Thinking About Starting a Business in CT? This Report Says You Should Think Twice

If you're thinking of starting a business in Connecticut, the entrepreneurial website Thumbtack says you might want to reconsider.

In its 2016 survey of small business owners, Connecticut receives an "F" for overall friendliness, according to the site, one of a whole host of F's for the state from a small business perspective.

"In 2016, more than 12,000 U.S. small business owners participated in the study, collectively grading 35 states and 78 cities on the government policies that affect their businesses," wrote Thumbtack. "These skilled professionals operate in a variety of industries, including as electricians, music teachers, wedding planners, wellness professionals, and more."

Other categories Connecticut failed at were:

• Ease of starting a business
• Ease of hiring
• Regulations
• Heath & safety
• Employment, labor & hiring
• Tax code
• Licensing

"It is not easy to have a business in Connecticut," wrote a ballroom dance instructor from Rocky Hill on the site. "The government is running businesses out the state, and people are leaving as well because of the high taxes. I don't think this state is supportive of small businesses."

Two areas where Connecticut did not fail, but only scored D+'s are "Environmental" and "Zoning."

The report's only bright spot for the state? A "B+" for Training & networking programs.

"The local chamber of commerce and the local networking/co-working space have been an immeasurable source of information, connections and clients in my first year of business," wrote a logo designer from New Haven.

Click here to view the full survey on Thumbtack.com.