Binghamton University and Corning Community College collaborate to increase small business services in region

The New York Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) at Binghamton University and Corning Community College will merge effective Oct. 1, to create a comprehensive, full-service organization that will provide assistance to small businesses in 12 New York counties.

“Since 1984, the two independent centers have helped 26,386 local small businesses invest $334,256,199, and create or save 16,243 jobs,” said Rochelle Layman, regional director of the NY SBDC at Binghamton University. “The SBDC is very excited about this merger, as it will increase the types of services offered across our region.”

The new alignment will streamline service delivery to current and aspiring small business owners in the Central Southern Tier. The organization will have small business advisors with specialties in procurement, agricultural business/tourism, lending, SBA products, QuickBooks, succession planning, exporting and technology/innovation.

After the merger, local SBDC advisors will continue to support the community, but with administrative support and oversight from the regional office in Binghamton. NY SBDC at Binghamton University currently has satellite offices in Ithaca and Oneonta. There will be satellite services available throughout the 12-county region.

“The New York State SBDC is committed to providing services to the small businesses and entrepreneurs of the Southern Tier area,” said Brian Goldstein, state director of the New York State SBDC. “We are and will be working with many stakeholders in and around the community to make sure this is accomplished.”

“This new partnership represents a win-win-win scenario,” said Katherine Douglas, president of Corning Community College. “Area entrepreneurs will continue to have convenient access to knowledgeable staff in the Corning area that will have the support of a regional center. Through the collaboration, these experts will have resources and information to assist with decision-making.”

For more information, go online or call 607-777-4024.