TEAMING UP TO DRIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Dominican University”™s small-business development program will commence in September on its Orangeburg campus Dominican University, M&T Bank and Bridges, which serves the disabled in the community, have teamed up to drive entrepreneurship and economic development in the lower Hudson Valley. The three-part initiative, beginning with “Unlocking Small-Business Potential,” is designed to empower aspiring new start-ups by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to thrive and compete in today”™s business landscape.   

The program will introduce participants to various industry experts, successful entrepreneurs and experienced business owners and mentors. A seminar will be held at Dominican University on Friday, Sept. 8 from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for those who are ready to strike out on their own. Topics will include business planning, marketing strategies, advice and real-world examples. Those who attend will have an opportunity to enroll in a six-week accelerated incubator and competition that will be held every Wednesday evening, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Throughout the incubator, participants will engage in case competition and showcase their innovative solutions to a panel of judges from industry and community-based investors. Enrollment will begin in August and is limited to 40 participants, who will earn credit toward an undergraduate or graduate degree. Those wishing to continue can enroll in Dominican”™s MBA or MS in Organizational Leadership & Communications.  

 “M&T is committed to investing in the growth and development of emerging leaders in our community and we are proud to be able to support this program, said Tyre Robinson, M&T Tarrytown regional president.  

Registration for “Unlocking Small Business Potential” is $98 and will be capped at 100 participants. For those with economic hardship and/or disabilities, waivers are handled upon request. For more information about enrolling, contact BridgesRC.org.