Empowering CNY: WISE Women’s Business Center Recognized Among 24 Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers

Empowering Central New York: WISE Women’s Business Center Recognized Among 24 Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers

by Aryal Smith

The entrepreneurial spirit in the Central New York region is shining brighter than ever as the WISE Women’s Business Center (WISE WBC) achieves a remarkable milestone. 

WISE Women’s Business Center is being honored as one of 24 Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers in New York State. This prestigious recognition follows a significant grant exceeding $73,000 from Empire State Development.

the entrepreneurship assistance centers program embodies a commitment to supporting the endeavors of both aspiring and existing entrepreneurs.

WISE Women’s Business Center is an organization dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs and ensuring they have access to the support they need to succeed. WISE, which stands for Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship, serves as a beacon of support for women entrepreneurs at all stages of their business ventures. WISE WBC equips women with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in the competitive business landscape, offering guidance on business planning, financial management, and marketing strategies.

Part of a network of over 140 women's business centers across the nation, WISE is funded in part by the US Small Business Administration and hosted by the prestigious Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University. This partnership underscores the collective effort to cultivate a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation within our community.

Syracuse University has announced that the WISE Women’s Business Center will utilize the 2023 ESD grant to support its Accelerate: Business Plan Intensive program. This initiative, currently in its fourth year, is designed to provide women entrepreneurs in the early stages of their businesses with expert guidance, peer collaboration, and personalized support in developing and refining business plans. 

“We are honored to be selected as an Entrepreneurship Assistance Center and are excited about the opportunities this presents for women entrepreneurs in our region,” stated Meghan Florkowski, Director at the WISE Women’s Business Center, in the SU announcement. “This grant will enable us to enhance our commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth, collaborating with community partners, and contributing to the vibrancy of the Central New York small business community.”

This recognition not only stands as a testament to WISE WBC’S dedication to our community but also serves as a celebration of all women entrepreneurs in Central New York.

Let’s continue to support and uplift women entrepreneurs, recognizing that their success not only enriches their own lives but also strengthens our community. Together, we can ensure women have the resources to thrive and make significant contributions to Central New York's entrepreneurial business landscape.

Sources: news.syr.edu, cnybj.com, wisecenter.com

Aryal Smith

ARYAL IS A SEASONED MARKETING MANAGER WHO THRIVES IN LEADING STRATEGY AND BUILDING 360 MARKETING CAMPAIGNS FOR CONSUMER-FACING BRANDS, INCLUDING HOW TO CAKE IT AND PREVIOUSLY, SHOKZ. 

AFTER MAKING THE MOVE BACK TO CENTRAL NEW YORK FROM AUSTIN, TEXAS, SHE FELT A STRONG PULL TO JOIN THE CNY WOMEN’S NETWORK TEAM IN OCTOBER 2023. IT WAS ALEX’S MISSION TO CONNECT AND EMPOWER WOMEN IN THE REGION THAT RESONATED WITH HER.

ARYAL ATTRIBUTES MUCH OF HER SUCCESS AND PERSONAL GROWTH TO THE GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT SHE HAS RECEIVED FROM STRONG WOMEN LEADERS, MANAGERS, AND MENTORS OVER THE YEARS. THEIR INFLUENCE HAS GIVEN HER A DEEP SENSE OF GRATITUDE AND A DESIRE TO PAY IT FORWARD.

WHEN ARYAL ISN’T WORKING FROM HOME OR A COFFEE SHOP, YOU CAN CATCH HER LEADING A MEDITATION SESSION OR IMMERSING HERSELF IN ONE OF HER MANY COZY HOBBIES.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aryal-smith/
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