CIED News
2024:
Accounting students net great returns in ‘one-on-one’ client connections through VITA internships
A profitable learning experience awaits Accounting students, whose career plans may include working directly with individual clients, through Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) internships coordinated by the SUNY Fredonia School of Business.
Every tax season, Accounting and Public Accountancy students help local residents file their state and federal income tax forms through VITA, an initiative of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that provides free tax preparation services, in collaboration with the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County.
Student Business Competition winners to present at Blue Lounge
The Center for Innovation and Economic Development will be featuring past business competition winners in a Student Business Competition Showcase on Thursday, March 21, at noon.
During the upcoming event JoJo Johnson, founder of “Jawnz” a women’s streetwear company, and Connor Raposa, founder of “C_RPhotos,” will discuss the experiences they had as they navigated through the competition.
Crunch Factory leaders to present at Founders Series Luncheon
The Center for Innovation and Economic Development will be hosting Crunch Roll Factory at the Founder’s Luncheon Series on Wednesday, March 20.
During the luncheon, founders of Crunch Factory, Mark and Zach Bohn, will share their exciting journey as entrepreneurs, which originally launched with the StartUp NY program.
Ramsey, Nash to appear in ‘Women in Music Industry’ symposium
SUNY Fredonia alumna Mary Ramsey, lead vocalist of 10,000 Maniacs, and Leigh Nash, of Sixpence None the Richer ¬– both alternative rock groups – will be featured in the Women in Music Industry symposium at the Williams Center Blue Lounge on Tuesday, Feb. 27, at noon.
Both musicians will describe their journeys in the industry and the business side of the arts in this series sponsored by SUNY Fredonia’s Music Industry program and the Center for Innovation and Economic Development, formerly known as the SUNY Fredonia Technology Incubator.
SUNY Fredonia professor to explore smart road monitoring system
SUNY Distinguished Professor Junaid Zubairi will discuss the design and development of a smart road monitoring system at the Center for Innovation and Economic Development, formerly known as the SUNY Fredonia Technology Incubator, on Wednesday, Feb. 21, at 10 a.m.
Capabilities of the system include detection and enumeration of vehicles, average speed of traffic passing an observation point, detection of rain, snow and other weather-related conditions and the detection of accidents and crashes in real-time.
Nickerson to present incubator talk on accounting and budgeting
The Fredonia Technology Incubator will be conducting a workshop, “Accrual Accounting and Budgeting” presented by Dr. Mark Nickerson of the School of Business faculty, on Wednesday, Nov. 29.
During the workshop, Dr. Nickerson will discuss accounting and budgeting, utilizing QuickBooks online for accrual accounting, why accrual accounting provides better information for small businesses, and how budgeting in QuickBooks can keep your business on track.
Holz to kick off Writers@Work series
SUNY Fredonia alumnus Karl Holz, ’73, is the guest for the first Writers@Work series event of the 2023-2024 academic year, “The Art of Storytelling: New Perspectives, Innovative Thinking and Creative Solutions,” on Oct. 18 and 19.
Mr. Holz, who earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, is former President of Disney Cruise Line and New Vacation Operations. A 22-year veteran of the Walt Disney Company, Mr. Holz has deep expertise in building organizational culture, customer experience, operations, strategic planning, international business and start-up ventures. In 2004, Mr. Holz was appointed President and COO of Disneyland Resort Paris, and shortly thereafter, became Chairman and CEO. Currently, Mr. Holz is a Senior Advisor at McKinsey & Company. He is also a board member for CRUISE SAUDI, Radisson Hotel Group and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Village Resort.
Music Education alumnus brings his Beatbox House troupe to campus for ‘one-of-a-kind’ performance
Students had a front-row seat to experience Beatbox – a growing musical style phenomenon that pushes the boundaries of sounds that can be produced by the human voice – courtesy of ’12 alumnus Chris Celiz, who brought members of his Beatbox House – a collective of world champion Beatboxers – to campus.
“We just make music; we don’t use any instruments – that’s an easier version of how to describe it,” Mr. Celiz said in describing Beatbox. “We’re kind of like a rock band, but we (create music) with our mouths.”
Incubator continues Art and Business series of programs
In the latest installment of its Arts and Business Luncheon Series, The Fredonia Technology Incubator welcomes Livi Perrone, founder of a multimedia development and production company.
During the luncheon she will share her entrepreneurial journey. The luncheon is free and open to the public and will take place at the incubator on Friday, March 24, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Refreshments will be provided.
Incubator workshop to present overview of intellectual property
A workshop that examines intellectual property will be conducted by SUNY Research Foundation representatives Lance Reich and Tanya Waite at the Fredonia Technology Incubator on Thursday, April 13, from noon to 2 p.m.
As a part of the incubator’s Entrepreneurial Education Program, the presentation will provide an overview of intellectual property and all the resources and support services the SUNY RF provides, including all aspects technology transfer lifecycle and new venture support services. The workshop is free and open to the public.
Senior behind award-winning start-up apparel firm to give ‘Spotlight’ presentation
Jeremy Casso-Garcia, who won the Fredonia Technology Incubator’s Fall 2022 Student Business Competition with his start-up clothing brand Bluestripss Apparel, will be featured in the Student Business Spotlight at the Williams Center Horizon Room on Thursday, April 6, at noon.
After graduating from New Design High School, a fashion design-oriented school in New York City that has a significant focus on sustainability and economic growth, Mr. Casso-Garcia, a senior Business Administration major, realized that the fashion industry would be one of the first industries upon which he would leave his mark.
Dunkirk business students tour incubator
The Fredonia Technology Incubator welcomed 20 students from Dunkirk Senior High School for a tour of the incubator and its Innovation Design Studio and to hear presentations by an award-winning student entrepreneur and multimedia developer on March 24.
Students were given an in-depth look at what it takes to start a business and at lessons learned and how to grow in the industry. They also engaged in a candid discussion with incubator client Ted Sharon, of Play on Arts. A professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance, Mr. Sharon is the creator of Venture Productions and owner of Main Street Studios, a downtown Fredonia event venue for theater, film, live music, dance, business and cultural activities. Sharon has been an incubator client since 2014.
SUNY Incubator provides creative freedom for students
The SUNY Fredonia Technology Incubator, located on Central Avenue in Dunkirk, has been a source of mystery and curiosity in the community since its inception.
“There is a sense of ‘What goes on in there?’ “ Incubator Director Chuck Cornell said of the Dunkirk facility.
At a recent open house of the SUNY Fredonia Technology Incubator, some of that mystery was addressed. Beginning with a short introduction, Cornell and Project Coordinator Lauri Gawronski welcomed an audience of the public at the open house, before taking the guests on a tour of the facilities.
“It’s really become kind of a central meeting place for economic development opportunities,” Cornell said. “We’re very happy about that.”
Incubator to host ‘Customer Discovery’ educational workshop
Accomplished entrepreneur David Thiemecke will present an entrepreneurial education workshop, “Customer Discovery,” at the Fredonia Technology Incubator, 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk, on Wednesday, March 15, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Topics such as the top reasons why startups fail, why it’s important to focus on the customer and underserved needs, how to walk in a customer’s shoes and how to validate the job to be done by one’s venture, will be covered in the presentation.
Mr. Thiemecke has started 12 businesses and exited two since 1998, most recently with ServiceTitan acquiring Pointman. He has two current jobs: investment fund manager at Startup Ventures Team at the State University at Buffalo and entrepreneur-in-residence at Launch NY. Additionally, he has had three prior jobs, including Vice President of Business Development at Field Nimble.
IRS independent contractor tax law focus of incubator workshop
The Fredonia Technology Incubator will conduct an IRS Tax Law (1099) vs. employee workshop presented by School of Business Lecturer Mark Nickerson at the incubator, located at 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk, on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at noon. The workshop is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
During the workshop, Dr. Nickerson will review a 20-point checklist to determine whether or not a person is a contractor or an employee and answer questions regarding federal and state tax laws.
Fredonia alumnus awards scholarships to Business students
Crediting SUNY Fredonia as the foundation of his successful career in business, 1975 graduate George Simmons has created and subsequently awarded four scholarships to three students and one recent graduate – all enrolled in the School of Business.
Mr. Simmons, senior partner of Derby Management, a Boston-based sales and marketing consulting firm, returned to his alma mater in January to present $500 scholarships to Morgan Giglio, a December ’22 graduate with a Business Administration degree; Rachel Dunn, a junior Business Administration: Management major; Sarah Slate, a senior majoring in Public Accountancy and Business Administration: Management; and Cody Flett, a senior majoring in Business Administration: Management.
All four students were recognized as top performers in BUAD 350: Special Topics: Business to Business Selling in the fall 2022 semester.
Senior wins incubator Student Business Competition
Casso-Garcia is a first-generation college student. After graduating from New Design High School, a fashion design-oriented high school with a significant focus on sustainability and economic growth, he realized that the fashion industry would be one of the first industries on which he would leave his mark.
Casso-Garcia wins incubator Student Business Competition
The Fredonia Technology Incubator announces Jeremy Casso-Garcia, a senior Business Administration major from the Bronx, as the winner of its Eighth Annual Student Business Competition.
After careful deliberation, a panel of independent judges determined the winner after three finalists concluded their pitch presentations.
The grand prize winner was Bluestripss Apparel (BSA), a fashion design startup founded by Mr. Casso-Garcia, its CEO, with the mission to create apparel in which every individual will have the opportunity to style the product in their own unique manner. Bluestripss Apparel offers a large range of fashionable products that attract individuals from different demographic backgrounds.
Job & Internship Expo set March 1 at Williams Center
Fredonia’s Career Development Office (CDO) will host its annual Job & Internship Expo on Wednesday, March 1, from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Williams Center. The event is free and open to current students as well as Fredonia alumni.
Immediately following the expo, the Fredonia Technology Incubator will provide transportation to and from their facility to host an Incubator Showcase & Open House, using the appropriate form, for any students interested in learning more about their internship and entrepreneurial opportunities.
The Statement - page 11
The Fredonia Technology Incubator is developing an alumni network of founders, entrepreneurs, economic development personnel and investors to formally involve alumni as mentors, speakers, supporters and internship hosts at the incubator.
VITA at SUNY Fredonia Technology Incubator
Provides free in-person tax preparation to individuals with household income of $73,000 or less. Returns are prepared by IRS certified volunteers.
Building a budget the topic of SUNY Fredonia incubator workshop
As part of its Entrepreneurial Education Program, the Fredonia Technology Incubator will present a building a budget workshop to be conducted by School of Business Lecturer Mark Nickerson, on Wednesday, Oct. 26, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Dr. Nickerson will discuss how to build and maintain budgets for small business and personal finances at the workshop, which is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.
‘Effective Pitch Presentation’ focus of workshop at incubator
A workshop, “Effective Pitch Presentation,” will be presented by Jack McGowan, project manager at Insyte Consulting and director of the WNY Venture Association/Buffalo Angels, at the Fredonia Technology Incubator on Tuesday, Oct. 11, from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Mr. McGowan will discuss key elements that an entrepreneur's pitch should include: how to tailor a pitch to the situation and audience, common mistakes, things not to say and, lastly, what happens after the pitch and the need to be prepared.
After Rough Start, Incubator Marks 15 Years In City
The Fredonia Technology Incubator has stood in downtown Dunkirk for 15 years. The incubator’s head, Charles Cornell, says it has made a loud impact with the community.
“There have been three key developments that began in 2014,” he said. “First, we have significantly increased SUNY Fredonia student involvement at the incubator. We have developed an annual student business competition, several internships each semester, and a summer entrepreneurial fellowship program. We also have the innovation design studio, which includes high performance computers and recording equipment. The studio was driven by student interest and we obtained private funding to support the purchase of the equipment and furniture.
Workshops at technology incubator to share tips for starting a business
Two impactful workshops designed to educate aspiring entrepreneurs on the first steps of starting a business and developing an effective investor pitch will be held as part of the ongoing entrepreneurial education series at the Fredonia Technology Incubator.
In “So You Want to Start a Business,” School of Business Lecturer Mark Nickerson will cover topics such as laying out the steps of starting a venture and processes that need to be considered that include choice of entity, payroll registrations, sales tax registration, obtaining a business account and QuickBooks subscriptions.
“Developing an Effective Investor Pitch,” by Jack McGowan of Insyte Consulting, will cover topics that include the importance of being investor-focused, tailoring a pitch to the situation and audience and key elements that a pitch should include as well as common mistakes and things not to say.
What it’s like being a small business owner and a full-time SUNY Fredonia student
“Like it or not, being a student is also a full-time job, so finding time for both, and to [set] goals for each is essential,” said Emma Stack, senior social studies adolescent education major and owner of StackedByEmma. Stack started her jewelry business back in the Spring of 2021. StackedByEmma sells handmade bracelets, wire wrapped necklaces, phone charms and even zodiac jewelry.
Another small business owner, Mary Conover, a childhood inclusive education major, had to completely relocate her business and life for her fall semester of senior year. Conover owns YoungMaronnaise, a tie-dye sock and miscellaneously creative business.
Fortunately, these small business owners have a reliable and local support system at their disposal. The Fredonia Technology Incubator, a business development service, works with external partners to promote economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship and development of new companies.
Tech Incubator To Present Workshop
As part of its Entrepreneurial Education Program, The Fredonia Technology Incubator will be conducting a workshop entitled “Finding Talent in Uncertain Times” presented by Rich Koerner.
The workshop will identify the major factors impacting the ability to staff your organization with qualified and motivated individuals.
“The Entrepreneurial Education Program provides entrepreneurs with useful, hands on information and an opportunity to ask questions to leading experts in their field,” said Chuck Cornell, incubator director. “High quality entrepreneurial workshops are a key part of our services and programming we provide.”
Entrepreneurial Education Program continues at incubator
As part of its signature Entrepreneurial Education Program, the Fredonia Technology Incubator will be conducting a workshop “Getting Started with QuickBooks online,” on Oct. 8 at noon.
Guest presenter Mark Nickerson, CPA, CMA, MBA, will discuss which subscription is right for different purposes, how to import bank transactions directly and understand basic financial statements, and how to ensure accurate financial reporting with QuickBooks.
Fredonia Technology Incubator to host ‘Recipe for Success’ virtual workshop
The Fredonia Technology Incubator will be hosting a workshop entitled “Recipe for Success” with Shannon Prozeller of Cornell Food Venture Center at Cornell University from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 28.
Prozeller received her bachelor of science degree in community health from the State University at Brockport. She began her career in the food industry at Headwater Food Hub in Ontario, N.Y., as director of the Good Food Collective, a year-round food membership program, also acting as director of food safety and supply chain manager, coordinating partnerships with more than 30 farmers and producers throughout the Finger Lakes region.
Rotary Thursday 12 Noon 7-21-22 Kids & Sibs Camp Guest Speaker - Laurie Reynolds
Laurie Reynolds is the Associate Director at Prevention Works. She has been employed by this agency since 2005. Her Degree is Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction through Fredonia State. Her passions have always focused on educating youth; however, recently it’s been about advocating for youth with disabilities as well as their siblings. She is the co-chair of the LEICC Intervention Group as well as the Gaps in Services sub-committee through Chautauqua County.
In June 2019, Prevention Works partnered with the Parent Network of WNY to provide a presentation on “Challenging Behaviors” for the community. From that collaboration, a partnership was formed to address the gaps and services in the county and a way to provide families and caregivers in Chautauqua County a safe place to discuss their frustrations and successes.
Barrel + Brine proprietors to share their success story at incubator talk
R.J. and Lindsey Marvin will trace how they launched Barrel + Brine in Buffalo, outline what challenges and obstacles they faced along the way and indicate how their business is currently positioned, in a virtual founder’s lunch-hour talk hosted by the Fredonia Technology Incubator on Wednesday, March 31, from noon to 1 p.m.
“This is a terrific opportunity to hear from successful entrepreneurs in a food-related industry,” said incubator Director Chuck Cornell. “We are looking forward to them sharing their story with us.”
Incubator to host intellectual property, copyright workshop
Intellectual property and copyright for creative works will be explored at a virtual workshop, conducted by The Research Foundation for SUNY Associate Director for Innovation Services Steven Wood and hosted by the Fredonia Technology Incubator, on Friday, March 5, from 10 to 11 a.m.
Mr. Wood assists with providing technology commercialization services to the 23 SUNY campuses with centralized tech transfer. He has worked with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and is a licensed U.S. patent attorney.
Maximizing LinkedIn opportunities topic of incubator workshop
The Fredonia Technology Incubator will continue its Entrepreneurial Education Program with a virtual workshop designed to assist entrepreneurs and startups in maximizing their opportunities on LinkedIn, an online service used primarily for professional networking.
Entrepreneur and eCommerce expert Curt Anderson will conduct the workshop, presented by B2Btail.com, on Thursday, Nov. 19, from noon to 1 p.m. “The Entrepreneurial Education Program provides entrepreneurs with useful, hands-on information and an opportunity to ask presenters questions,” said Incubator Director Chuck Cornell.
“High quality and interactive entrepreneurial workshops such as this are a key part of our services and programming we provide at the incubator,” Mr. Cornell said.
Pipitone to speak in incubator’s Arts & Business Luncheon series
Award-winning songwriter and guitarist Alison Pipitone will share her story and offer a look at the business side of her career at a virtual event in the Arts and Business Luncheon Series at the Fredonia Technology Incubator on Thursday, Nov. 5, from noon to 1 p.m.
“The Arts and Business Luncheon Series offers a unique insight into the business side of the arts,” said Incubator Director Chuck Cornell. “I’m thrilled that Alison will share her story and field some audience questions. High quality and interactive programs such as this are a key part of what we do here at the incubator.”
Legal advice for startups is focus of incubator workshop
A virtual workshop, designed to assist entrepreneurs and startups by presenting an overview of key legal issues, will be presented on Wednesday, Oct. 28, by attorney Michael Borrello as part of the continuing Entrepreneurial Education Program at the Fredonia Technology Incubator.
Mr. Borrello, of Phillips Lytle LLP, a Buffalo legal firm, will offer an overview of key issues facing start-up companies that include a discussion of IP issues (patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets) and corporate formation issues. The workshop will also cover information on entity choice considerations and how to structure a business to increase efficiency in day-to-day operations, as well as, anticipate funding hurdles.
Fredonia grad teams up with incubator to develop business sales course
George Simmons, who received a B.A. in Political Science in 1975 from Fredonia and is now a senior partner at a sales and marketing consulting firm based in Boston, Mass., has engaged with his alma mater to fulfill what he believes is an essential market need – graduates with experience in selling – that’s not being met.
Working with Fredonia Technology Incubator Director Chuck Cornell, Mr. Simmons offered his time, expertise and financial resources to support the planning and launch of an initial course, BUAD 350: Special Topics. Business to Business Selling, at Fredonia.
“Sales is not what it has been perceived to be for many years; it is something I have been passionate about for most of my life,” said Simmons, a senior partner at Derby Management for the last 19 years. “Careers in sales (especially inside sales) are not just high paying, they are one of the most satisfying – you are providing better solutions to business problems. The trouble is there are not enough trained graduates in this field.
“I think SUNY Fredonia can be on the cutting edge in solving this workforce need and graduating more career-ready students,” Simmons said.
Incubator business competition winner launches music lesson service
Two Fredonia seniors, Olivia Soto and Niklas Dahlen, who won the Fredonia Technology Incubator’s fifth annual Student Business Competition, officially formed a new business, Lessons Learned, LLC., during the summer through the support and services provided by the incubator.
“I am pleased that we have another new business forming in Chautauqua County as a result of this competition that showcases the outstanding entrepreneurial talent of students of SUNY Fredonia,” said Chuck Cornell, incubator director.
Entries being accepted for incubator’s Student Business Competition
The Fredonia Technology Incubator will hold its sixth Annual Student Business Competition, providing an opportunity for students at Fredonia to submit a business proposal, present a pitch and compete for admittance into the Incubator and receive other prizes.
“We have exceptional entrepreneurs at SUNY Fredonia and this competition provides students with a direct pathway to forming a startup,” said Chuck Cornell, incubator director. “This program has also been a partnership with the community to promote retention of talented individuals.”
The Fredonia Student Business Competition is a business idea competition that has led to several new business formations. Most student businesses competition winners and runners-up have experienced significant progress after receiving Incubator services.
Virtual workshop for entrepreneurs set at incubator
The Fredonia Technology Incubator is continuing its Entrepreneurial Education Program with a virtual workshop designed to assist entrepreneurs and startups with taxes and accounting and conducted by School of Business Lecturer Mark Nickerson, a small business owner and CPA.
“The Entrepreneurial Education Program provides entrepreneurs with useful, hands-on information and an opportunity to ask presenters questions,” said Incubator Director Chuck Cornell. “High quality and interactive entrepreneurial workshops such as this are a key part of our services and programming we provide at the incubator.”
Fredonia Technology Incubator conducts fifth annual Student Business Competition
The Center for Innovation & Economic Development (CIED) conducted its fifth annual Student Business Competition, this year in a virtual format. The four finalists were judged by five independent judges. The grand prize winner receives $1,200 and office space at the Incubator.
This year’s grand prize winner was Lessons Learned, a music lesson service that allows customers to cultivate their talent and artistry in an environment designed to motivate and encourage their goals and aspirations. SUNY Fredonia students Olivia Soto and Niklas Dahlen head the team. Lessons Learned provides a connection between students and professionals from SUNY Fredonia and interested students in the surrounding area, facilitating a comfortable and professional experience between them. The startup hires individual local teachers to teach music lessons.
Incubator workshop to help entrepreneurs transition from business idea to reality
A workshop designed to help entrepreneurs transform their business idea to reality, using the Business Model Canvas as a foundation document, will be held at the Fredonia Technology Incubator, 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk, on Thursday, Feb. 27, from 10 a.m. to noon.
Jerry Adamski, president of CAL Solutions, will conduct the session that offers lecture content and an interactive workshop. Tools and techniques to validate facts or supporting information to move from a business idea to a startup will be presented and customer segments and corresponding value propositions will be identified.
Young to lead entrepreneurial talk on food, beverage, agriculture at incubator
Entrepreneurial opportunities in food, beverage and agricultural sectors will be the focus of a discussion, led by Catharine Young of Cornell AgriTech, on Wednesday, Feb. 19, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., at the Fredonia Technology Incubator, 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk.
A former state senator, Ms. Young is director of the New York State Center of Excellence for Food and Agriculture, whose mission is to cultivate innovation, economic growth and job creation in the state’s food and farming sectors, at Cornell University.
Brooks Locomotive Works At Fredonia Technology Incubator
Brooks Locomotive Works, an exhibition of photography and artifacts focusing on the Brooks Locomotive Works, is on display at the Fredonia Technology Incubator from Jan. 22 to March 20.
The exhibition is a collaboration between the incubator and the Historical Society of Dunkirk. It tells the story of Dunkirk’s Brooks Locomotive Works and American Locomotive Company (ALCO)/Brooks Works, but recounts the early history of steam locomotives. The exhibition features original and reprinted photographs of the Brooks plant, its employees, and the locomotives they manufactured throughout the years; wooden mold patterns and tools from the Brooks carpentry shop; documents, letters, postcards and locomotive catalogs; a steam pressure gauge and Brooks builders plates; and other original artifacts.
Winners Announced For Incubator Student Business Competition
The 2019 grand prize winner was Rae-Anne Clarke, with her business A Touch of Rae. Touch of Rae offers affordable/high quality hair; the judges highlighted her established brand name, an in-depth business plan and her overall knowledge of her companies goals and ideals.
“It was a very close competition. Many students had great ideas, and we encourage everyone to keep working. Unfortunately, we could only select one Grand Prize Winner. We are proud to have chosen A Touch of Rae, a well-organized business run by a passionate entrepreneur that has already managed to turn a profit. We felt that the prize could most readily assist Rae in scaling her business and expanding her target market. We look forward to working with Rae and watching her business grow,” Borrello said.
Incubator presents tax and accounting workshop for entrepreneurs
The Fredonia Technology Incubator continues its Entrepreneurial Education Program with a workshop designed to assist entrepreneurs and startups with taxes and accounting. Small business owner, CPA and Fredonia lecturer Mark Nickerson will conduct the workshop.
“The Entrepreneurial Education Program provides entrepreneurs with useful, hands on information and an opportunity to ask presenters questions,” said Incubator Director Chuck Cornell. “High quality entrepreneurial workshops such as this are a key part of our services and programming we provide at the Incubator.”
Dunkirk, NY: Improving your Facebook Marketing - August 15th
The U.S. Small Business Administration Buffalo District Office, hosted by the Fredonia Technology Incubator present: Improving your Facebook Marketing. All businesses need to be able to market their products and services more broadly and drive customers to where purchases are made, whether that is online or in person.
QuickBooks To Be Taught At FTI
The Fredonia Technology Incubator continues its entrepreneurial education program with a workshop designed to assist entrepreneurs and startups with utilizing QuickBooks Desktop more efficiently and effectively.
The workshop will help people learn the features of QuickBooks such as memorizing and scheduling transactions, invoice adjustments, managing loans, purchase orders, managing sales tax, customizing forms, bad debt write offs, voided and/or returned checks and uncommonly known tips.
Incubator receives funds from community foundation
The Fredonia Technology Incubator recently received a community grant from the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation to further its Multimedia Innovation Design Studio.
The studio is a physical maker space located within the Center for Innovation & Economic Development (CIED) that houses high-performance computers, specialized software, peripherals, video, and recording equipment designed for innovative cross-disciplinary collaborations and development.
Technology incubator to host Christmas extravaganza for children
With holidays rapidly approaching, the Playground Drama Camp and the Playground Academy are teaming up to present a Christmas extravaganza for area children on Wednesday, Dec. 5, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Fredonia Technology Incubator, 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk.
Children of all ages are invited to have their picture taken with Santa Claus, enjoy delicious holiday treats, sing Christmas carols and write their own letter earmarked to the North Pole. The event is free and open to the public. Donations are welcomed.
All proceeds will go to the Play On Endowment Fund which helps fund scholarships for Playground Drama Camp and The Playground Academy, as well as production costs for Shakespeare on the Lake.
Incubator Program Manager recognized by chamber of commerce
Incubator Program Manager Monica Kemp-Simpson was one of two local citizens honored with the 2018 Pam Lydic Coalition Builder Award from the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce.
Ms. Kemp-Simpson of Dunkirk and Simone Sellstrom of Jamestown received the award during the Chautauqua Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting on Dec. 7 at the new Chautauqua Harbor Hotel in Celeron. Ms. Kemp-Simpson founded the Northern Chautauqua Young Professionals (NCYP), working diligently to organize young professionals and entrepreneurs to build networks and professional relationships to enhance and engage the community.
Fredonia Incubator To Host Aspire Workshop
The Fredonia Technology Incubator will host the Aspire Arts for Inclusion Workshop from 10 a.m. to noon Friday.
Heath Bartle and Alex Glenfield, Aspire of WNY art instructors, will present the artistic, musical, literary and cinematic creations of the individuals with disabilities they serve. Discussions will include the benefits of the arts with special emphasis on community building, arguing that the arts may be one of the best ways to increase that sense of “belonging.” The second portion of the presentation will focus on Spirit Gallery.
The Spirit Gallery is a new and innovative project which will integrate the art community of Western New York with the iXpress art community comprised of artists with various developmental disabilities. The Spirit Gallery will be a creative space for local artists to share their talents while becoming mentors to the iXpress artists. They envision a fully functioning gallery, on site artist’s studios, as well as, a gift shop of handmade artisan goods. This gallery will also house a day service program that will act as a learning center where the participants develop the skills to operate and take ownership in the success of the Spirit Gallery.
Fredonia Incubator to host Boots to Business Reboot session for veterans
On July 18, the Fredonia Technology Incubator will be hosting a veterans outreach workshop, “Boots to Business Reboot.” The two-step training program will allow guests to learn more about starting or growing a veteran-owned business.
The workshop will focus on an introduction to business ownership and planning, as well as public and private sector resources useful for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Each of the courses are taught by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the New York/New Jersey Veterans Business Outreach Center — The Arsenal Business and Technology Partnership. This two-step program will teach veterans how they can use their skills and discipline to start a small business of their own.
Fredonia Technology Incubator’s Student Business Competition Winners Announced
The Fredonia Technology Incubator conducted the final pitches for its Third Annual Student Business Competition for students at the State University of New York at Fredonia last week. After deliberation, a panel of independent judges announced the winners shortly after the presentations concluded.
The top prize went to John McIvor and his startup WEIRDNESS. WEIRDNESS is an alternative comics and illustration venture, putting out small-run, collectible physical releases from commissioned artists. Runners up included Makunema Productions, a multimedia company, with team leader Madison Breslin, and team members Noah Schoelermann, Evan Frew, Matthew Turner, and Kyle Licht. Makunema creates original films and assists other artists’ projects. The second runner up was Jiggy By Nature (JBN), with team members Lloyd Ansah, Andre Cowan, Mamadou Diallo, and Abdullah Yusuf. JBN is a startup that sells different branded clothing to college students. All of the participants are students at Fredonia.
Successful test flight validates Fredonia professor’s invention
A revolutionary technology developed at SUNY Fredonia that has the potential to render the aircraft flight recorder (AKA the “black box”) obsolete achieved a major milestone on its path to commercialization – a successful test flight.
Junaid Zubairi, professor of Computer and Information Sciences, designed a real-time system for tracking and saving flight data on ground servers that is otherwise only stored in a plane's flight data recorder. The software would eliminate the need, following a crash, to mount what can be an expensive and time-consuming search to recover the flight data recorder that stores the vital information.
Technology Incubator to hold third annual student business competition
For the third consecutive year, the Fredonia Technology Incubator will be hosting its Student Business Competition.
The competition is designed to train Fredonia students so that they can present and develop business ideas in a professional, real-life manner.
Winners of the competition will receive guidance from veteran business mentors. First-place winners will also be granted $1,200 through a paid internship and office space at the Incubator.
“The supportive environment,” said Alex Czechowski, “within the Incubator has opened the door to connecting not only other Incubator business, but with community organizations and spanning out into larger networks, specifically for us, other universities, the SUNY Incubator network and local government entities.”
Fredonia Incubator To Host Hispanic Networking Event
The Fredonia Technology Incubator will host a Hispanic entrepreneurial networking event, designed to engage with local Hispanic entrepreneurs, provide an opportunity to network with other business owners and learn about entrepreneurial support and services provided by the incubator, on Wednesday from 4-6 p.m.
Dunkirk Mayor Willie Rosas will speak at the gathering. Entrepreneur Matt Cortes, co-owner of AAL-In Transport LLC and an incubator client, will be a featured speaker.
Community leaders, entrepreneurs, incubator clients, Fredonia students and faculty and interested community members are encouraged to attend the free event. An array of ethnic food, including beans, rice, pork, chicken and tamales, will be catered by Taqueria Mexicana.
The Fredonia Technology Incubator hosts award-winning artist Andrea Dezsö
On Sept. 15, the award-winning illustrator Andrea Dezsö presented to a small audience at the Fredonia Technology Incubator, followed by her gallery opening in the Marion Art Gallery later that night.
After a brief glance at her work, it is obvious that Dezsö has fully embraced the art of experimentation. She has worked in all types of media, from embroidery to mosaics.
Dezsö has a bachelor’s degree in graphic design and typography, as well as a master’s degree in visual communication from the Hungarian University of Design in Budapest, Hungary.
Incubator Announces Winners of Student Business Competition Powered by AT&T
The Center for Innovation & Economic Development (CIED) declared its winners for the Second Annual Student Business Competition powered by AT&T.
Fredonia Technology Incubator to Offer QuickBooks Workshop
A workshop on the accounting software program QuickBooks, conducted by Fredonia accountant Sham Baghat, will be offered on Wednesday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Fredonia Technology Incubator, 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk, as part of its Entrepreneurial Workshop Series.
Fredonia Technology Incubator announces spring 2017 events
The Fredonia Technology Incubator has announced its spring 2017 events.
Technology incubator to host community open house
Doors will open wide at the Fredonia Technology Incubator, 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk, for business, university and community members at its third annual open house on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 4 to 7 p.m.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet representatives of current incubator businesses, officials at the State University of New York at Fredonia and leaders in local economic development and businesses during the open house, which is free and open to the public. Tours of the building will also be given and refreshments will be served.
Fredonia Incubator To Host Funding Workshop
The Fredonia Technology Incubator will host the Federal and State Technology Research & Development Funding Opportunities Working Conference in collaboration with Jamestown Community College on Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to noon.
The conference is for professionals in the business and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields who wish to learn different techniques and collaborate with each other. It is also for professionals who own their own companies and are trying to develop innovative products; scientists or professors with ideas, but limited resources; researchers who are interested in collaborating with businesses; and professionals who have successfully completed small business innovation research or small business technology transfer, but seek current information on the process.
Fredonia incubator announces student entrepreneurial competition winners
Launched last November, the competition challenged students to showcase their entrepreneurial spirit and submit their business ideas for an opportunity receive a one-year residency at the incubator at no cost in an office contributed by AT&T. The winning student group also receives access to all FTI programming and services.
Three finalists were selected based on the viability of their business idea, their product or service, their potential target market, their value proposition and their expected competition and were given the opportunity to pitch their idea to a panel of independent judges. The winners were awarded cash prizes as well as office space in the incubator and incubator services that include professional mentoring.
The winners were announced after the finalists’ live pitch portion of the competition during a recent ceremony at the incubator. The grand prize winner was Ryan Alonge for his plan to develop a children’s play museum in Dunkirk. He was awarded free office space in the incubator for a year and a cash prize of $500.
Legal issues next topic of Fredonia Technology Incubator workshop series
The Entrepreneurial Education Series at the Fredonia Technology Incubator will continue with a workshop led by Hodgson Russ LLP senior associates Jordan Walbesser and Jaclyn Hamlin, which will explore legal issues pertaining to businesses and offer tips and guidelines, on Wednesday, April 13, from 9 a.m. to noon.
Incubator Holds Student Business Competition
The Fredonia Technology Incubator is launching its second annual student business competition, with the opportunity for participants to submit a business proposal and compete for admittance into the FTI and other prizes.
Fredonia incubator session to promote clean-energy business competition
A networking session to promote 76West, a new clean-energy business competition that spans New York’s Southern Tier region, will be held at the Fredonia Technology Incubator, 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk, on Monday from 4 to 7 p.m.
Offering more than $20 million in total prize money, 76West is designed to attract entrepreneurs and resources from across New York state, the United States and from around the world to the Southern Tier to build clean-energy businesses that create jobs.
The networking session, offered free for business professionals, will also include a screening of the incubator’s new promotional video produced by Venture Productions, an incubator client, as well as viewing of the incubator’s art gallery.
FTI Welcomes New Business Orbitist
The Fredonia Technology Incubator is welcoming a new business, Orbitist, LLC, to its facility in the central business district of Dunkirk, N.Y. Orbitist is a startup company founded by Class of 2011 Fredonia graduate Nicholas Gunner which makes online mapping software for the tourism industry. The incubator currently supports nine business startups.
Technology Incubator Announces Fredonia Student Business Competition
The Center for Innovation & Economic Development (CIED) is launching a business competition for students at Fredonia. The competition will provide students the opportunity to submit a business proposal and compete for admittance into FTI and other prizes. The competition complements other student-based entrepreneurial initiatives in Western New York and is being powered by AT&T.
Incubator Director Earns Management Certificate
Charles Cornell, director at the Fredonia Technology Incubator, has joined an elite group of graduates who have demonstrated their commitment and support for the entrepreneurial ecosystem by earning the Business Incubation Management Certificate from the International Business Innovation Association (InBIA).
Technology Incubator Open House Enlightens Community Members
On Oct. 21, the Fredonia Technology Incubator held its second open house, welcoming members of the community into the incubator to see what the technology incubator is and what it does.
Fredonia Technology Incubator Hosts Small Business Workshop
The Fredonia Technology Incubator hosted an all-day workshop, “Starting and Managing Your Own Business,” conducted by Buffalo Niagara SCORE featuring SCORE and local expert speakers covering business issues critical to every start-up business.
Technology Incubator adds UB’s Kemp
The Center for Innovation & Economic Development (CIED) welcomes Monica Kemp to its staff. Ms. Kemp had served as a Research Support Assistant at the New York State Center for Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences at the University at Buffalo. At FTI Kemp will serve as the Administrative Assistant.
Incubator Hosts StartUp NY Innovation Hot Spot (IHS) Event
Fredonia recently hosted leading experts in START-UP NY and New York State Innovation Hot Spot at the Fredonia Technology Incubator. Business, campus and community members attended the event.
Fredonia StartUP NY Campus Plan Approved
A new door has been officially opened for economic development and job creation in Chautauqua County with formal approval last week by the State University of New York (SUNY) of the Fredonia StartUP NY campus plan, part of a statewide initiative launched by Governor Andrew Cuomo to create tax-free zones on or near institutions of higher education.
Incubator receives Oishei Foundation Grant
The John R. Oishei Foundation of Buffalo has awarded $300,000 to the Center for Innovation & Economic Development (CIED) to support its mission of creating jobs and cultivating entrepreneurial opportunities in the region. The award - the second Oishei grant provided to the incubator since its inception - will provide expanded services and resources that promote the interaction of technology and the arts.
Incubator Open House Set for Thursday
The Fredonia Technology Incubator will host an Open House on Thursday, Nov. 6 from 4 to 7 p.m. All business, campus and community members are invited to attend this event, which is free and open to the public. It will feature current incubator businesses, university officials, and local economic development and business leaders. Building tours will be offered.
Fredonia Technology Incubator Welcomes Venture Productions
The Fredonia Technology Incubator is welcoming a new business, Venture Productions, to its facility in the central business district of Dunkirk. Venture Productions is a start-up company that provides highly innovative, original and affordable entertainment, digital media, and high quality dramatic education for all ages.
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Fredonia Technology Incubator Welcomes ProQuip
The Fredonia Technology Incubator is welcoming a new business to the central business district of Dunkirk. ProQuip, a Canadian-based business, is staging its presence in the U.S. market at the incubator. The Brantford, Ont.-based company is an energy sector leader that creates green energy products and services, such as LED lighting, Solar LED lighting, and Solar PV solutions.
Fredonia Technology Incubator Welcomes CCIDA, County Planning Department
The State University of New York at Fredonia’s Technology Incubator is welcoming the relocation of the County of Chautauqua Industrial Development Agency’s northern county offices to its facility, located in the central business district of Dunkirk. The move will provide greater coordination as the university launches its StartUp NY plan and enhances services to its entrepreneurs located in the Technology Incubator.
Fredonia, UB team-up for Lean certification course
The Fredonia Technology Incubator is hosting a certification course this spring for business professionals of any industry who are interested in improving their company’s performance. The Certified Lean Professional (CLP) course educates candidates in the continuous improvement methodology of reducing waste.