About the Department of Economic and Community Development The Department of Economic and Community Development is the state's lead agency responsible for strengthening Connecticut’s competitive position in the rapidly-changing, knowledge-based global economy. The agency takes a comprehensive approach to economic development that incorporates community development, transportation, education and arts and culture. How We Do It The Department of Economic and Community Development devises and implements strategies that help businesses grow and succeed, revitalize communities and neighborhoods, and promote tourist attractions, the arts, and historic preservation. Specifically, the department: 505 Hudson Street Supports existing businesses and attracts new businesses and jobs with a wide range of programs and services to help companies prosper; Promotes Connecticut industries and businesses here at home, throughout the country, and across the globe; Strengthens Connecticut’s communities by providing funding and technical support for local community and economic development projects; Works to make tourism a leading economic contributor and a source of pride for Connecticut; Develops and strengthens the arts in Connecticut and making artistic experiences widely available to residents and visitors; and Helps to eliminate brownfield properties by promoting smart growth principles, strengthening public-private partnerships, and providing a one-stop resource for expertise.