L-R Front Row: Beth Caton, Sr. Manager Employment & Training, Community Action for Wyoming County; Dawn Greene; Asha Kiff; Chris Zimmerman; Lisa Zimmerman
L-R Back Row: Jeff Fitch, Fast Track Program Co-Facilitator; Jennifer Tyczka, Fast Track Program Manager; Aidan Pankow; Mary Ann Meeker; Monica Jett; Carrie Graham; Rick Malik; Deanna Malik; Mike Fitch, Fast Track Program Co-Facilitator
Missing: Ann Everts
(WARSAW, NY) - May 28, 2024 - The Wyoming County Business Center proudly announces the graduation of seven aspiring entrepreneurs and their business partners from the Wyoming County Business Fast Track Program, marking a significant milestone in the county's journey towards fostering innovation and economic prosperity.
The graduates bring a diverse array of innovative business concepts to Wyoming County including a general store with gift boutique; customized fishing tackle and charter boat tours; a dry cleaner with added value services; end-of-life planning and care; a hair salon with tanning services; a general machine and tool fabrication shop; and natural remedies for healing. Each venture promises to enrich the local community and drive economic growth.
Jennifer Tyczka, the program manager, emphasized the significance of the 10-week journey the entrepreneurs undertook: "These graduates have meticulously developed their concepts and visions through every stage of the business planning process. They've not only gained invaluable knowledge but also forged powerful networks with one another, laying the groundwork for future collaboration and success."
Throughout the program, participants engaged in intensive entrepreneurship classes covering essential topics such as business feasibility analysis, market assessment, financial projections, sales and marketing strategies, operations and management, and legal considerations. Facilitated by experienced local entrepreneurs, Jeff Fitch and Mike Fitch, the interactive sessions fostered a supportive environment for idea exchange and collaboration.
The Wyoming County Business Center, an affiliate of the Kauffman Foundation’s FastTrac program, customizes the Fast Track Program to meet the specific needs of Wyoming County entrepreneurs. With access to low-interest financing, technical assistance, and a robust business support network, graduates are equipped to navigate the challenges of business ownership and pursue sustainable growth.
Jim Pierce, President of the Wyoming County Business Center, underscored the program's impact on entrepreneurship and economic development: "We've witnessed the transformative effect of thorough business planning and targeted entrepreneurship training on the success of our graduates. Many Fast Track alumni have gone on to secure financing and establish thriving businesses, contributing significantly to job growth in Wyoming County."
The upcoming cycle of the Wyoming County Business Fast Track Program is scheduled to commence on August 27, 2024, at the Ag & Business Center in Warsaw. Sessions are held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays over 10 weeks. Entrepreneurs eager to turn their business ideas into reality are invited to register for the program and join a supportive community dedicated to entrepreneurial success.
Supported by the Wyoming County Business Center Board of Directors and the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors, the Fast Track Program is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Tompkins Community Bank, Complete Payroll, Robert D. Strassel Esq., Five Star Bank, Community Bank N.A., and the workforce development resources available to participants through Community Action for Wyoming County.
For more information about the Wyoming County Business Fast Track Program or to register for the upcoming cycle, visit wycoida.org or contact Jennifer Tyczka at (585) 786-3764 or jtyczka@wycoida.org. Registration is now open, and seats are limited.
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