Equity In Innovation
Program Overview
The Equity in Innovation Training Program supports diverse entrepreneurs from Binghamton, Elmira, Corning and Alfred, NY. The program, offered by the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator and Binghamton University’s New Energy New York initiative, advocates for and advances equity in the battery and energy storage supply chain while fostering new business growth. These classes held in person at the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator, provide business development at various stages to support and bolster business owners of protected classes.
Participants gain insights and knowledge from industry leaders through our comprehensive support system. We offer valuable connections, enabling startups to network with key stakeholders and potential investors. Our state-of-the-art laboratories provide access to advanced technology and research facilities, fostering innovation and development.
Course 1: Customer Discovery Crash Course
A dynamic three-day workshop using the Business Model Canvas to understand their ideal customers while developing a minimum viable product and validating their business ideas. Participants receive guidance on business organization, financial strategies, and network building. They engage in real-world customer discovery exercises, culminating in a group presentation on the third day.
Course 2: 12-Week Small Business Accelerator
This course equips participants with essential skills for thriving in today’s industry landscape. Using the Business Model Canvas, participants explore market validation, strategic pricing, and revenue diversification. The curriculum includes creating a compelling pitch deck and gaining insights from Koffman staff and local presenters. Graduates are prepared to seek capital investments, establish brick-and-mortar locations, and compete for supply chain contracts, including those within the NENY Supplier Diversity program.
Course 3: MWBE Certification Readiness
This course prepares participants for New York State’s MWBE certification process. It covers procurement and supplier diversity strategies, guiding participants through the application requirements and necessary documentation. The course provides education and support to help businesses become fully recognized MWBE-certified entities. Participants learn how to succeed in local and state government procurement and various lucrative set-aside programs, with assistance from Koffman staff and local experts.
Who Should Apply?
The Equity in Innovation Training Program is ideal for entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds who are committed to increasing equity and representation in business. This comprehensive program is tailored for individuals aiming to launch or grow their businesses, with a special focus on those interested in the battery supply chain and minority-owned business certification. Conducted in person at the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator, the program offers valuable networking opportunities and fosters a strong foundation for regional inclusivity. Contact us to learn more.
Program Timeline and Key Dates:
Customer Discovery Crash Course: All classes held on Thursday’s from 6:00 – 8:00 PM
- Session 3: October 9, 10 & 3 Class TBD
- Session 4: November 6, 7 & 21
Minority Business Accelerator: Applications for Summer 2024 course are now closed.
MWBE Readiness Course: All classes held on Saturday’s from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Session 2: November 2, 9, 16 & December 7, 14, 21
Program Team
Ebony Hattoh
Associate Director, Equity and Justice Program Director, Instructor
Additional Resource
Black Entrepreneur Network (BEN)
The Black Entrepreneur Network (BEN), an initiative by the Koffman and New Energy New York, is dedicated to empowering Black-owned businesses in the Southern Tier region of upstate NY. Leveraging a robust ecosystem of entrepreneurship and innovation, BEN offers comprehensive support including advocacy, industry expertise, research, and funding access.
BEN connects Black-owned businesses with the clean energy sector and gives members access to Koffman’s entrepreneur ecosystem, a network database, and exclusive events.
BEN promotes MWBE participation and fosters impactful connections. Join BEN to drive equity and innovation in upstate New York.
For more information on BEN Contact Ebonoy Hattoh, Program Director.
