strengthen private sector coordination, and enhance state program accessibility for entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Appointees must demonstrate skill and experience in their field, success working with entrepreneurs and small businesses, or proven ability to develop and commercialize products; individuals may serve maximum two years.

Entrepreneurs in residence shall assist agencies in improving outreach, recommend program efficiency improvements, educate businesses on state programs, conduct employee training sessions, and provide technical assistance to entrepreneurs.

Commissioner shall prioritize placing appointees across different state agencies, with no more than two assigned to a single agency in any given year, and shall endeavor to reflect the state's gender and racial diversity.