April 13, 2012

MIDDLETOWN COMPANY TO EXPAND
AND CREATE JOBS WITH STATE SUPPORT

Governor Dannel P. Malloy and State Representative Joseph Serra today announced that a Middletown company specializing in solar energy projects has qualified for a grant through the state’s Small Business Express Program (EXP) to expand their operations and create jobs. EXP was created as part of the bipartisan jobs bill backed by Serra that was passed during the October, 2011 Special Session.

Greenskies Renewable, LLC of Middletown has been awarded a $100,000 Matching Grant and a Job Creation Incentive Loan in the amount of $250,000. A solar integrator that specializes in solar financing, system design, project implementation, coordination, long-term system monitoring and maintenance, Greenskies will hire four new employees over the next three years as they work with several major multinational corporations to scale up a number of successfully completed pilot installations at locations throughout the northeast.

“It is really great to see another business right here in our community expanding and growing with the support of the state,” said Representative Joseph Serra. “Greenskies, particularly with its mission of encouraging the use of solar energy, is a great fit for the Small Business Express program which will help add jobs to our local economy.”

In total, EXP will provide $100 million to help the state’s small businesses hire more employees and fund capital investments. The program, administered by DECD, offers loans and matching grants to Connecticut companies with fewer than 50 employees.

“From entrepreneurs creating cutting edge products in emerging industries to business leaders looking to expand long-standing companies, EXP is a program that demonstrates the state’s commitment to Connecticut’s small companies and their role in creating and protecting the jobs that will strengthen our economy,” said Governor Malloy.

For more information on EXP or to apply for the program, visit the Small Business Express Program website or contact Michelle Lugo at DECD at 860-270-8052 or Michelle.Lugo@ct.gov.