Dorian Zwierewicz, a Connecticut native with more than a decade of award-winning experience assisting small businesses, is the new state director of the Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC).
He most recently served as the regional director of the Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, Florida. That organization received two awards of excellence last year.
“The best thing about working at the SBDC is our mission to act in a small business’ best interests,’’ he says. “Our advisers love the fact that they see the fruits of our labor, and that we play an active role in building and strengthening our local small-business community.’’
Zwierewicz noted that one of Connecticut’s business strengths is its manufacturing expertise, and he plans to be a strong advocate for international trade and to make sure the state’s reputation for quality is widely recognized.
He is also focused on awareness of business funding availability, the importance of marketing for new customers and reputation management, and the role of artificial intelligence in enhancing business growth.
“I think all SBDCs need to be on the forefront of AI. It can help small companies compete with much larger corporations. It is a real gamechanger for small business,’’ he says, adding that he wants to add training sessions to help small businesses maximize their knowledge and use of AI.
Center Plans to Tap Student, Faculty Expertise
The CTSBDC provides no-cost business advising to small business owners and entrepreneurs in Connecticut. It is part of a national network of centers supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, and UConn.
In 2023, the organization helped launch 170 new businesses, created more than 550 jobs, and helped clients secure $60 million in capital. Zwierewicz was hired after a competitive national search. He began his new job last week.
Among his favorite success stories in Florida was an ambitious entrepreneur who was able to open two successful hotels, and an adjacent restaurant, with help from the SBDC, which helped him find the right location.
Zwierewicz was also able to spearhead a project with a hurricane-shutter company that wanted to expand internationally. Teams of students from Florida Gulf Coast were able to research various Latin American countries that might be worth considering. Zwierewicz hopes to create a similar talent pool at UConn.
He is also excited to work with the business professors at UConn.
“I always say the SBDC is an outreach arm of the college in which it is located,’’ he says. “When that SBDC-UConn badge goes on, it is the best of both worlds, a bridge between business and education.’’
Trading Florida Sun for Connecticut Boots
Zwierewicz grew up in Bristol and still has many family members in Connecticut. He traveled back to the state frequently in recent years, and now says he is willing to trade in the Florida sun and his favorite Cuban sandwiches for winter boots and great pizza.
“Both states have a tremendous culture of entrepreneurship,’’ he says. “What I like about Connecticut is its old-world charm…the Polish, Latin, Italian cultures are a melting pot. I like Connecticut’s historical roots, diverse culture and vibe. I’m really excited about that.’’
“I want people to think of CTSBDC as the premier place for business advice,’’ he says. “I’m also a big believer in bringing the business community together. I want to work closely with the local chambers of commerce and other organizations. We’re not exclusively here for one-on-one business counseling, but also to represent the collective interests of the business community.’’
Predecessor Joe Ercolano Honored for Representing ‘The Very Best of Public Service’
Zwierewicz replaces the retiring Joe Ercolano, who served the organization for 12 years, including seven as state director. He was honored by the Connecticut Economic Development Association with the Kenneth L. Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award on Oct. 30.
“Joe’s leadership has strengthened Connecticut’s entrepreneurial and small business ecosystem in lasting ways,” says Greg Reilly, interim dean of the School of Business. “Through his steady hand and deep understanding of both people and policy, he helped thousands of business owners navigate challenge and opportunity alike. His work reflects the very best of public service—quietly transformative, deeply human, and foundational to the state’s economic vitality.”
