The Hartford Small Business Accelerator Virtual Summer 2026 Program

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The Hartford Small Business Accelerator Virtual Summer 2026 Program, hosted on Main Street America’s Small Business Hub, will bring 30 small-scale producers, makers, artisans and creators together for a summer of facilitated and peer-to-peer learning opportunities.  

This high-impact, hybrid learning experience is designed to help entrepreneurs scale operations, expand e-commerce, and increase sales. Through expert-led sessions, practical self-paced courses, and powerful peer connections, participants gain the tools and strategies needed to turn production capacity into measurable revenue growth. 

Eligible communities have been selected to nominate small-scale manufacturers based on their demonstrated commitment to entrepreneurial ecosystem work. This virtual accelerator program is different from The Hartford Small Business Accelerator Grant Program supporting physical spaces that closed at the end of April. Learn more about our partnership with The Hartford here. 

Please complete the nomination form between now and June 7, 2026.

Program Details: 

Nomination Acceptance Dates: May 1, 2026 – June 7, 2026 

Program Dates: June 16, 2026 – September 3, 2026 

Cost: FREE 

Program Highlights: 

  1. Self-Paced, On-demand Courses 
  2. Peer-to-Peer learning with small-scale manufacturers 
  3. Facilitated Live Sessions with subject matter experts 
  4. 12-week program designed for makers that allows both structure and flexibility 

Program Eligibility: 

  1. A small-scale producer, maker, artisan, or creator that makes or finishes a product in your community.  
  2. The business owner is available and willing to dedicate at least 1-2 hours per week to the learning and peer      community.  
  3. The business owner must sign a commitment letter to complete the Accelerator Program.  
  4. The business owner is ready to scale one or more areas of their business 
  5. The business owner must be nominated by a Main Street accredited or affiliate program  

* Small-Scale producers will be able to self-nominate but priority will be given to small-scale producers that are referred by Main Street programs.  

Questions can be directed to smallbizaccelerator@mainstreet.org. 

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