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Our Stories
Monroe County commits $15M in funding to support small businesses
Monroe County has decided to commit $15 million in CARES Act funding to support local small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic through the Fast Forward Monroe Small Business Grant Program. The grant program is a direct response to the Fast Forward Monroe business survey released earlier this year, and will provide financial assistance to […]
SunDensity closes on $2.5M in initial financing
SunDensity has closed on $2.5 million in initial financing led by Clean Energy Ventures, a venture capital firm funding early-stage climate-tech innovations. Luminate, Rochester Angel Network , LaunchNY, and Clean Energy Venture Group also participated in the round. SunDensity, winner of Luminate NY, has developed Photonic Smart Coating technology that increases solar power output with additional […]
Zweigle’s completes Phase I of expansion project
Meat manufacturer Zweigle’s, which specializes in hot dog and other “Old World” products, has completed the first phase of an expansion project at the company’s Plymouth Avenue facility. This phase included the addition of 15,000 square-feet to the company’s advanced manufacturing plant. The entire project will allow the company to meet the growing demand in […]
Two local companies advance to finals of Grow-NY competition
Out of more than 260 companies, Leep Foods and Crystal Creek Organics were among 20 organizations selected to advance to the finals of the Grow-NY competition. Leep Foods grows premium USDA-certified organic mushrooms and has seen success with a regenerative soil method for consumers and restaurants. Crystal Creek Organics manufactures unique fertilizers, which are made […]
New $18 million initiative supporting entrepreneurs now in place in New York State
New York State was awarded an $18 million federal grant to support entrepreneurs and help small businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant was awarded to only eight states in the country and was made available through the CARES Act. “The coronavirus pandemic is far from over, and as we continue to fight against […]
‘Look Local First’ to educate community about small businesses
The Penfield Business Chamber has developed a “Look Local First” initiative with the specific goal of educating the community about the value of patronizing small businesses before searching online or at big box stores, and the positive effects that shopping locally has on a community. Look Local First will consist of a robust social media […]