BRIDGEPORT, CT—Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) visited the Bridgeport Innovation Center today to tour the facility and meet with entrepreneurs and small businesses based at the center. The companies included Carbtrol, a pollution control and wastewater treatment equipment manufacturer, and Bailey, LLC, which provides assistance to startups. The Innovation Center helps support and invest in startups and local small businesses that are driving innovation and job creation in Southwest Connecticut. Himes’ visit marked the third stop on his 17 Towns in 17 Days Tour of the Fourth District.

“America’s future economic growth depends on the success of entrepreneurs and startups like the ones that are growing and creating jobs at the Bridgeport Innovation Center,” Himes said. “These hard-working, forward-thinking individuals are starting and building businesses right here in Bridgeport, and the Innovation Center is providing them the space and resources they need to thrive. As we look for ways to strengthen and invest in our nation’s future, we need to help small, growing companies expand and create jobs.”

“We are thrilled to showcase our 138 tenants to Congressman Himes. Bridgeport Innovation Center is grateful that Congressman Himes shares our excitement in the many successes of our growing small businesses. Our entrepreneurs and small businesses are creating much-needed jobs in Bridgeport and helping to boost the city’s economy,” Bridgeport Innovation Center CEO Sam Pierpont said.

The Bridgeport Innovation Center is a nine-building, 200,000 square-foot facility that offers small and mid-size businesses an entrepreneurial environment in which to run and expand their companies. The Innovation Center offers financing for qualified tenants, competitive and flexible leases, Internet access, and 24-hour security service.