Hartford-Area Entrepreneurs Learn Vital Tools To Succeed

HARTFORD, CT — DoorDash, the MetroHartford Alliance and the City of Hartford hosted a small business workshop on May 12 aimed at helping local entrepreneurs expand operations and improve digital marketing strategies.

The event brought together representatives from 18 Hartford-area businesses for hands-on training focused on DoorDash business tools, advertising resources, and artificial intelligence-powered business solutions.

Participants also received DoorDash advertising credits intended to help businesses immediately apply lessons from the workshop, organizers said.

Julio Concepción, executive director of the Hartford Chamber of Commerce, said the event connected small business owners with resources designed to support long-term growth.

“Today’s Workshop was an important opportunity to connect Hartford’s small business owners with the resources they need to succeed,” Concepción said of the May 12 event. “We’re proud to work alongside DoorDash and the City of Hartford to support our local business community.”

Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam said the city is working to reduce barriers facing local entrepreneurs.

“Hartford's small business owners are the backbone of our local economy, and they deserve a city that's working to make their lives easier, not harder,” Arulampalam said. “That means more than just talking about it — it means removing the barriers that get in the way.”

Daniela Michanie, DoorDash’s head of New England public engagement, said the workshop was intended to help businesses access practical tools and networking opportunities.

“It was incredible to see so many local business owners come together for this Workshop,” Michanie said. “By partnering with MetroHartford Alliance and Hartford city leaders, we’re helping ensure local businesses have access to the tools, resources, and networks they need to grow.”

Trevor Drummond, owner of Flourish, said the event provided guidance and support for business owners navigating operational challenges.

“Running a small business can be overwhelming, but today gave me clarity and confidence,” Drummond said. “I’m leaving with new ideas, new connections, and a clear plan to grow.”

Organizers said the workshop builds on DoorDash’s Accelerator for Local Businesses initiative, which has supported more than 400 small businesses nationwide since launching in 2021.

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