BUSINESS NEWS
Three key players in the fields of education, banking, and nonprofit support have teamed up in Rockland County to launch a pioneering initiative aimed at supporting aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those from underserved communities. Dominican University, M&T Bank, and BRIDGES are working together to provide the tools and resources necessary for success in the startup landscape.
Carlos Martinez, CEO of BRIDGES, expressed excitement over the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with M&T and Dominican University to offer a robust small business development curriculum to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those who can greatly benefit from mentorship and compassionate guidance.” BRIDGES is dedicated to helping individuals overcome various disabilities and societal barriers, working against stigma and the often unspoken prejudice of low expectations.
Part One: “Unlocking Small Business Potential” Seminar
The initiative’s first step is a half-day seminar titled “Unlocking Small Business Potential,” scheduled for Friday, September 8 at Dominican University. This session is designed to empower participants with the vital knowledge and skills to start and grow successful small businesses. Industry experts, seasoned entrepreneurs, and skilled business mentors will provide participants with practical insights, hands-on advice, and examples from real-world experiences.
The seminar will cover essential topics like business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and navigating regulatory hurdles. Individuals with disabilities, minority, veteran, and formerly-incarcerated business owners, and anyone interested in starting a business are encouraged to register for this enriching session, running from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Part Two: Small Business Incubator and Competition to Fuel Startups
Attendees of the “Unlocking Small Business Potential” seminar can further their entrepreneurial journey by enrolling in a six-week accelerated incubator and competition. This vigorous program is designed to give hands-on guidance and mentorship, allowing participants to refine business concepts, craft business plans, and grasp a nuanced understanding of market trends.
During the incubator, participants will take part in a case competition, presenting their innovative solutions to a discerning panel of industry experts and community-based investors. This competition is not just an evaluative exercise; it’s an opportunity for participants to obtain essential feedback, secure seed funding, and gather vital resources to launch their business ventures.
The course will convene on Wednesday evenings (6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.) at Dominican University’s campus. With enrollment beginning in August and limited to 40 aspiring entrepreneurs, participants will also have the chance to earn credit toward an undergraduate or graduate degree. For further details, interested individuals can reach out to DUNY faculty member Matt Schiering at matt.schiering@duny.edu.
Part Three: Opportunity to Enroll in Dominican University’s MBA or MSOLC Programs
The collaboration between Dominican University, M&T Bank, and BRIDGES extends further, offering participants the chance to enroll in either Dominican University’s renowned AACSB-accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA) or M.S. in Organizational Leadership & Communication (MSOLC) programs. Designed to cultivate advanced business acumen, leadership finesse, and global insight, these programs are tailored to meet the demands of today’s multifaceted business world.
Through this initiative, budding entrepreneurs can gain a comprehensive educational base, enriched by valuable networking possibilities and guidance from industry authorities. This unique partnership ensures that participants are well-prepared to navigate the complex business landscape, equipping them with the resources and mentorship vital to their entrepreneurial success.
“M&T Bank is deeply committed to fostering the development of emerging leaders in our community, and we are honored to support this program that fuels startups,” stated Tyre Robinson, M&T Bank’s Tarrytown Regional President.
Registration for the “Unlocking Small Business Potential” seminar has commenced and is limited to 100 participants. To secure a spot, interested individuals can visit www.BridgesRC.org. The registration fee is set at $98, with provisions for waivers available upon request for those facing economic hardships and/or disabilities. For detailed information about enrolling in Dominican University’s MBA program, please explore https://www.duny.edu/mba/.