Albany Medical Center Receives Two Awards through the Economic Development Administration

U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced over $520,000 in federal funding for the Albany Medical Center. The funding is being used to provide needed support and capital assistance to spur innovation and in the Capital Region. The Albany Medical Center will receive $399,585 in federal funding through the i6 Challenge Grant to improve the processes by which ideas become products and companies in the Capital Region. This program will help provide critical resources and support to local companies, investors, and entrepreneurs looking to create the newest innovations in medical technology. Albany Medical Center will also receive $124,910 in Cluster Grants through the Seed Capital Funds Program in order to establish the Bio Innovation Seed Fund. This fund which will help provide opportunities for entrepreneurs, physicians and engineers in the Capital Region to develop prototypes for innovated medical products that are working to be developed. This federal funding will be allocated through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).

“This federal funding is great news for job-creating entrepreneurs throughout the Capital Region and the medical professionals looking to stay on the cutting-edge of innovation at the Albany Medical Center. Now, the entire region, as well as the entire industry, will be able to benefit from the Center’s ambitious plan to get product-manufacturing businesses and technological advances off the ground,” said Senator Schumer. “I was proud to push for this federal funding and am pleased the EDA has made this wise investment in Capital Region entrepreneurs, medical research, and good-paying jobs.”

“I fought for this funding so that Albany Medical College can turn more of the Capital Region’s research into new businesses and jobs,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These critical funds will help the area’s institutions support innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives in the biomedical and biotechnology fields, helping to boost economic development in the Capital region.”

“We’re grateful to Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for their ongoing work to support economic growth in the biotech sector throughout our region”, said Vincent Verdile, MD, the Lynne and Mark Groban, M.D. '67 Distinguished Dean of Albany Medical College.  “This funding will help build on collaborative efforts to develop a robust biomedical and biotechnology-based research and entrepreneurial community in the capital region.  With this funding, we will expand research and entrepreneurship training and provide critical seed capital for emerging and innovative businesses.”

The $399,585 i6 Challenge Grant award supports the development of a best of class commercialization model for the Capital Region through the newly established Biomedical Acceleration & Commercialization Center (BACC). Led by Albany Medical College, the project aims to turn more research ideas into commercial products and services by building support networks for entrepreneurs, offering programming to increase knowledge of and training in best practices of technology transfer, and providing capital for start-ups and small businesses in the region’s biomedical and biotechnology industries. The $124,910 Cluster Grants for Seed Capital Funds Program award supports Albany Medical College’s project to create the Bio Innovation Seed Fund, which will provide increased opportunities for proof of concept, product demonstration, and prototypes for early stage projects and products being developed by area physicians, engineers, and entrepreneurs.

These funds were made available through EDA’s i6 Challenge and Cluster Grants for Seed Capital, which are a multi-agency grants that encourage innovative, groundbreaking ideas that accelerate technology commercialization, new venture formation, job creation, and economic growth across the United States.

Copies of Senator Schumer’s and Senator Gillibrand’s  letters to the Economic Development Administration  are included below:

Dear Ms. Lenzer Kirk,

I write in support of the application submitted by Albany Medical Center for funding from the Cluster Grants for Seed Capital Funds Program through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration. This funding will allow Albany Medical Center to further its biomedical and biotechnical research and entrepreneurial efforts in conjunction with other educational and business institutions in the area.

Albany Medical Center consists of a 734-bed hospital and Albany Medical College. The Center has long been a leader in progressive and patient-centered health care, as well as critical medical and scientific research. Albany Medical Center has demonstrated its commitment to developing new treatments and advancing cures for a wide variety of debilitating diseases, and continually strives to improve its research so that it effectively serves patients in the community. Albany Medical Center is also an economic development anchor institution for the region, designated as a Start-Up New York site to attract and grow businesses. The Medical Center also has a new Biomedical Acceleration Commercialization Center (BACC) with the equipment and facilities to support biomedical and biotechnology research, with a particular focus on turning more research into new companies.

The requested funding will be used to forge a partnership with Siena College and its Institute for Leadership, Albany law School, and the Eastern NY Angels, LLC to address significant gaps in the infrastructure of biomedical innovation in the Capital region of New York. Specifically, this initiative will work on developing more experienced senior business leadership in biomedical innovation, offering programming to increase knowledge of and training in best practices of technology transfer, and providing seed capital for regional emerging and start-up biomedical innovation companies. This three-pronged approach will allow Albany Medical College to expand critical biomedical and biotechnology-based research and entrepreneurship in the Capital region, ultimately boosting economic development in the area.

Dear Ms. Lenzer Kirk,

I write in support of the application submitted by Albany Medical Center (AMC) for funding from the i6 Challenge Grant Program through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration. This funding will allow Albany Medical Center to further its biomedical and biotechnology research and entrepreneurial efforts in conjunction with other educational and business institutions in the area.

Albany Medical Center consists of a 734-bed hospital and Albany Medical College. The Center has long been a leader in progressive and patient-centered health care, as well as critical medical and scientific research. Albany Medical Center has demonstrated its commitment to developing new treatments and advancing cures for a wide variety of debilitating diseases, and continually strives to improve its research so that it effectively serves patients in the community. Albany Medical Center is also an economic development anchor institution for the region, designated as a Start-Up New York site to attract and grow businesses. The Medical Center also has a new Biomedical Acceleration Commercialization Center (BACC) with the equipment and facilities to support biomedical and biotechnology research, with a particular focus on turning more research into new companies.

           The requested funding will be used to forge a partnership with Siena College and its Institute for Leadership, Albany law School, and the Eastern NY Angels, LLC to address significant gaps in the infrastructure of biomedical innovation in the Capital region of New York. Specifically, this initiative will work on developing more experienced senior business leadership in biomedical innovation, offering programming to increase knowledge of and training in best practices of technology transfer, and providing seed capital for regional emerging and start-up biomedical innovation companies. This three-pronged approach will allow Albany Medical College to expand critical biomedical and biotechnology-based research and entrepreneurship in the Capital region, ultimately boosting economic development in the area.

COHOES>> Mohawk, North America’s largest privately-owned manufacturer of fine papers, envelopes and specialty substrates for commercial and digital printing, is pleased to announce a promotion and a new hire.

John P. Macy has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, responsible for directing Mohawk’s financial function including management of treasury activities, banking relations, cash management, insurance coverage, ERISA/pension, credit agreements and internal and external financial reporting.  Macy began with Mohawk as Vice President, Corporate Treasurer in 2012. Prior to his position at Mohawk, Macy was audit partner at KPMG LLP for 22 years, and earlier in his career was a member of IBM’s technical accounting group. Macy is a licensed Certified Public Accountant with a BA degree in Accounting from Siena College. Macy resides in Saratoga Springs, New York.

Bob Smusz has joined Mohawk as Sales & Marketing Manager, Retail Channel. With over 30 years of sales and operations experience, Smusz has previously served as Vice President Operations with Xpedx/International Paper and Regional Vice President with Federated Department Stores, where he began his career. Smusz resides in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

ABOUT MOHAWK

Mohawk is North America’s largest privately-owned manufacturer of fine papers and envelopes which are preferred for commercial and digital printing, photo specialties and high-end direct mail.  Mohawk fine papers and envelopes include the signature brands Mohawk Superfine® and Strathmore®, as well as proprietary treatments Inxwell® and i-Tone®. With a culture of innovation, Mohawk’s business model now extends beyond paper manufacturing into new areas of growth, including digital substrates and web-based software platforms, which connect designers and printers to new markets. 

As a leader in environmentally and socially responsible business practices, Mohawk was the first U.S. manufacturer of commercial printing papers to match 100% of its electricity with wind power renewable energy credits and the first U.S. premium paper mill to shift toward carbon neutral production. Mohawk’s portfolio of recycled papers is certified by Green Seal and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Mohawk is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated business based in Cohoes, New York, with global sales and operations located throughout North America, Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit www.mohawkconnects.com.

ALBANY>> The Palace Performing Arts Center announced the hiring of Sari O’Connor to the newly created position of Executive Operating Officer responsible for fundraising, business development and strategic initiatives in an effort to support future growth and revenue generation. O’Connor joins the Palace by way of her previous position as Chief Development Officer at Northern Rivers Family Services. In a statement, Holly Brown, Executive Director of the Palace, noted “Sari brings an incredible wealth of experience to the Palace. Her expertise and the meaningful connections she has fostered in the Capital Region community will have an immediate impact in continuing to enhance the Palace’s profile in our community and developing the resources we need to positively impact the capital city and surrounding area.” 

O’Connor is a Cum Laude graduate of Adelphi University, and earned her Master’s Degree in Education from SUNY Stony Brook. She also earned a Certificate of Completion in Human Resources from Indiana/Purdue University, as well as a Certificate in Performance Measurement for Effective Management of Nonprofit Organizations from the Harvard Business School Executive Education Program. After beginning her career as an elementary school teacher, and later serving as Director of Relocation Services for a local real estate firm, O’Connor spent eight years as a senior member of the management team at Northern Rivers Family Services. As Chief Development Officer at Northern Rivers, O’Connor was responsible for the strategic planning, execution and management of fundraising activities including major gifts, corporate giving, foundation grants, special events, planned giving and capital campaigns. 

O’Connor joins the Palace during a period of great growth for the 2,800-seat theatre in Albany. Since 2011, the number of annual events hosted and presented by the Palace Performing Arts Center has doubled, and the Palace is on track for its fourth consecutive season of increasing operating surpluses. O’Connor’s experience in managing collaboration between organizations, having helped to craft an alliance between Northeast Parent & Child Society and Parsons Child and Family Center as a member of the Affiliation Committee, will be of particular benefit to the Palace, an organization that has engaged in shared services with both Park Playhouse Inc. and The Albany Symphony Orchestra in recent seasons. “Beyond enhancing our development and fundraising operations,” Brown said, “Sari’s experience in effectively advancing collaboration between organizations will be a tremendous asset as the Palace continues to take a leadership role in strategically bringing Albany’s arts community together.” 

O’Connor will officially join the Palace team in June. “It is a privilege to be joining the Palace Team and a wonderful opportunity to share the responsibility for the vision, strategy and growth of the organization. The Palace is a gem and promises to be a premiere entertainment destination, not only for Albany, but the Capital Region and beyond,” she said. 

Vanderheyden is delighted to be one of 1,600 local children's charities chosen to receive a grant from

the Stewart’s Holiday Match. The $4,500 grant Vanderheyden received will go to towards assisting

our health, wellness and recreation programs for the children and youth we serve.

Stewart's Holiday Match funds are to be used directly for children 18 years and under in the geographic areas where their shops are located and the money was raised. The success of Stewart's Holiday Match is thanks to Stewart’s customers for their generous contributions, and the dedicated shop partners who worked diligently to collect the funds. The Stewart's Holiday Match program has now allocated more than $20 million since the program’s inception in 1986. Vanderheyden is very thankful for Stewart's Holiday Match and their customers’ willingness to help children and families
in the community.

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Vanderheyden began as the Troy Orphan Asylum in 1833. Today Vanderheyden provides safe haven
for children, youth and adults who have experienced family disruption, emotional difficulty and
learning problems. Services include diagnostic/respite services, education for 7-12th grade students,
residential cottages and group homes, and testing/treatment for medical, psychological, psychiatric
and educational issues.

ALBANY>> Laberge Group is pleased to announce the promotion of  Nicole T. Allen, AICP as Planning Services Manager. Allen has recently expanded her role and responsibilities with the Laberge Group to fully manage the planning department and direct all planning, grants and community development projects and staff.

Ms. Allen is a seasoned manager and has overseen the successful procurement and administration of funding for communities throughout New York State. With more than 15 years of experience, she has developed and managed a wide range of planning projects, including: comprehensive plans; brownfield redevelopment plans; “town center” plans; “complete street” policies; waterfront revitalization plans; government efficiency studies (i.e. consolidation, dissolution and shared services studies); economic and community development strategies; zoning regulations, subdivision regulations; design guidelines; and recreational studies for numerous communities.

Her comprehensive experience centers around developing realistic plans, implemented over time, by
linking community needs with the priorities of local, regional, and state agencies. Her zoning knowledge has assisted communities with code revisions to address best management practices and a range of new issues such as alternative energy structures. In addition,  Allen has served as a planning consultant to numerous municipal boards to oversee the site plan and subdivision plan review processes.

Ms. Allen attained a masters degree in urban and regional planning from the State University of New
York at Albany, a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Design from the State University of New York at Buffalo, and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners.

Laberge Group has provided engineering, architecture, surveying and planning services since 1964. Its diverse portfolio of successfully completed projects and community plans, coupled with an experienced core of project management and design staff, provides clients creative, integrated and distinctive solutions. For more information on Laberge Group, please visit ww.labergegroup.com.

ALBANY >> Laberge Group annunced the promotion of Benjamin H. Syden, AICP as vice president. As vice president, Syden will be an integral member of the business development and leadership team and provide project support to all firm operations and client projects.

 Syden has more than twenty years of experience with New York State municipalities in the areas of comprehensive planning, land use regulations, brownfield redevelopment, shared services and government efficiency, downtown revitalization, economic and community development, program development, project financing, grant writing and management. Syden has overseen the development of over 120 community planning projects, and has secured over $135 million in funding for client communities. Syden is an industry leading subject matter expert on government operations and efficiency planning, and is a frequent author and trainer for statewide municipal trade associations.

Syden attained a masters degree in urban and regional planning and a bachelor of political science from the State University of New York at Albany and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners.

He currently serves as the co-legislative director of the American Planning Association- New York Upstate Chapter, is board member of the Albany County Planning Board and the Town of Colonie Industrial Development Agency, and the vice president of the Town of Colonie Local Development Corporation.

Laberge Group has provided engineering, architecture, surveying and planning services since 1964. Its diverse portfolio of successfully completed projects and community plans, coupled with an experienced core of project management and design staff, provides clients creative, integrated and distinctive solutions. For more information on Laberge Group, please visit ww.labergegroup.com.

16 Restaurants to offer 3-Course Meals
for just $20.15
 

Albany, NY… The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) announces the 11th Annual Downtown Albany Restaurant Week slated for Saturday, April 11, 2015 – Friday, April 17, 2015. Sixteen downtown Albany restaurants will offer a three-course meal valued at a minimum of $35.00 for the price of $20.15. Diners are encouraged to make advance reservations directly with the restaurants. A FREE parking promotion is being offered by Albany Parking Authority (APA) in conjunction with the dining event, featuring:

• Riverfront Garage | Columbia Street between Broadway and Water Street (behind Kiernan Plaza). Free 5 PM until 6 AM for the duration of Restaurant Week.
• Green-Hudson Garage | Hudson Avenue and Green Street (near the Times Union Center). Free 5 PM until Midnight (Monday – Friday; not available on Saturday).
• Quackenbush Garage | Orange Street between Broadway and Water Street (behind 677 Broadway). Free 5 PM until Midnight (Monday – Saturday).
• On street meter parking is also available at no charge beginning at 6:00 PMMonday through Friday. Street parking is free on weekends.

“It is exciting to welcome this event to its 11th year,” says Mayor Kathy M. Sheehan.  “Each year Albany Restaurant Week offers the opportunity to find your new favorite restaurant, and it gives the entire region a reason to come Downtown and experience a taste of Albany.”

The Restaurant Week FREE parking promotion is part of a larger APA goal encouraging people to embrace Downtown.

“Supporting the local businesses and Downtown development has always been an important goal for the APA,” says Michael Klein, executive director of the Albany Parking Authority. “With promotions like this one, we are able to showcase the ample, year-round parking options. Having this information, visitors can confidently take the opportunity to return Downtown in the future to dine, explore the city, or enjoy an event at one of the many entertainment venues.”

Three new venues join this year’s line-up: Public House 42 which opened up on Eagle Street this past fall; Parish Public House, previously the Red Square venue; and Dawn’s Victory Sports Café, formerly the Victory Café on Sheridan Avenue, now under new ownership of Dawn Lynch.

The full list of participating restaurants for the 11th Annual Downtown Albany Restaurant Week is: V&R Italian Ristorante, Taste, Public House 42, Parish Public House, Olde English Pub & Pantry, The Merry Monk, La Serre, Jack’s Oyster House, Hudson Harbor Steak & Seafood, The Hollow Bar + Kitchen, Dawn’s Victory Sports Café, City Beer Hall, Charter (Hilton), The Capital American Eatery & Lounge, Café Capriccio, and The Albany Pump Station. Menus, hours of operation, and specials for all participating restaurants are available at downtownalbany.org.

People who patronize participating restaurants will also have the chance to enter to win gift certificates to Downtown restaurants, and to receive discounts at select shows at the Capital Repertory Theatre and Palace Theatre. Full information can be found atdowntownalbany.org.

“Excitement continues to build in Downtown as a number of residential and commercial projects move forward. With more people coming to our District to work, live, or both, Restaurant Week offers the perfect opportunity to try over a dozen of our eateries at a wonderful price,” says Georgette Steffens, Downtown Albany BID executive director. “While here to dine, I encourage people to walk around and see the exciting projects that are creating a vibrant future for our Capital City.”

A Student Night will once again be held on Monday, April 13, 2015 as an extra incentive for college students to come out and dine the 3-course menu for only $15.15 at select restaurants. Restaurants participating in Student Night are: Albany Pump Station, The Hollow Bar + Kitchen, Jack’s Oyster House, La Serre and V&R Italian Ristorante.

From international corporations, regional giants and locally owned proprietors, downtown Albany is more than business as usual. Accented by the powerful currents of the Hudson River to the motivating forces in the State Capitol, downtown Albany stands in good company with some of the greatest names in business today. Over 250 companies call downtown Albany home and signs like IBM, Microsoft and Windstream are seen throughout our historic streets. Since 1996, the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) has worked to restore, promote and maintain the character and vitality of improve the quality of life and overall image of downtown for those who work in, live in and visit the  Capital City of the most famous state in the world. The Downtown Albany BID is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. For more information about the Downtown Albany BID please visit downtownalbany.org |@AlbanyBID or call 518.465.2143.
 

The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and the Regional Alliance for a Creative Economy (RACE; convened by the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region and the Center for Economic Growth) are teaming up to present nationally-recognized nonprofit advocate Dan Pallotta in Saratoga Springs on April 21.

Dan will discuss the ways in which our society can change our thinking about nonprofit organizations to encourage true innovation and collective impact at a seminar on Tuesday, April 21 at the Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Registration starts at 1:30 p.m., and Dan’s discussion will begin at 2:00 p.m. The event is $20 per person, and attendees can register by visiting the Chamber Events section of Saratoga.org.

At 3:00 p.m., following Dan’s remarks, a panel of local nonprofit, philanthropic and community leaders will continue the conversation with their insights. This panel will include Theresa Agresta, Partner, Allegory Studios; Bo Goliber, Community Relations, Fingerpaint Marketing; Doug Sauer, CEO, New York Council on Nonprofits; Laura Schweitzer, PhD., President, Union Graduate College; and Linda Toohey, Chair, Skidmore College Board of Trustees.

“Dan’s discussion is an important part of helping shift our thinking on how nonprofit organizations must be a vital part of our region’s composition,” said Karen Bilowith, President and CEO of the Community Foundation. “To truly galvanize our region and drive economic growth that benefits all residents, we must support and value our nonprofit organizations.”

“The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is proud to join with RACE to bring Dan Pallotta to our area,” said Todd Shimkus, President of the Saratoga County Chamber. “The programs and services provided to Saratoga County residents by nonprofit organizations are a critically-important element of our community. We hope that Dan’s discussion helps advance the conversation on how our communities can authentically support and engage with local nonprofit organizations.”  

This event has been generously sponsored by KeyBank and Steadfast Risk Advisors, LLC, with support from Leadership Saratoga.

ABOUT DAN PALLOTTA

Dan Pallotta invented the multi-day charitable event industry with the AIDS Rides and Breast Cancer 3-Days. These events altered the landscape of options for ordinary individuals seeking to make an extraordinary difference. Dan's work brought the practice of four-figure philanthropy within the reach of the average citizen who had never raised money for charity before in their lives. 182,000 people of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds participated in these inspiring, often grueling, long-distance events that raised $582 million in nine years - more money raised more quickly for these causes than any private event operation in history. Three million people donated to the events.

Dan is the founder and Chief Humanity Officer of Advertising for Humanity, a full-service brand and inspiration agency for the humanitarian sector. He is also founder and President of the Charity Defense Council, a new national leadership movement dedicated to transforming the way the donating public thinks about charity and change.

Dan is the author of Uncharitable: How Restraints on Nonprofits Undermine Their Potential, the best-selling title in the history of Tufts University Press. The Stanford Social Innovation Review said that it "deserves to become the nonprofit sector's new manifesto." His newest book is Charity Case: How the Nonprofit Community Can Stand Up for Itself and Really Change the World from Jossey-Bass. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. described it as "An Apollo program for American philanthropy and the nonprofit sector."

Dan is a featured weekly contributor to the Harvard Business Review online. His iconic TED Talk, “The Way We Think About Charity is Dead Wrong,” is one of the top 100 most-viewed TED Talks of all time. He is a William J. Clinton Distinguished Lecturer, and has spoken at Stanford, Wharton, Harvard Business School, Harvard's Hauser Center for Nonprofits, Harvard's Kennedy School of Government, Tufts University, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Council on Foundations, the Gates Foundation, Hewlett Foundation, and the Milken Institute, among others.   

ABOUT THE SARATOGA COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The work of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is to initiate and provide programs and services which will enhance members’ ability to successfully conduct their business and to enhance and promote a healthy economy, making Saratoga County an ideal place to work, live and visit. Working collaboratively with the Community Foundation of the Greater Capital Region and RACE, the Chamber is looking to help spread the word about the focus of impact in our nonprofit sector.

ABOUT THE REGIONAL ALLIANCE FOR A CREATIVE ECONOMY

The Regional Alliance for a Creative Economy is a community-selected assembly of Capital Region leaders working on behalf of the region’s creative economy. This project operates under the leadership of the Center for Economic Growth and the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region.

The Creative Economy of New York’s Capital Region encompasses the enterprises and people involved in the origination, production, and distribution of goods and services in which artistic and cultural content gives the product or service value in the marketplace.

The Capital Region Creative Economy project has been designed to assess our region's creative assets and develop ways to leverage related economic development opportunities (e.g. travel and tourism, local economic and infrastructure development, workforce development, etc.). This community-based, collaborative initiative will examine the creative sector, including the arts (performing, literary, visual), design (graphics, fashion), textiles, crafts, architecture, communications and marketing, cinema and film, broadcasting, software development, publishing and printing, cultural and educational institutions, craft beer brewing and distilleries, culinary arts, and more. The project activities span Albany, Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Warren and Washington counties.

For more information and a full list of partners, visit www.UpstateCreative.org.

Five SUNY Poly CNSE teams selected among finalists after strong presentations highlighted business plans that leverage SUNY Poly CNSE’s unmatched resources

Albany, NY – Showcasing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s educational paradigm as it promotes student entrepreneurialism and supports home-grown businesses in New York State, 10 finalists have been named after the conclusion of the New York Business Plan Competition’s Capital Region semifinal round, with judges selecting five SUNY Poly CNSE-led teams that pitched plans related to energy/sustainability, nanotechnology/advanced technology, and information technology/software to move on to the final round. SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (SUNY Poly CNSE) hosted the exciting semifinal event, along with title sponsor SEFCU and lead sponsor NYSERDA.

                 
The regional semifinal competition drew interest from 35 student teams from seven accredited New York colleges and universities who gathered to pitch their game-changing business proposals for a chance to reach the final round and win part of the more than $500,000 in total prizes. Semifinal round competitions in nine other regions across New York either have been or are scheduled to take place prior to the final round, which is expected to draw hundreds to SUNY Poly CNSE on April 24, 2015, when the best student teams from each region will go head-to-head. One grand prize winner will be announced, earning $50,000 cash and over $50,000 in in-kind services.

The five winning teams that featured SUNY Poly CNSE students took half of the top spots, in addition to taking both spots in the nanotechnology/advanced technology and the clean energy/sustainability tracks. As a result, teams with SUNY Poly CNSE students that will compete in the final round include ACV Metrology, which was named as one of the top three Capital Region teams, for a high-speed 3D scanner and accompanying software that can accurately measure objects in a number of industries, such as aviation, with unmatched precision to provide quality assurance and the knowledge with which to make products more efficient; Aureonic, which has developed plasmonics-based gas sensors that can reduce harmful emissions and also includes students from Albany Law School and UAlbany’s School of Business; LuxOrioN, which pitched cost-effective, phosphor-based high-efficiency LED lighting and also includes Albany Law School students; Brewminder, which also includes students from Albany Law School and UAlbany’s School of Business who are developing a sensor and software analytics to monitor beer as it is being brewed in real-time, saving manpower and decreasing the amount of wasted product; and Autolabs, which created LabOS (Laboratory Operation Suite), a low cost-solution for automating laboratory sensors and tools via connections to the cloud and user devices to enable students and other researchers to retrieve lab data from any PC or smartphone.  ChugaChaga, led by a team of students from the University at Albany, took the top spot in the products/services track and was awarded the Capital Region Cup for its affordable mushroom-based tea that boasts high levels of antioxidants.

The New York Business Plan Competition, now in its sixth year, has continued to grow since its inception. Hundreds of student-led startups have and are continuing to pitch their ventures at regional competitions, which are being held at a number of colleges and universities throughout March and early April. As part of the competition, each team is allowed a set amount of time to explain their innovation, with teams competing against others in a similar category, or track. Panels of national venture capitalists, angel investors, investment bankers, and seasoned entrepreneurs serve as judges, providing the student teams with feedback and a chance to understand how their pitch would be received in the “real world.”

Winners of the Capital Region’s semifinal round by category include:

·         Capital Region Cup Top Team— ChugaChaga Inc. – University at Albany

·         Information Technology/Software

o    Autolabs – SUNY Poly CNSE

o    Illium VR – RPI

·         Energy/Sustainability

o    Aureonic – SUNY Poly CNSE, Albany Law School, and UAlbany’s School of Business

o    LuxOrioN – SUNY Poly CNSE, Albany Law School

·         Social Entrepreneurship/Non-Profit

o    Klicka – Skidmore College

o    Double Dees – Skidmore College

·         Nanotechnology/Advanced Technology

o   ACV Metrology – SUNY Poly CNSE

o    BrewMinder – SUNY Poly CNSE, Albany Law School, and UAlbany’s School of Business

·         Products/Services

o    ChugaChaga Inc. – University at Albany

o    All Stolen Apparel Co. – Skidmore College

With Title Sponsor SEFCU powering this unique competition, in addition to support from lead sponsors NYSERDA and First Niagara, friend sponsors National Grid, Anchor Agency, and Center for Economic Growth, and support by SkipsoLabs, Troywebconsulting, Albany Business Review, Heslin Rothenberg Farley & Mesiti P.C., Pinnacle, Nixon Peabody, Schwartz Heslin Group, Inc., and Teal, Becker & Chiaramonte, the competition has grown to become the largest of its kind in New York State and one of the biggest in the nation, growing from only one dozen teams competing for nearly $30,000 in prizes in 2010 to $500,000 in prizes in 2015.

For more information about the 2015 New York Business Plan Competition, please visit:

http://www.sunycnse.com/NewYorkBusinessPlanCompetition/2015Program.aspx

April 2015 Downtown Happenings Newsletter Subtitle Month Year in this issue Business Development Member Events Getting Involved thanks to our sponsors         Greetings! We think it is safe to say that we made it through the winter season! Lots in store for Spring 2015--we have a slew of businesses opening up in downtown, new street banners are on the way, and believe it or not soon we will see hanging flower baskets decorating our streets.    Petitions for this year's BID board of directors elections are up on our website and if you read through you'll find a link as well. Get involved and help strengthen the downtown business improvement district!   Things are getting busier so stay in touch via our website, Facebook or stop into our meet and greet at The Shop this month--details are below.      Sincerely,  Erin & Danielle special events  Spring Mall-ternative Market Saturdays, March 28th-May 9th,  9:00AM-2:00PM Troy Atrium 49 Fourth Stree  t The Mall-ternative Market is back for Spring! We've got you covered on all your hand-made needs just in time for Easter & Mother's Day, and any other day. Every Saturday from March 28th - May 9th, the Mall-ternative market will be set up in conjunction with the Troy Waterfront Farmers' Market. Make sure you stop by and check out all the one-of-a -kind merchandise our crafters have to offer. Meet & Greet Thursday, April 9th, 5:00-7:00PM  The Shop 135 Fourth Street Join us for a causal evening of mixing and mingling, idea sharing, and brainstorming about Downtown Troy at The Shop, located at 135 Fourth Street, Troy! No RSVP is required and all are welcome. Light hors d'oeuvres will be served and a cash bar will be available. Any questions can be directed to Danielle at 518-279-7997 DISCOVER TROY:  How to use your Surroundings to Recruit & Retain Top Talent! Tuesday, April 21st, 7:45-9:00AM City Station 1520 Sixth Ave Dean Iacovetti, Director of Recruiting for Apprenda, has grown Apprenda's employee base from just over 20 employees to 80 in under two years, with plans to reach 100 in 6 months. Troy's downtown was a key factor for Apprenda choosing their Troy location in the Hedley Building over competitive locations like Saratoga Springs, Albany, Malta, and Clifton Park. Iacovetti will be the keynote speaker of this event designed to showcase why Troy is an asset when trying to recruit and keep top talent. Our downtown is an attraction for employees. Come meet representatives from downtown businesses and organizations and leave with material highlighting all of the great things to do here in Troy. Light refreshments will be served. Contact us at info@troybid.org to participate or if you have questions. :: SAVE THE DATE ::  Downtown Troy BID 2015 Events Calendar Troy River Fest:: Saturday, June 20th Rockin' on the River :: Every Wednesday from June 10th to August 12th  Troy Pig Out :: Friday, July 10th & Saturday July 11th 9th Annual Chowderfest :: Sunday, October 11th Thank you to our 2014 Event Sponsors:                                                  Call for Interns! Are you a college student interested in Special Events, Marketing, Graphic Design, or Community Development?  The BID might be the perfect place for you.  Gain valuable experience while celebrating Downtown.  If you are interested, please send us your resume at info@troybid.org  business development     The Downtown Troy BID is excited to welcome the  following new businesses to our District:    Karma Hair Studio 265 River Street Karma Hair Studio practices the idea of living a karmic life, with the belief in the importance of externally and internally creating a loving positive circle within our daily lives.  Through the art of holistic hair care, the studio will provide its clients with a professional, caring, and uplifting experience. Karma Hair Studio uses all natural products for all their hair care services.  Their team of stylists believe it is important to educate their clients with the knowledge of what they are using on their bodies.   member events RUCK U: Farmhouse Ale & Wine Pairing Wednesday, April 1st, 7:00-9:00PM The Ruck 104 Third Street Ruck U will be continuing the semester with a very special discussion along with a very special guest. This class we will have a Farmhouse Ale and Wing Pairing, with none other than the guy who wrote the book on Farmhouse Ales, Phil Markowski! Phil is the head brewer at Two Roads Brewing, who also wrote a book about the classic farmhouse ale.  Make sure you register for this class as early as possible because spots are limited. You can do so by calling the bar at (518) 273-1872 and sign up for your reservation, or by e-mailing Nick Nuzzolilo at Nuzzy@getrucked.com.     Meditation by Donation Wednesday, April 8th, 8:45AM A Space to Grow 216 River Street The Wednesday Morning half hour meditation sessions are divided into two 15-minute segments and is based on the Zen practices of sitting meditation (zazen) and walking meditation (kinhin). These empowering and practical forms of meditation are practiced with open eyes and complete awareness. Registration recommended.  Volkswalk Troy Saturday, April 11, 10:00AM Best Western Franklin Square Inn 1 Fourth Street A 'volkswalk' is a leisurely walk (typically 10k or 6.2 miles. A 3 mile route is also offered) through a scenic and or historic area over a pre-marked trail.  This trail  is rated 1A  follows city streets, passing business district , antique district, many historical homes, Russell Sage College, Monuments, and shoreline of Hudson River, crosses the Green Island Bridge (former RR Bridge), Erie Canal Nat'l Heritage. Info is available at www.walkescv.org Whiskey for Women  Wednesday, April 16th, 6:00-10:00PM The Shop 135 Fourth Street Well, it's happening: vodka sales are down and whiskey sales are up. Why? Because women have freed themselves of socially engineered norms that tell them that as women they are only supposed to drink "lady-like" cocktails. I beg the question, what's not lady-like about whiskey? To celebrate women who drink whiskey, join us at The Shop the third Wednesday of the month for our Women for Whiskey events. We will be offering a special whiskey-based cocktail menu discounted for ladies only. Men, you are more than welcome to order from this menu, but ladies, this is your night. Troy Savings Bank Music Hall 35th Annual Gala Thursday, April 16th, 5:30PM Franklin Plaza 4 Fourth Street On Thursday, April 16, 2015, the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Corporation will celebrate its 35th Annual Gala at the beautiful Franklin Plaza, located just blocks away from the Hall.  This year, Vincent Lepera, AIA of architecture+, is being honored for his lifetime commitment to the preservation of historic buildings and ecologically sensitive architecture and has been involved in many notable downtown Troy projects, including the Rice Building and the Music Hall.  Paul and Alane Hohenberg will be recognized with a Lifetime Service Award.  Through their volunteerism, support, and board management expertise, they have been involved in the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall since its inception. With community leaders, local artists, politicians and lovers of the arts in attendance, the Gala will certainly be an evening of entertainment and excitement.  If you are interested in joining our celebration, please contact our administrative office for further details.   Taste of Home Wednesday, April 22nd, 6:00PM The Shop 135 River Street The owners of The Shop and head chef Rich Matthews are proud to announce their monthly Taste of Home event.  Held on the last Wednesday of each month, Chef Rich will prepare a classic home style meal and The Shop will then post the recipe to its website the following Sunday.  The event is designed to engage the community in food based conversation and to inspire home cooks and aspiring cooks alike. McQueen Comedy Show Thursday, April 23rd, 7:30PM Revolution Hall 417-425 River Street Come to Brown's Brewing Company's Revolution Hall for an original comedy show featuring McQueen Adams with special guest Ben Rosen. There will be a silent auction and 50/50 raffle to benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Tickets are $20 in advance, $30 at the door. Get your tickets HERE. Live @ The Beat Shop River Street Beat Shop 197 River Street Saturday, April 4th, 1:00PM - Big Frank & the Bargain Bingers Saturday, April 11th, 1:00PM - Robert Fleming Saturday, April 18th, 1:00PM - National Record Store Day with The Mysteios and Wreckless Eric & Amy Rigby Saturday, April 25th, 1:00PM - Off the Record The Arts Center Events The Arts Center of the Capital Region 265 River Street Wednesday, April 1st, 7:00PM - TOO: Artist Talk with Melinda McDaniel and John McQueen Monday, April 20th, 7:00PM  - Bookmarks Reading & Performance Series: Speaking Truth to Power Friday, April 24th, 12:00PM  - Collar City Craft Fest Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Concerts Troy Savings Bank Music Hall 30 Second Street Wednesday, April 1st, 8:00PM - An Intimate Solo/Acoustic Evening with Citizen Cope Friday, April 10th, 8:00PM - Sweet Plantain Quartet Thursday, April 16th, 7:30PM - Cladh Nua Saturday, April 18th, 8:00PM - Paula Poundstone Sunday, April 19th, 3:00PM - The Amadeus Orchestra  Thursday, April 23rd, 8:00PM - Mary Chapin Carpenter Saturday, April 25th, 7:30PM - The Empire Youth Orchestra Concert Sunday, April 26th, 3:00PM - Mozart Orchestra of New York Music at Dinosaur BBQ Dinosaur Bar-B-Que 377 River Street Friday, April 3rd, 9:00PM - Capital Underground 28th Anniversary Saturday, April 4th, 9:30PM - Super 400 w. Maria Zemantauski Friday, April 10th, 9:00PM - Stripped (Rolling Stones Tribute) Saturday, April 11th, 9:30PM - Emerald City Friday, April 17th, 9:00PM - The North & South Dakotas wsg Steve Candlen Saturday, April 18th, 9:30PM - FlackJacket wsg Run for Cover Friday, April 24th, 9:00PM - One Night Stand Saturday, April 25th, 9:30PM - High Peaks Band member news Groff Networks New Location! Groff Networks has moved from its previous location at 11 State Street to its new home, just blocks away at 81 Fourth Street. The new location  offers triple the space for the office, and was once the home of Aronson Fur, which closed sometime in the mid-20th century. Groff Networks is now the neighbor of the Rensselaer County Chamber of Commerce, whose offices are just across the street in the refurbished Proctor's Theater building.  Looking to get BID support of your event? With the growing interest in our downtown, more and more of our members are starting their own events, and we couldn't be happier! If you are a BID member (property owner, business owner, resident, etc.) and you're looking to hold an event in our district, fill outTHIS FORM. The application gives us an idea of what you would like to do, and lets you tell us your expectations of support. We're excited to work with you! getting involved Petition to be a BID Board Member! Seats are opening up this year for the BID Board of Directors. Seats are open under Class A (owners or representatives of owners of real commercial property located within the Business Improvement District) and Class B (commercial tenants or representatives of commercial tenants of the Business Improvement District). Additionally, if you are interested in becoming a BID Board Member, you may want to familiarize yourself with the BID's By-Laws.   If you meet the class requirements and would like to be considered a candidate, please download and complete the petion. Candidates must obtain at least 20 signatures from members of their class.The deadline to submit petitions is Tuesday, April 7th.  Click Here to Download Nomination Petition   The BID is always looking for volunteer committee members in the following areas: Special Events (Meets the third Monday of the month, 5:30pm @ 60 2nd St.)  Business Development (Meets the 2nd Wednesday of every month, 9:00AM @ BID Office)  Marketing & Member Services (Meets the 3rd Tuesday of every month, 9:00AM@ BID Office)  Public Services & Beautification (Meets the 2nd Tuesday of every month,5:30PM @ 255 River St, Judge Development)  Fund Development (Meets the first Thursday of every month, at noon at the Rensselaer County Chamber of Commerce) Please contact Erin in the BID office at (518) 279-7997 or email info@troybid.org if you would like to join! There are no requirements - anyone is welcome. Committees meet once per month; they are a great way to help the community and meet new people who all love Troy.    share your news with us  We'd be happy to spread the word about your Downtown Troy news and events! Send an e-mail to info@troybid.org or list it on our website downtowntroy.org  and we'll include the information in our next monthly newsletter.