A new nonprofit organization in Schuyler County says it is committed to empowering new entrepreneurs by providing free business services in their first year of business, with a special focus on minority and women-owned businesses, veteran-owned businesses, and formerly incarcerated individuals’ businesses.
Year One will be providing startup services to new businesses at no cost for their first year of business with a special focus on minority and women-owned businesses, veteran-owned businesses, and formerly incarcerated individuals’ businesses. These services include: business formation and legal counseling, business plan development, bank financing application support, accounting support, marketing plan development, human resources support, software subscriptions (Paychex and QuickBooks Online) and more. In addition to these “hard services, there will also be opportunities for one-on-one mentorship and coaching, networking and co-learning from fellow entrepreneurs, and access to resources such as funding opportunities.
Year One is the brainchild of Rebekah Carroll, former Executive Director of the Watkins Glen Area of Commerce (a post she held for 10 years) and now owner of STATEMENTS Accounting and R&R Enterprises. Over the course of her career, Rebekah experienced the need firsthand for this type of organization and is eager to get to work. She will serve as Year One’s Executive Director.
Rebekah adds, “The first year of any business is the most critical. Without access to the right services, support, mentorship, and capital, many entrepreneurs struggle to get their business off the ground. Entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for economic mobility, but systemic barriers often prevent potential business owners from accessing the support they need. Year One is committed to changing this narrative by ensuring that every aspiring business owner has the tools necessary to succeed.”
Trent Griffin-Braaf, Chair of the Board of Directors shares, “As a Forbes Next 1000 honoree, the 2023 SBA Small Business Person of the Year for Upstate New York, and one of the largest minority employers in the state, I know how vital Year One is for any business—especially for minority entrepreneurs. This ribbon cutting marks more than just a grand opening; it represents a commitment to breaking down barriers and building the infrastructure needed for long-term success. I’m proud to serve on the board and support this effort to ensure our businesses not only launch—but thrive.”
Year One has a board of directors, who will aid Rebekah in shepherding the mission forward. The board includes:
· Scott Bell, National Director of Operations at International Residence Hall
· Carl Blowers, Chairman of the Schuyler County Legislature;
· Gladys Brangman, Founder and CEO of Business Leaders of Colors;
· Trent Griffin-Braaf, Founder of GB Logistics; and
· Pete Honsberger, Retired General Manager at Southern Tier Industries and Retired Owner of Great Escape and Everything Ice Cream.
All are invited to a ribbon cutting on May 1 at 11 am at 401 West Main Street, Suite 110 in Montour Falls.
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