Equity in innovation
Equity in Innovation is a three-phase entrepreneurial training series offered by the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator and the Binghamton University led New Energy New York initiative. Started during the COVID-19 pandemic as a collaboration initiative between the Koffman and the Support Black Business 607 (SBB607) Facebook community, the training series supports and encourages entrepreneurs from every background and identity from Binghamton to Corning, NY. The series aims to increase equity and representation throughout the battery supply chain and encourage diverse entrepreneurs to launch and accelerate new or existing businesses. All classes are held in person at the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator.
Phase 1: Customer Discovery Crash Course
The Customer Discovery Crash Course, presented by the Koffman in conjunction with New Energy New York, consists of a dynamic three day workshop designed to equip participants with essential business tools using the innovative Business Model Canvas framework. Throughout the program, participants delve into fundamental business plan concepts while honing in on the development of their minimum viable product. Guided by seasoned experts, participants explore critical aspects such as business organization, financial strategies, crafting compelling value propositions, and the art of building a robust network. Venturing into the realm of real-world customer discovery, participants engage in hands-on exercises aimed at uncovering insights and validating their business ideas with their target audience, sharing their findings with the group on day three of the program. Upon completion of the course, a select few participants will be extended invitations to progress to the next phase of programming.
Phase 2: 12-Week Minority Business Accelerator
Participants chosen to advance to the Minority Business Accelerator embark on a transformative journey, equipping them with the knowledge and skills essential for thriving in today’s dynamic industry landscape. Grounded in the framework of the Business Model Canvas, participants delve into crucial areas such as market validation, strategic pricing strategies, and the cultivation of diverse revenue streams. Culminating in the creation of a compelling pitch deck, this comprehensive curriculum is enriched by a blend of expert guidance from Koffman staff and additional local presenters. Upon successful completion of the accelerator program, participants emerge primed to pursue capital investment opportunities, establish a brick-and-mortar presence, and compete for supply chain contracts in various industries including within the NENY Supplier Diversity program.
Phase 3: The Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) Certification Readiness Course
The Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) Certification Readiness Course prepares participants for New York State’s MWBE Certification Process. In this final phase of the series, participants deep dive into topics such as procurement and supplier diversity strategies. Participants gain knowledge on becoming a supplier for local and state governments and what it takes to succeed in various fast-paced and lucrative set-aside programs. The course walks participants through initial application requirements and discusses the steps and documents needed to become a fully recognized MWBE-certified business. Koffman staff and local presenters provide education, guidance, and small business support to aid in obtaining NYS and NENY certification.
Upcoming Course Schedule
Customer Discovery Crash Course
All classes held from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M.
- Session 1: March 20, 21 & April 11
- Session 2: May 29,30 & June 13
- Session 3: October 9, 10 & 24
- Session 4: November 6, 7 & 21
Minority Business Accelerator
All classes held from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M.
- Session 1: Every Thursday, July 11- September 26 (No class Aug 29 & Sept 5)
MWBE Readiness Course
All classes held from 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
- Session 1: May 4, 11, 18 & June 1, 8, 15
- Session 2: November 2, 9, 16 & December 7, 14, 21