State Sen. Paul Cicarella joined federal, state, and local officials on Apr. 15 to recognize Novel Aero and its President and CEO, Yoganandan “Yogi” Tharinibalan, as the 2026 National Small Business Exporter of the Year. The award was presented by the U.S. Small Business Administration during National Small Business Week at Novel Aero’s headquarters in Wallingford.
The event highlighted the significance of small businesses in driving economic growth and innovation within Connecticut and beyond. Leaders from across the region gathered to celebrate Novel Aero’s achievements in advanced aerospace manufacturing and international trade.
Cicarella presented an official state citation to Tharinibalan, acknowledging his leadership, innovation, and contributions to job creation in Connecticut’s economy. “It is an honor to recognize Yogi Tharinibalan for this outstanding achievement,” said Sen. Cicarella. “His commitment to excellence in aerospace manufacturing and their success in expanding into international markets exemplify the ingenuity and determination that define Connecticut’s small business community. Companies like Novel Aero are not only creating jobs here at home but are also strengthening our state’s reputation on the global stage.”
The citation formally recognized Tharinibalan for leading Novel Aero to be named Exporter of the Year by the SBA, for his role in advancing aerospace manufacturing, supporting job creation, contributing to economic growth, and representing Connecticut’s resilient small business sector.
Under Tharinibalan’s leadership, Novel Aero has become a significant player in aerospace exports with customers in more than ten countries while contributing both regionally and nationally.
“When a company like Novel Aero succeeds, it lifts up our workforce, our communities, and our future,” Cicarella said.
This recognition forms part of National Small Business Week activities organized by the SBA each year to honor entrepreneurs’ contributions nationwide.
