Stamford's Gains In The NBC Project

The Connecticut Deparment of Economic and Community Development suggests that will not only promote job growth, but promote the creation and advancement of local small businesses.

"There's going to be additional assistance for small businesses...there's a big focus on innovation," Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development representative Jim Watson said told Patch.

Expanding on DECD's definition of 'innovation', Waters stated that innovation would involve granting $25 million in loans and grants to prospective Connecticut startups.

"In terms of reaction to the NBC project, the positive reaction has been overwhelming," Waters said.

According to Waters, the NBC project may carry tremendous economic benefits for the city of Stamford.

"You've got a business that will not only create 450 jobs, but will be making $100 million in capital investments. The NHL component wasn't even factored into the 450 job count," Waters said.

Specifics in regards to job growth from the NBC project currently exist in the form of legislation. The proposed, yet-to-be named legislation places a strong focus on entrepreneurship, and DECD estimates it could provide $180 million to support small businesses and job growth in Stamford and its neighboring regions.

"It'll have direct and indirect benefits for Stamford and the region...in general, it will make it easier to do business in Connecticut," Waters said.