A makerspace, a business, a solution to a real problem — the Werth Center gives students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community members the tools, coaching, and funding to build it. Based at Housatonic, reaching all twelve CT State campuses.
One center. Twelve campuses. One statewide network.
Innovation is the umbrella — a new product, a creative process, a piece of art, a better way to solve a problem, or simply becoming more valuable in the job you already have. A business is just one shape it can take. The Werth Center exists to give any of them a place to get built.
Test a concept and build a working prototype with hands-on tools, before you decide what it becomes.
Bring a challenge — yours, your community's, your employer's — and work through it with people trained to think in systems.
Entrepreneurial thinking isn't just for founders. The same skills make you sharper in whatever role you're already in.
If where you land is a business — new or growing — the Werth Center meets you where you are.
Turn an idea into a real prototype, product, or service — and learn what it actually takes to launch.
Already running something? Work with a mentor and sharpen the fundamentals that help it scale.
Makerspace access, expert guidance, and funding pathways — open to makers, founders, and problem-solvers alike. No cost to students, staff, faculty, alumni, or community members.
3D printers, silkscreen, UV imprinter, and a full fashion center with sewing and embroidery.
LLC incorporation guidance, plus business card design and printing to make it real.
One-on-one time with mentors who've started and grown their own businesses.
Encouragement grants, loan guarantees, and pitch competitions with real prize money.
Short, practical sessions on ideation, pricing, pitching, and financial basics.
The Werth Center's programming now runs across CT State's full campus network, so the same coaching, workshops, and funding pathways are reachable no matter which campus you call home.
Businesses helped to start or grow
Awarded to student businesses through pitch events
Network of community partner connections
Campuses reachable through the network
Tour the space, book a coaching session, or just tell us what you're thinking about. There's no wrong way to start.
Contact the Center