Stronger Together

Join The Smaller Manufacturers Association

Why Join SMA

What a Membership Can Do For You

Joining the Smaller Manufacturers Association (SMA) connects you to a community of peers, resources, tools and advocacy designed to help the small manufacturing ecosystem thrive. From workforce development and industry insights to networking and legislative support, SMA membership equips your business for success and prepares it to grow today and prepare for the future.

Why Should You Join a Trade Association for Small Manufacturers? Explore the Top 10 Reasons to Join SMA.

Connect with Industry Peers

Meet and collaborate with of other small manufacturing companies to share ideas, challenges, and best practices.

Access Funding & Programs

Learn about grants, subsidies, and funding opportunities from experts and industry leaders to help your business grow.

Amplify Your Voice

Have your concerns, business challenges and perspectives heard through SMA’s active advocacy and legislative efforts.

Find Suppliers and Services

Tap into a qualified network of providers that support the unique needs of small businesses and the small manufacturing community.

Develop Your Future Leaders

Give up-and-coming employees access to training, knowledge, and a network of peers to build tomorrow’s workforce.

Engaging Social Events

Take part in fun signature events like SMA’s annual golf outing and, after-event networking sessions for insightful conversations and connection-building.

Stay Informed on Industry Trends

Attend regular events, programs, and workshops covering topics such as process improvement, supply chain, and legislation.

Access Scholarships

Support youth and your workforce with exclusive members-only access to manufacturing scholarship opportunities funded by the SMA.

Attract and Grow Talent

Learn strategies designed for small manufacturers to train and retain skilled employees, ensuring a strong and sustainable workforce through our SMArt resources.

Be Part of a Community

Join a supportive, collaborative community where members genuinely help one another. SMA is like a big family welcoming you to the table.

Hear from Our Members

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.

Designed for Small Manufacturers

Advocacy, Resources & Programming That Supports Your Business

SMA membership goes beyond networking and education, providing you access to scholarships, advocacy, and workforce initiatives designed specifically to help small manufacturing businesses thrive. From shaping legislation to developing tomorrow’s skilled workforce, SMA delivers tangible support that directly impacts small manufacturers across Connecticut, New England and surrounding states.

Advocacy That Works

SMA works through the Connecticut Manufacturers Collaborative (CMC) to advocate for small manufacturers, retaining lobbyists and providing members updates and opportunities to influence key legislation.

Tomorrow’s Talent, Today

SMA partners with local schools to develop talent in CNC, welding, and lean manufacturing, connecting students with member companies and recognizing top performers. Our exclusive scholarships help members and their families pursue trade or certificate education.

Learn, Connect, Grow

Regular programming offers practical guidance on leadership, operations, sales, and regulations—while strengthening collaboration and trust across the SMA manufacturing community.

Grow Your Future Leaders

SMArt: A Member-Exclusive Program for Rising Talent

When you join SMA, your company can tap into SMArt, a program designed to develop your next generation of leaders. From skills-building to develop a network of peers who are rising in our industry, SMArt equips emerging employees to grow within your company and the industry.

Explore our SMArt rising talent program and its resources, including:

Learn About Our Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Group

Get Smart

Become a Member and Find Your Community

If you have questions about membership or want to learn more about how SMA can support your business, reach out today. Our team is ready to help you get started.

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