The Smaller Manufacturers Association of Connecticut

SMA empowers manufacturing organizations with 500 employees or fewer with the tools, resources, and insights they need to grow and compete. Join us as we celebrate 50 years of progress.

Membership Benefits

Unlock the power of connection. As an SMA member you gain access to advocacy, education, workforce initiatives, and a network that understands the unique challenges of small manufacturers.

Essential Resources

Get the information you need to keep your business strong. SMA connects members with timely resources, funding opportunities, scholarship information, and key industry reports.

Empowering Rising Talent Through SMArt

SMArt connects the next generation of manufacturing professionals through low- or no-cost networking and development opportunities. Member companies can get their emerging leaders involved through fun, engaging events year-round.

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SMA Members

About Us

Supporting the People Who Power Manufacturing

SMA is a trusted voice and partner for the small manufacturing community. We bring together businesses, educators, and leaders to drive growth, build connections, and strengthen the future of our critical industry. Located in Connecticut, our association supports members in New England and Mid-Atlantic states to:

Help manufacturing thrive and grow
Mentor, educate and train our future workforce
Advocate, inform and advise on legislative initiatives
Network and share to help address our shared challenges and opportunities
Combine our voices to increase influence and awareness
Foster the innovative spirit and growth of small manufacturing organizations

Networking & Programs

Connect with industry peers through programs covering supply chains, process improvement, materials, leadership and more. Held in central locations, these events offer opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow your network.

Taxes & Regulations

SMA partners with ACM, CBIA, CONNSTEP, CTMA, EAMA, METAL, NESMA, and NHMA through the Connecticut Manufacturers Collaborative (CMC),and with other regional associations to advocate for small manufacturers. With support from DNB Government Relations of New Haven, members stay informed and represented on key legislative and regulatory issues.

Future Workforce

A strong manufacturing future relies on skilled employees. SMA collaborates with technical, comprehensive, and community colleges to support workforce development programs, helping members connect with and cultivate the next generation of manufacturing talent.

Why Join SMA

Hear From Our Members

See how manufacturers across industries have transformed operations, boosted productivity, and achieved sustainable growth with our support.

My father & I started Century Spring Mfg. in 1976. We were both working 65 hours a week and just breaking even. We didn’t have time to belong to a Trade Association. It wasn’t until I joined the SMA and networked with so many successful business people that our business really began to prosper.”

Although we are a bit different than the average member in our product line, as a manufacturer of handcrafted chocolates we still share many common issues and needs. The SMA has been a great resource with wonderful people and valuable information. We also love that many of the members have become our customers.

I am happy with the ongoing partnership between Kaynor Technical HS Precision Machining and the SMA. For years they’ve supplied our students with many positive career connecting gratuities such as tours, job shadowing, awards and permanent employment. We are happy to have provided and continue to provide quality trainable workers which will continue to fill the local industry.

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