WATERBURY — The Waterbury Regional Chamber will celebrate a local entrepreneur and two standout businesses at its 27th Annual Harold Webster Smith Awards on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Aria Wedding & Banquet Facility in Prospect. This annual breakfast recognizes businesses and entrepreneurs who demonstrate innovation, community engagement, and excellence in small business.

Entrepreneur of the Year:
Courtney Ligi, founder of The Social Circle, LLC, will receive the Entrepreneur of the Year award. Since launching her agency in 2021, Ligi has worked closely with small business owners to craft personalized social media strategies that boost brand awareness and engagement. A former membership director with the Waterbury Regional Chamber, she is deeply involved in the community through organizations such as the Watertown Foundation, the United Way of Naugatuck and Beacon Falls, and the Mattatuck Museum. Ligi’s entrepreneurial journey began as a Poshmark reseller and expanded to co-own Jimmy’s of Watertown, a family-run restaurant serving the community since 2001. In June 2025, she opened a new office on Waterbury Road in Prospect.

Small Business of the Year:
Allstar Home Appliance Center of Waterbury, founded in 1984 by John and Pamela Ciccio, will receive the Small Business of the Year award. Known for personal service, product expertise, and customer care, Allstar offers appliance sales and service across leading brands including Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid. The business, located at 1215 Thomaston Ave., provides both new and scratch-and-dent inventory, helping customers find high-quality, affordable options.

Manufacturer of the Year:
Carpin Manufacturing, Inc., also based in Waterbury, will be honored as Manufacturer of the Year. Founded in 1984, Carpin is a leading producer of metal-stamped and plastic-injection molded products serving industries ranging from education and office furniture to industrial equipment. With nearly 3,000 SKUs and a skilled workforce averaging 20 years of experience, Carpin continues to drive Connecticut manufacturing excellence through innovation, quality, and customer partnerships.

Event Highlights:

• Keynote Speaker: Sean Scanlon, Comptroller of the State of Connecticut.
• Premier Sponsor: Webster Bank
• Supporting Business Sponsors: Carpin Manufacturing, Inc. and Ives Bank
• Small Business Sponsors: Fascia’s Chocolates, Inc.; Green Wealth Management Group, LLC; JCSmith Advisors; Muni Insurance; Pisani Steel Fabrication, Inc.; Powerstation Events; Prospect Memorial – The Palmerie Family Funeral Home; TBI Construction, a Tomasso Company; The Next Street; Winvian Farm; WORX