WISE Women’s Business Center Awarded Grant from Empire State Development to Expand Entrepreneurial Support

The WISE Women’s Business Center, in collaboration with the Martin J. Whitman School of Management, has been selected as one of 24 Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers in New York state. This recognition follows the receipt of a grant from Empire State Development in 2023, furthering the center’s commitment to advancing women in business and fostering economic growth in Central New York. In line with its commitment to equity and community impact, the WISE Women’s Business Center’s programs reach underserved, minority and rural populations across the seven counties it serves.

Administered by Empire State Development, the Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers program aims to support aspiring and existing entrepreneurs by providing essential resources and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. These centers act as catalysts for economic development, offering educational programs, training, and mentorship opportunities to empower businesses across the state.

In addition to its affiliation with the Whitman School, the WISE Women’s Business Center is designated as a Women’s Business Center through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This recognition underscores the center’s commitment to serving women entrepreneurs by providing impactful programs, resources, and one-on-one tailored support in reaching their business goals.

WISE Women’s Business Center is deeply invested in collaborative efforts with community partners to maximize its impact and deliver comprehensive services to women entrepreneurs. By forging strategic alliances with local organizations, educational institutions and business support entities, WISE ensures a network of resources that goes beyond its individual capabilities.

The grant from Empire State Development will support the WISE Women’s Business Center’s Accelerate: Business Plan Intensive. Currently in its fourth year, and kicking off the seventh cohort on April 9, this low-cost, 8-week intensive program provides women entrepreneurs in the early stages of their business with expert guidance, peer collaboration and personalized support in developing and refining business plans which can be used for loan applications, finding business partners and more.

“We are honored to be selected as an Entrepreneurship Assistance Center and are excited about the opportunities this presents for women entrepreneurs in our region,” says Meghan Florkowski, director at the WISE Women’s Business Center. “This grant will enable us to enhance our commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth, collaborating with community partners, and contributing to the vibrancy of the Central New York small business community.”

Story by Jennifer McGee