North Central Small Business Development Center

We are thrilled to announce that as of December 1st, the Onondaga Watertown SBDC will be known as the North Central SBDC! This new name better reflects the 8-county region we serve across Central New York and the North Country, including Cayuga, Cortland, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego, and Seneca counties. Since 1984, we've been proud to offer no-cost, confidential advisement services to entrepreneurs at every stage of the business journey. With this name change, our commitment to empowering small businesses and fostering economic growth remains as strong as ever. A special thanks to Warren Hilton, Ed.D., President of Onondaga Community College, and our Regional Advisory Board for their guidance during this transition. Read more on our Blog: https://lnkd.in/eWYft_E5

CenterState CEO's Economic Champions Celebration, presented by FustCharles and AmeriCU Credit Union, recognizes contributions to the growth of the Central New York economy. These include new jobs, new businesses, DEI commitments, company milestones, business expansions and investments in operations, and more. Here are just some of the incredible contributions of the 306 Economic Champions honored in 2024. #EconomicChampion Congratulations: ALLYN FAMILY FOUNDATION / Chimes Syracuse LLC, Berkshire Bank, Central New York Biotech Accelerator, Upstate Medical University, CPS Recruitment, Chocolate Pizza Company, Inc, Drakos Urgent Care, Eastern Security Services, ElleRae's Tacos, Food Bank of Central New York, FustCharles, the GENIUS NY 2024 Winners, Greek Peak Mountain Resort, Hancock Estabrook, LLP, Home Sweet Home Cleaning LLC, Impel, Kitty Hoynes Irish Pub & Restaurant, Lockheed Martin, LOTTE BIOLOGICS USA, LLC, M.A. Polce, Michael Sgro Leadership Coaching / OUT Syracuse, Micron Technology, Nascentia Health, NBT Bank, NUAIR, Onondaga | Watertown Small Business Development Center (New York SBDC), PPC Broadband, Inc. - A Belden Brand, Port of Oswego Authority CNY Agricultural Center, @Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central New York, State University of New York at Oswego, THOMPSON AND JOHNSON EQUPMENT CO., INC and VIP Structures.

As we continue celebrating Veteran Small Business Week, we’re proud to spotlight Dr. Logan Curtis DDS, a veteran and inspiring entrepreneur. After completing his service in the Army, Dr. Curtis opened Upstate Oral Surgery and Dental Implants in Watertown, NY. Launching a business without prior experience wasn’t easy, but his dedication and vision have turned Upstate Oral Surgery into a thriving practice with a full team of 15, including multiple surgeons, and plans for a new office. Dr. Curtis’s journey is a testament to the strength, resilience, and commitment veterans bring to our communities. Thank you, Dr. Curtis, for your service and for contributing to Watertown’s health and growth. #VeteransInBusiness

In honor of Veterans National Small Business Week, we’re celebrating Jerry Graziano, a local veteran and dedicated business owner who exemplifies resilience, vision, and community service. After six years in the Air Force in communications security at Griffiss Airforce Base in Rome, NY, Jerry started his entrepreneurial journey with a basement repair business in the Rome area. A fire in his first business required him to work closely with his insurance agent—a pivotal moment that sparked his interest in the insurance industry. He eventually transitioned fully into insurance, moving to the Seneca Falls area in the late 90s. Recognizing a need for local, personalized insurance options, Jerry opened Legacy Insurance Agency of the Fingerlakes in 2022. His deep commitment to his clients and his faith-led approach make him a trusted advisor and valued asset to his community. When asked for his keys to success, Jerry, who also serves as an area pastor, shared three guiding principles: ? Be purposeful in faith. ? Have a clear and well-defined vision. ? Be deliberate in execution. And, as he would add, “Have fun along the way!” Jerry brings this energy to his work and even shares his expertise with budding entrepreneurs in SBDC’s Fast Track program. #VeteransSmallBusinessWeek

Celebrate National Stress Awareness Day by adding mindful practices to your routine to boost your entrepreneurial mindset and overcome business challenges! ?? ??? Deep Breathing: Relax anywhere ? Take a Break: Dedicate time to unwind ??♀? Yoga: Relax your muscles ?? Laugh It Off: Release endorphins ??♀? Take a Walk: Clear your mind Prioritizing stress management is key to business success. Embrace these habits to thrive both personally and professionally!

Attention ?? Our Watertown center will be closed from Nov 5th -11th. If you need assistance, please contact our Regional center.

Whether you're running a business or gathering treats, we hope today brings you plenty of spooky success and sweet surprises! ????? Remember, if your entrepreneurial dreams are haunting you, we’re here to help turn them into reality—no tricks, just treats! ??

Don't miss our upcoming Virtual Fast Track to Small Business Workshop, led by certified business advisor, Kellie Greene, CGBP, MBA. The 20 hour workshop over 3 days covers everything you need to know about starting & growing your business. It also includes other industry expert presenters that will be sharing valuable insight! ?? Dates: Nov 12, 14 & 19th ?? Time: 9am - 4:30 (each day) ?? Location: Virtual Register: https://buff.ly/40mZa6c

We are excited to officially announce that our very own Keyona Kelly has assumed the role of Assistant Director at the Onondaga | Watertown SBDC! ?? Keyona has been an integral part of our team as a highly successful Certified Business Advisor for 7+ years, helping entrepreneurs and small businesses start, grow and succeed. Her dedication, expertise, and passion for supporting small businesses have made a huge impact throughout Central New York. The entire Regional SBDC team is delighted to welcome her to this new leadership role. Please join us in congratulating Keyona as she takes on this exciting next chapter with us! ???

We have 2 open positions available at our Watertown outreach location: ? Senior Business Advisor (Full time) ? Associate Business Advisor (Part time) Apply HERE: https://lnkd.in/emc4UvSJ