More than 100 nonprofit leaders, elected officials, and community partners gathered on May 20 at Western Connecticut State University for the City of Danbury’s first Nonprofit Summit. The event was organized through a collaboration among Mayor Roberto Alves, United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut, Danbury Collective and The Capitol Hill Group.

The summit focused on strengthening partnerships, sharing resources, and helping local nonprofits better navigate funding opportunities and public policy issues affecting the sector.

“It was powerful to bring together nonprofit leaders, advocates and partners for meaningful conversations,” Mayor Alves wrote on social media following the event.

Participants heard from Matthew J. Pugliese, deputy commissioner and chief investment officer of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, who discussed nonprofit resources and capital funding opportunities available through the agency. Claudio Gualtieri, senior policy advisor at the Office of Policy and Management, shared insights on state policy, legislative advocacy, and stakeholder engagement, helping nonprofit leaders better understand how to navigate government systems and access available resources.

A highlight of the morning was a panel discussion featuring State Rep. Farley Santos, State Sen. Julie Kushner, and David Capiello of The Capitol Hill Group. The panel provided practical guidance on working with state government, advocating for community needs, and seeking legislative support for programs and services that benefit local residents.

Participants also received updates on the state funding landscape and joined discussions on collaboration, advocacy, and strategies for increasing the impact of nonprofit organizations throughout Danbury.

Organizers described the summit as an opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and strengthen collaboration across the nonprofit sector. The event highlighted the vital role nonprofit organizations play in addressing community needs and improving the quality of life for Danbury residents.