Sparkill, N.Y. – St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC) has officially become the new host site for the Lower Hudson Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC), further strengthening its commitment to community engagement, economic development, and workforce education.
The newly relocated Lower Hudson Valley SBDC will now operate from STAC’s campus in Sparkill, NY, providing free and confidential business advisement to entrepreneurs and small businesses in Rockland, Westchester, and Putnam counties. This move makes STAC one of only two private higher education institutions in New York State to serve as an SBDC host site, a network typically housed within CUNY and SUNY institutions.
The Lower Hudson Valley SBDC had approximately 570 active small business clients in 2024, contributing to over $7.8 million in capital impact for these businesses. Now, with its presence at STAC, the center will not only offer support for local businesses but also create learning opportunities for students, including internships, cooperative education roles, and access to entrepreneurial resources.
“We are honored to partner with the SBDC and welcome them to our campus,” said STAC President Ken Daly. “This collaboration enhances our mission to foster workforce development and provide experiential learning while empowering local businesses to grow and thrive.”
Sonya Smith, State Director of the New York SBDC, emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating: “This marks our first new center in New York State in over 15 years, and we’re excited to partner with the visionary leadership at STAC. Together, we aim to create a hub of expertise and education that will empower small businesses and drive economic growth across the Lower Hudson Valley.”
Additionally, Louis Scamardella, Center Director of the Lower Hudson Valley SBDC, highlighted the value of the partnership: “This collaboration allows us to leverage the expertise of STAC students and faculty to deliver the highest quality advisement and support to small businesses throughout the region.”
For more than 40 years, the New York SBDC has provided expert guidance and resources to help small businesses navigate challenges, access funding, and expand their operations. By serving as the new host site, St. Thomas Aquinas College will amplify this mission while enhancing its own academic and professional development programs.
For more information about the Lower Hudson Valley SBDC at St. Thomas Aquinas College, visit stac.edu/sbdc.