Please join me in welcoming the CEL Core Class of 2010. We have a great group of business leaders from a diverse list of industries. Class kicked off on September 9th. We look forward to another great year in Core as everyone begins to get acclimated to the “CEL Experience”. Please make sure to say hello to the new class.
We have been busy at the Center and I’d like to take a minute to update you with all that has transpired over the past several months, including some new upcoming programming:
· We recently completed a strategic plan for the Center and it has been approved by Dean Assad and the advisory board. We recently shared our plan with the Alumni Association. It is safe to say that the process was long, but well worth the effort as we’ve identified a path moving forward that aligns tightly with the CELAA and its membership. In summary…we are moving toward becoming a “world class” Center of Entrepreneurial Excellence over the next five years.
· We are rolling out some new programming for 2009-2010 that includes:
o Continuing Learning Series coming in early 2010. This will be an opportunity for alumni to engage in specific learning on such topics as finance, HR, strategic planning, etc. You can engage a hi-level learning experience for 4-6 weeks geared towards your current needs.
o “Strategic Entrepreneurship” (Advance Core) is launched in September 2009 with two classes. This course is only open to graduates of the Core Program and is the next step in moving your business forward. The program recently received a $25,000 sponsorship from First Niagara Bank to help kick off the inaugural year of what is sure to be a perennially popular program at the Center.
o “Key Person Classes” coming in 2010. An opportunity to send your employees to experience CEL and bring them up to the next level. This course will be for non-owners and approx. ten weeks long.
o “Hi-Tech CEL” – launched September 2009. This is a ten week course for lead entrepreneurs of Life Science Companies that are in the early stage of development. The course was created in conjunction with the NYS Center of Excellence and is being funded in part by a grant from the Workforce Investment Board.
· The Allstate Minority & Women Emerging Entrepreneurs class graduates in December. There are currently 26 people enrolled and being mentored by CEL Core grads. We had exciting news this August when Lenny Johnson (Class of 2009) was chosen as Minority Entrepreneur of the Year for SBA District II. He was honored in late August at a conference that included a White House reception in Washington. Congratulations Lenny.
· The Panasci Technology Competition is gearing up. If you know any students or recent UB grads that might be interested in taking a shot at a $10,000 prize to start their business have them contact us.
Lastly, I’d be remiss not to mention the support of our outstanding team; Janine Tramont and Linda Anderson. They are the team that makes it all happen. Trust me, it wouldn’t happen without them and I’m thankful to have them on the CEL team.
We look forward to continuing to work with each of you in the CEL network. You are a powerful voice for business in Western New York and working together you can be a catalyst for WNY’s revival and long term success. Please don’t ever hesitate to call the CEL office if we can be of service.