New York SBDC

06/02/2026

Summer in New York means farmers markets, outdoor dining, local attractions, seasonal experiences, and maybe finally putting the wool socks away, but keeping them nearby just in case.

It's also a busy season for small businesses across the state.

From tourism and hospitality to recreation, retail, and seasonal events, summer activity helps support entrepreneurs and local economies across New York.

Keep an eye on our feed throughout June as we highlight tourism, agritourism, seasonal businesses, and the people helping them grow.

06/01/2026

This four-part virtual series begins this week and is ideal for New York businesses exploring reshoring, U.S.-based manufacturing, or production planning.

Sessions run June 3, 10, 17, and 24 from 12–1 p.m. Interested businesses can register through the link in the original post.

Thinking about bringing manufacturing to the U.S. or starting production for the first time?

Join our 4-part webinar series led by Kellie Greene, CGBP, MBA, designed to guide you from strategy to ex*****on.

Learn how to:

✔️ Decide if U.S. manufacturing is right for your business
✔️ Find and evaluate suppliers
✔️ Understand costs, risks & funding options
✔️ Successfully plan and launch your operations

📅 6/3, 6/10, 6/17, 6/24
⏰ 12:00pm –1:00pm
💻 Virtual

Register here: https://bit.ly/4rXI4pV

05/29/2026

05/29/2026

𝗛𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘆’𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 has been named the 2026 Lewis County Small Business of the Year!

From its roots in custom meat processing to becoming a trusted retail market in Port Leyden, Hartley’s has built a reputation for quality products, friendly service, and dedication to the community.

One of the business’s biggest accomplishments was securing SNAP authorization—helping make high-quality food more accessible for local families.

Through hard work, adaptability, and support from the SBDC, Hartley’s continues to grow while staying true to its small-town values.

Read more on our Blog: https://bit.ly/4u6lZq9

05/29/2026

Do you know a small business with an innovation story to tell?
Do they want to pitch for a $1 million prize pool?

Time is ticking. The competition submission deadline is June 10.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has launched a national pitch competition for eligible small businesses that have been in operation for at least three years and are driving innovation in their sector.

View eligibility details and learn more here:
http://www.sba.gov/freedom250

05/28/2026

This month, we're highlighting Ag Biotech Inc., a New York manufacturer whose international growth reflects the power of innovation and strategic support.

Founded in 1992, the company develops biostimulants and biofertilizers for agricultural markets. As domestic demand matured, Ag Biotech pursued new growth opportunities abroad under the leadership of CEO Robert Hudak and Director of International Development Tristan Hudak.

Expanding into global markets brought common challenges, including the high cost of market development, financing, and building new distributor relationships.

Through a network of support that included Empire State Development's Global NY, export service partners, Niagara Small Business Development Center Business Advisor Bree Bacon, and NYSBDC International Trade Director Dr. Mercedes Sanchez-Moore, the company accessed guidance, funding connections, resources for distributor searches, trade show opportunities, and export financing tools.

Reflecting on that support, Tristan Hudak shared, "Receiving advice and being introduced by NYSBDC to funding resources and government-backed export programs was a turning point."

Today, international sales account for 50% of annual revenue, with growing markets across Mexico, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Ag Biotech's story shows how New York businesses can grow globally when innovation is matched with the right support.

05/27/2026

⭐ May's Gold Star Goes To… ⭐
Seyoung Son, Business Advisor at our Queens-LaGuardia Small Business Development Center!

Seyoung's colleagues describe him as approachable, honest, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in helping others succeed. His clients appreciate his ability to help them move forward in their business journey with greater confidence, while remaining patient, practical, and clear about the realities of starting and growing a business.

Whether he is working with entrepreneurs or more established small businesses, Seyoung listens carefully, breaks down ideas into actionable steps, and offers thoughtful guidance tailored to each client's goals.

His commitment to helping others build something meaningful and sustainable makes a lasting difference across our network.

Congratulations, Seyoung, and thank you for the impact you make!

05/26/2026

We’re excited to host our next North Country Entrepreneurship Meetup Series in Malone on Thursday May 28th.

This ongoing series is designed to bring together entrepreneurs, small business owners, and business support organizations in a casual, welcoming space to connect, share ideas, and learn from one another.
Join us - Thursday, May 28th
5:30 – 7:30 PM
FCEDC/The Carry at 360 W Main St, Malone

This event's Fireside Chat with feature Josiah Martin owner of Martin’s Pretzel Bakery

This event is open to all—whether you’re building something new, growing a business, or simply curious.
Register at https://tinyurl.com/NCMeetupMalone

05/26/2026

From raw materials and equipment to products arriving on shelves, maritime trade remains a vital part of supply chains in New York.

On National Maritime Day, we recognize the ships, ports, workers, and transportation networks that help keep goods moving every day, and the role logistics plays in supporting businesses, communities, and global commerce.