Knowledge @ Noon: How Can a Makerspace Supercharge a Manufacturing Community?
2024-03-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | NY
Makerspaces have become a fixture of vibrant, creative communities, taking different forms to meet local needs.
Tech Valley Center of Gravity, the Capital Region’s makerspace, has provided equitable access to the resources, equipment, and education necessary to bring physical things to life since its founding in 2013. Hear about how new and established manufacturing businesses have benefited from makerspace access, as well as the untapped potential for continued growth of a talented, passionate manufacturing community in the Capital Region.
Meet Our Presenter:
Dan Falkenstrom is the Operations Director at Tech Valley Center of Gravity. Dan started with TVCOG as a member and volunteer in 2013, and now leads their staff in managing daily operations. He received a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from RPI, and subsequently spent several years in manufacturing engineering roles at Pratt & Whitney, Knolls Atomic Power Lab, and General Electric.

Register Here!

Following the presentation there will be an opportunity for Q&A.

Thank you to our sponsors:

Unlocking Talent: Workforce Solutions & Apprenticeship Opportunities
2024-04-09 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
We know that the need for skilled talent is a top concern for manufacturers in the Capital Region. Starting with assessments, CEG can help you identify and implement key strategies for improving your talent attraction and retention effort.
Hear from Senior Vice President of Business Growth Solutions and?MEP Center?Director, Don Wiesenforth and Director of Workforce Development, Christine McLear about the workforce services offered by CEG, including an overview of what Registered Apprenticeship is and how companies across the Capital Region have been utilizing this time-tested model.
Join us on Tuesday, April 9 for Knowledge @ Noon to learn about more about local workforce solutions.

Meet Our Presenters:

Christine McLear is the Workforce Development Director at the Center for Economic Growth where she provides oversight and direction for regional workforce initiatives. She oversees CEG’s group sponsor program for NYS Registered Apprenticeship. With a particular focus on Advanced Manufacturing, this program brings a person-centered approach to attraction and retention efforts for Capital Region companies. Formerly at SUNY Schenectady County Community College, she managed programs in Craft Brewing and Distilling, Information Technology, and Healthcare. Christine graduated from Ithaca College with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and is a graduate of the New Leaders Council and Leadership Capital Region (formerly Leadership Tech Valley).??
Don Wiesenforth is the Senior Vice President, Business Growth Solutions and Center Director for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) at the Center for Economic Growth. Don is a seasoned leader with 26+ years’ diverse experience, owning a manufacturing company, co-founding an exhibition management firm, and leading lean transformations. As a strategic advisor, he excels in servant leadership, fostering staff engagement, operational excellence, and change management. Don is certified in TWI, a blackbelt in Innovation Engineering, and a proficient lean leader. He holds an MBA from SUNY Albany and a BS in Marketing Management from Bentley College.

Register Here
Following the presentation there will be an opportunity for Q&A.

Thank you to our sponsors:

Startup Tech Valley
2024-04-17 17:30 - 19:00 | Brown’s Revolution Hall, 425 River St, Troy, NY, 12180
What is Startup Tech Valley?
Meetup for first-time entrepreneurs, experienced entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, students, employees of startups, service providers to startups, and anyone else who wants to be involved or is curious.
What to Expect
Connect + Engage. Start with networking and then get introduced to startups through informal pitch sessions.
No cost to attend, however RSVP is required. Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar available.
5:30pm Networking | 6:00 – 7:00pm Pitch Sessions
Doors open at 5:00pm
Register Now!
Can’t make it in person? Watch the livestream here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdFixi-oKgw
This month’s program includes pitches from*:
FurnitureBnB
FurnitureBnB is a one-stop shop web platform to outfit themed Short Term Rentals [properties] with thoughtfully curated collections of high-impact furniture known to increase rental revenue. Sourcing and selecting photogenic pieces so you don’t have to. Which, in turn, makes beautiful design quick and easily accessible to the investor/owner.
Thin Air

Thin Air eliminates the concept of “tabs” on your computer. It introduces a new computer interface enabling you to have more screen space with no additional monitors. Organize, work, and collaborate like never before on Thin Air.

Helios
As a research and data science organization, our mission is to further the frontiers of speech analytics. We strive to redefine tone of voice by detecting subtle cues in executive communication invisible to the human ear. Our data services deliver an informational edge to help clients anticipate stock moves, spot incongruities between words and tone, and navigate volatility with confidence.
WolfJaw
Wolfjaw Studios is a development studio based in Troy, New York, developing online game services with a keen focus on player experience.
*Subject to change
Presented in collaboration by:

Venture NY - Upstate Capital
2024-04-24 12:00 - 17:00 | NY
Venture NY is the marquee early-stage event for Upstate Capital and provides significant opportunities for early-stage and emerging investors to learn from their peer’s experiences, meet other active investors, and gain exposure to deal flow.
This year focuses on building investor syndicates and raising new investment funds.

Learn more & Register here

NYS Supply Chain Manufacturing Initiatives Grant
2024-05-01 11:00 - 13:00 | NY
Learn how the NYS Supply Chain Manufacturing Initiatives Grant can transform your manufacturing operations. Your supply chain is the backbone of your business, influencing everything from operations to profitability and reputation. This grant offers a unique opportunity for manufacturers to gain invaluable insights into their supply chain management practices through a no-cost supply chain assessment. Additional grant-funded support may be available after the assessment if participants wish to pursue improvement activities.
In this webinar, we’ll delve into the initiatives of the grant, including:
No-cost supply chain assessment

Help manufacturers strengthen supply chain management practices
Identify and prioritize supply chain management process improvements
Custom list of prioritized improvement opportunities

New supplier scouting

Evaluate competing suppliers to obtain best-in-market value
Search and screen for supplier candidates
Connect US manufacturers with US suppliers

Enhancing your competitiveness

Shorter lead times, higher on-time delivery, improved quality
Identify opportunities for reduced costs in materials, transportation, logistics, and inventory
Leverage grant funded resource or local MEP center resources to implement improvements

Join us as we unpack how the NYS Supply Chain Manufacturing Initiatives Grant can empower your business to streamline operations, reduce costs, and boost competitiveness. Fill out the Supply Chain Assessment Inquiry Form today.
Reserve your spot now to learn more about this program and how you can qualify.
Learn More & Register

Web Compliance 101 For Manufacturers
2024-05-16 13:00 - 14:00 | NY
Maintaining web compliance is crucial for website owners. This informative webinar, “Web Compliance 101 for Manufacturers” will provide insights and information on ensuring full accessibility for disabled users, understanding data tracking, and adhering to legal obligations. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), public businesses, including websites, are mandated to provide full accessibility for disabled users.
Topics we’ll cover:

Why website accessibility and data compliance matters
Examples of website compliance tools
Resources, technical standards, and steps you can take now

Ensure full accessibility, learn why compliance is vital, explore compliance tools, and discover actionable steps and resources. Don’t miss out on our upcoming webinar on web accessibility, designed for manufacturers.

Register Here

Managing Risk and Cost in the Global Supply Chain
2024-05-20 11:45 - 17:00 | Port of Albany, 109 Smith Blvd, Albany, NY, 12202
Click to Download a Printable Flyer Here

Principles of Lean Enterprise Methodologies and Simulation
2024-06-13 07:30 - 16:00 | Capital Region Chamber / CEG, 5 Computer Drive South, Albany, NY, 12205, United States
Participants learn first hand how implementing Lean Methodology can improve production by eliminating/reducing non-value added activities.

Lean Manufacturing encompasses a set of continuous improvement techniques that, when implemented, shorten the time between customer order and shipment by eliminating or reducing non-value added activities. One effective approach to capturing the power of Lean is the CEG’s signature Lean Simulation. Working for “Buzz Electronics” (a mock manufacturing facility), participants assemble a product on a simulated factory floor, incorporating the various principles of Lean along the way. By participating in a Lean Simulation, you experience how to use half the manufacturing space and half the effort to produce products in half the time with fewer defects.
SIMULATION OBJECTIVES
This full-day program combines a comprehensive classroom presentation with hands-on simulation of a production facility. In this workshop, we introduce the basic concepts of Lean Manufacturing and demonstrate the tools and methodology necessary to implement “lean” on the shop floor.
Participants act as production workers, applying the lean tools to their individual workspaces as well as across the entire product line. This learn-do technique over four “shifts” illustrates cause and effect relationships for the lean tools presented. Participants review methodology and lessons learned from previous shifts, deciding what and how to implement while working with realistic constraints such as available resources, cash flow and resistance to change.
TOPICS COVERED
• Traditional Manufacturing
• Defining Lean
• Eight Wastes
• Standardized Work
• Total Productive Maintenance
• Visual Controls
• Workplace Organization (5S)
• Plant Layout
• Quick Changeover
• Point of Use Storage
• Quality at the Source
• Pull Systems
• Cellular Flow Manufacturing
• Batch Size Reduction
• Takt Time
• Work Balancing
• Keys to Success
BENEFITS OF THE LEAN MANUFACTURING OVERVIEW
Participants will learn how to identify the eight wastes in manufacturing and experience how productivity can be improved by applying standard work, visual controls, quick changeover, batch size reduction, point-of-use storage, quality at the source, pull systems and more.
*Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided.
***PLEASE NOTE DATE HAS CHANGED FROM 5/7 to 6/13***

Reserve your spot here!

Knowledge @ Noon: Pathways to Employment: Reintegrating Historically Underrepresented Populations Through The Roadmap To Success
2024-09-10 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Join our upcoming Knowledge @ Noon webinar on Tuesday, September 10.
Discover actionable strategies for reintegrating historically marginalized groups into the workforce. Join presenter Trent Griffin-Braaf, CEO & Founder Tech Valley Shuttle; GB Logistics, as we explore the ‘Roadmap to Success,’ outlining pathways to employment for underrepresented populations. From tailored training programs to hiring best practices, learn how to have success with the hidden workforce in the workplace.
Meet Our Presenter:
Trent Griffin-Braaf is an award-winning entrepreneur and visionary leader recognized as one of Forbes Next 1000 Entrepreneurs and the SBA Small Business Person of the Year for New York State. He is also celebrated as one of the Top 100 Social CEOs. With a proven track record of creating successful startups, Trent’s true secret sauce lies in his deep commitment to people. Under his leadership, his company was named as the best place in the country for justice-impacted individuals to work. Reflecting his dedication to building inclusive and high-performing teams and solidifying his reputation as a specialist in this field. His exceptional talent lies in nurturing and harnessing business potential, both in terms of enterprise and team development and showing others how to do the same. (Read Trent’s full bio here)

Register here

Thank you to our sponsors:

Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series, offered through the Manufacturing Innovation Network, powered by CEG, designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insight and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organization learn and grow.

Startup Tech Valley
2024-09-18 17:30 - 19:00 | Brown’s Revolution Hall, 425 River St, Troy, NY, 12180
What is Startup Tech Valley?
Meetup for first-time entrepreneurs, experienced entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, students, employees of startups, service providers to startups, and anyone else who wants to be involved or is curious.
What to Expect:

Connect + Engage. Start with networking and then get introduced to startups through informal pitch sessions.
No cost to attend, however RSVP is required.
Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar available.
5:30pm Networking | 6:00 – 7:00pm Pitch Sessions

This month’s program includes pitches from*:
Eternal ME
Eternal Me helps advisors, planners, and lawyers protect their clients, save time administering estates, and generate new business with our next-generation digital estate and legacy management software and services.
Ten Talents
Ten Talents is on a mission to eliminate spam and enable businesses to find clients at scale. They provide advanced, personalized data services to ensure sales outreach is relevant and authentic. Valuing respect and integrity, Ten Talents helps businesses make impactful connections with high-value prospects through innovative and scalable solutions.
Ethermed
Ethermed is solving the $80B+ prior authorization problem in healthcare.? Our solution is Invisibly Uplifting™, seamlessly integrating with customers’ existing tools, and operating in the background to automatically pre-fill and submit prior authorizations with no human involvement.? We are live, at scale and performant with our first customer, in late-stage contract redlines with our second, and we have a large pipeline of active payor and provider opportunities.
*Subject to change
Hear an update from Can Code Communities!
Can’t make the event, watch it live here: Livestream link

Register here>>

Presented in collaboration by:

Manufacturer's Only Event: Digital Fab Showcase & Sip
2024-10-10 17:00 - 19:30 | Tech Valley Center of Gravity, 30 3rd Street, Troy, NY, 12180, United States
Manufacturers! Join us at the Tech Valley Center of Gravity (TVCOG)—a dynamic makerspace and manufacturing incubator—where digital fabrication becomes an accessible resource for small manufacturers and startups. This event opens doors to opportunities in prototyping, small-batch production, and customized solutions. In addition, TVCOG offers hands-on professional development training, a customizable resource for upskilling your team in a variety of fabrication methods.
Experience a showcase of cutting-edge machinery in action, including multiple 3D printers, CNC equipment (router, mill, lathe), laser cutters, and a robotic arm. You’ll have the opportunity to witness these technologies firsthand, explore their capabilities, and discuss how you can leverage access to supplement your existing facility (or, use it for your entire operation).

Register here

Startup Saratoga
2024-10-23 17:30 - 19:00 | Universal Preservation Hall, 25 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs, 12866
This collaboration between the Saratoga County Chamber & Startup Tech Valley offers a meetup for a diverse group, including first-time and experienced entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, students, startup employees, service providers, and anyone interested or curious about getting involved.
What to Expect:

Connect + Engage. Start with networking and then get introduced to startups through informal pitch sessions.
No cost to attend, however RSVP is required.
Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar available.
5:30pm Networking | 6:00 – 7:00pm Pitch Sessions

Presenters: To be confirmed
Register here>>

Presented in collaboration by:

Knowledge @ Noon: Maximizing Lead Generation: Aligning Sales, Marketing, and Technology for Manufacturers
2024-11-12 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
In this month’s Knowledge @ Noon webinar, we will explore innovative strategies for manufacturing companies to increase qualified leads. Learn how to effectively align sales, marketing, and technology to create a lead-generation engine that actually works. Our experts will share insights on data-driven prospecting, content optimization for the manufacturing sector, and implementing integrated systems that drive results. Discover practical techniques to overcome industry-specific challenges and position your company for sustainable growth in the competitive manufacturing landscape. We will leave time for questions at the end.
Meet our presenters:
Christopher Ryan, CEO & Supreme Commander, SIX Marketing, is a serial entrepreneur with a remarkable journey that began at six when he founded his first successful venture, opening a blackberry business that partnered with the renowned local figure, Farmer John.
With a career spanning over 25 years in marketing, Christopher’s expertise evolved through ownership of a thriving promotional company and leadership as the Director of Marketing at a prominent pharmaceutical chain. Over twelve years ago, he founded SIX with an ambitious mission to revolutionize the traditional advertising agency model by aligning marketing, sales, and technology to maximize growth.
Today, SIX excels in empowering the manufacturing industry through specialized marketing solutions. In addition to his role at SIX Marketing, Christopher also owns another successful business focused on providing turn-key supply chain management for manufacturers, streamlining their processes. Christopher’s unwavering commitment to the success of manufacturing businesses allows him to offer invaluable insights to those striving to excel in the competitive market.
Under Christopher’s visionary leadership, SIX Marketing has become an industry powerhouse, leaving an indelible mark on countless enterprises. With his passion, expertise, and dedication, Christopher Ryan continues to steer the company towards unparalleled success, shaping a brighter future for businesses worldwide. He can be reached at cfr@six.marketing.

Leah Parillo, VP Business Development, SIX Marketing, brings a wealth of experience from her diverse marketing roles. She is VP of Business Development at SIX Marketing, specializing in manufacturing marketing and contributing significantly to the company’s growth.
Before her role at SIX Marketing, Leah was at RenderTribe, initially as a Strategic Marketing Consultant and later as VP of Consulting Services/Account Management.
In November 2009, Leah founded Parillo Prime Marketing, focusing on SaaS, finance, and technology, and served as its Founder until July 2015. Before this, she worked at McMurry/TMG, LLC, where she was Senior Account Manager/Strategic Marketing Consultant. Her responsibilities included developing new product lines and mentoring the account management team.
Leah’s earlier career included Marketing Director at RainMaker Software, where she played a crucial role in expanding the business, ultimately leading to its acquisition. Beyond her marketing expertise, Leah also performs as a studio singer and entertainer. You can reach out to her at leah@six.marketing.

Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series, offered through the Manufacturing Innovation Network, powered by CEG, designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insight and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organization learn and grow.
Register Here

Startup Tech Valley Extended Happy Hour
2024-11-20 17:00 - 20:00 | NY
November is a time for gratitude and reconnecting with family and/or friends. This month, we’re skipping the formal pitches and hosting an extended happy hour, where the drinks are plentiful and the conversations flow just as freely!
Whether you’re an entrepreneur or just someone with a passion for innovation, this is the perfect chance to:
Unwind with refreshing beverages and delicious bites
Network with like-minded professionals and potential collaborators
Register here

Startup Tech Valley
2024-12-18 17:30 - 19:00 | Brown’s Revolution Hall, 425 River St, Troy, NY, 12180
What is Startup Tech Valley?
Meetup for first-time entrepreneurs, experienced entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, students, employees of startups, service providers to startups, and anyone else who wants to be involved or is curious.
What to Expect:

Connect + Engage. Start with networking and then get introduced to startups through informal pitch sessions.
No cost to attend, however RSVP is required.
Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar available.
5:30pm Networking | 6:00 – 7:00pm Pitch Sessions

This month’s program includes pitches will – presenters will be announced soon!
Bring a Toy and Spread Holiday Cheer!
We’ve partnered with Toys for Tots for our final event of the year! Help make this holiday season magical for children in need! Bring a new, unwrapped toy to the event, and together, we’ll fill our toy box with gifts for kids who could use a little extra joy this season.
Your generosity will bring a smile to a child’s face and create holiday memories that last a lifetime. Let’s make this season brighter—one toy at a time.
Meet the Presenters:
Last Letter First is a fun and educational word game suitable for all ages. The game offers endless variations and can be played solo or with friends. It’s available on app stores and the web in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Hindi, with Russian and Ukrainian support coming soon.
RoadMap Technologies, a management consulting and data science company, has launched a forecasting software suite that simplifies business planning. Using AI, deep learning, and machine learning, it offers over 45 advanced models from top tech leaders, enabling users to forecast from Excel data, save results, quantify uncertainty, visualize insights, and generate AI-driven analysis.
Faction Networks offers a private, secure alternative to traditional internet connectivity, addressing the risks of a hyperconnected world dominated by AI, IoT, and cyber threats. Much like Zoom revolutionized videoconferencing, Faction Networks aims to transform the VPN and SDN markets.
Logatot streamlines child care compliance and communication with voice-command technology, reducing administrative burdens. Providers can focus on children while automating paperwork and family updates, making child care careers more sustainable and rewarding.
Aurox uses drones and advanced analytics to help local and international dairy farms optimize operations. They provide precision feed inventory tracking, shrink analysis, and forecasting through drone imagery and their FeedSense Dashboard, enabling data-driven decisions to boost profitability and safety.

Register to attend

Knowledge @ Noon: Energy 101 - Utility Bills, State Policies and Customer Opportunities.
2025-02-11 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Join us for an insightful webinar exploring energy utility bills and state policies from a legal perspective. Couch White Energy Partners, Jay Goodman and Bob Loughney, will break down utility bills, explain New York State energy policies and how they impact your utility costs, and discuss energy project and contract opportunities. Learn how Couch White can assist with utility issues, contract review and negotiation, dispute resolution, and provide regulatory support to help you navigate the complexities of utility service and costs.
Presenters:
Jay Goodman
Jay assists clients before the New York State Public Service Commission, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection in matters involving utilities and electric system operators. This work includes administrative proceedings regarding the development of wholesale electricity market rules and energy rates and regulatory policies, and advising on energy policies intended to promote renewable energy, electric storage, distributed energy resources, and electric vehicles. Read the full bio here.

Bob Loughney
Bob has specialized in Energy Law for more than 35 years. Bob regularly appears on behalf of clients before the State of New York Public Service Commission, the New York Independent System Operator, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. He is well-versed with respect to deregulated energy markets and represents clients in administrative proceedings addressing energy rates and policies, and advises them on energy transactions, renewable power development, tariff interpretation, energy contract claims, and utility billing disputes. Read the full bio here.

Register here
Knowledge @ Noon is a webinar series, offered through the Manufacturing Solutions Network, powered by CEG, designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insight and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organization learn and grow.

Startup Tech Valley
2025-02-20 17:30 - 20:00 | Brown’s Revolution Hall, 425 River St, Troy, NY, 12180
What to Expect:

Connect + Engage. Start with networking and then get introduced to startups through informal pitch sessions.
No cost to attend, however RSVP is required.
Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar available.
5:30pm Networking | 6:00 – 7:00pm Pitch Sessions

Presenters: To be confirmed

Presented in collaboration by:

Knowledge @ Noon: Data-Driven Manufacturing: Leveraging Dashboards and AI for Improved Production
2025-03-11 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
In our next Knowledge @ Noon webinar, held on Tuesday, March 11, discover how data visualization can revolutionize your manufacturing operations. We’ll dive into the world of manufacturing dashboards, revealing how real-time data can streamline decision-making, boost efficiency, and enhance productivity on the shop floor. Learn the best practices for designing dashboards that provide instant, actionable insights, and see firsthand how integrating AI can take your data to the next level by predicting trends and preventing issues before they arise. With a live demonstration, you’ll walk away with practical skills to create your own powerful dashboards, transforming data into a strategic asset for your business.
Speaker Biographies:
Tim Blake is a dynamic CEO with a passion for leveraging data-driven insights to transform manufacturing operations. Specializing in the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, Tim has worked with top companies like Blackstone, JnJ, and Mastercard, helping them unlock the power of real-time data through dashboards and analytics. As an expert in Power BI and other Microsoft tools, he emphasizes that true innovation comes from empowering teams to use data effectively, driving both operational efficiency and business growth.
Shannon Lynch is a skilled Power BI trainer and developer, dedicated to empowering manufacturers with the skills to visualize and interpret their data effectively. She specializes in crafting intuitive dashboards that provide actionable insights, helping businesses optimize their production processes. With a strong focus on data literacy, Shannon ensures that her trainees not only master the technical aspects of Power BI but also learn to tell compelling stories through their data, enhancing decision-making across all levels of an organization.
Session Outline:

Introduction to Data Visualization in Manufacturing
Overview of the importance of data in modern manufacturing
Quick introduction to manufacturing dashboards and their purpose
Key Types of Manufacturing Dashboards
Mission Control Dashboard: Monitoring overall production and KPIs
Shop Floor Overview Dashboard: Visualizing workflows and identifying bottlenecks
OEE Dashboard: Tracking equipment effectiveness and maintenance needs
Hands-On Data Visualization Techniques
How to effectively use data cards, graphs, and tables in dashboards
Tips for making dashboards intuitive and actionable for operators and managers
Best practices for choosing the right visualizations for different types of data
Integrating AI for Enhanced Insights
Brief overview of AI’s role in predictive maintenance and quality control
How AI can complement dashboards to provide deeper insights (e.g., anomaly detection, forecasting)
Practical Demonstration: Building a Simple Manufacturing Dashboard (15 minutes)
Live demo using a tool like Power BI or Tableau to create a basic dashboard
Quick integration of an AI model for predictive analytics (e.g., predicting machine failures)
Q&A and Key Takeaways
Open floor for questions
Recap of how data visualization and AI can improve manufacturing operations

Knowledge @ Noon is a webinar series, offered through the Manufacturing Solutions Network, powered by CEG, designed to help manufacturers stay up-to-date with the latest trends, ideas, and best practices. Each month will feature a new topic led by industry experts who will share insight and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organization learn and grow.

Startup Tech Valley
2025-03-20 17:30 - 20:00 | Brown’s Revolution Hall, 425 River St, Troy, NY, 12180
Startup Tech Valley is a meetup for the entrepreneurship community in the Capital Region. Attendees include entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, mentors, students, employees of startups, service providers to startups, and anyone else who wants to be involved or is curious.
What to Expect:

Connect + Engage. Start with networking and then get introduced to startups through pitch sessions.
No cost to attend, however RSVP is required.
Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar available.
5:30pm Networking | 6:00 – 7:00pm Pitch Sessions

Plus, don’t miss our entrepreneurship resource spotlights from UAlbany Innovation Center, FuzeHub, Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region and Rensselaer Chamber of Commerce.

Pitch Presenters:
William Lawler – Talinted
Talinted is working to create new technologies to expand the field of gene editing. Talinted is developing gene editing therapies to treat more diseases and make the technology useful in more applications.
Ángel Enríquez – Emboa Medical
Emboa Medical has developed a novel blood clot extraction device to address the prevalent issue of stroke, which is the second leading cause of death in the world. Current tools for surgeons solving ischemic stroke rely on removing blood clots to restore blood flow to the brain. But their tools are limited with smaller sized blood vessels. Using nature-inspired design, Emboa Medical has developed a novel tool that increases blood clot extraction forces regardless of catheter size.
Daniel Van Hoesen – Euler Science
Euler Science is a small team of physicists / data scientists who have expertise in data science, machine-learning, condensed matter, computational biophysics, and related areas. Altogether, we have a combined experience of 15 years in software and web development. Traditional search engines are poorly adapted for fields that rely heavily on exploration and discovery as they adapt rank-based methods for the presentation and interrogation of queries. In many fields, particularly research, identifying and discovering high quality and relevant scientific results and prior art are key to technological advancement. ARCHIMEDES (ARCHetype for IMprovED knowledgE Search) is Euler Science’s upcoming search engine that aims to make the process of exploration and discovery more efficient and intuitive by recontextualizing its problem domain.

REGISTER HERE!

Startup Tech Valley: April 2025
2025-04-17 17:30 - 20:00 | Brown’s Revolution Hall, 425 River St, Troy, NY, 12180
Thursday, April 17 | 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Brown’s Revolution Hall | 425 River Street, Troy, NY 12180

Startup Tech Valley is a meetup for the entrepreneurship community in the Capital Region. Attendees include entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, mentors, students, employees of startups, service providers to startups, and anyone else who wants to be involved or is curious.
What to Expect:
Connect + Engage. Start with networking and then get introduced to startups through pitch sessions.

No cost to attend, however RSVP is required.
Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar available.
5:30pm Networking | 6:00 – 7:00pm Pitch Sessions

This month, we will hear from the track winners of the Capital Region New York Business Plan Competition as they prepare to pitch in the state finals. The Capital Region competition is hosted by Hudson Valley Community College in partnership with Upstate Capital. The finals of the NYBPC will be hosted on April 24, 2025 at RPI.
REGISTER HERE!

Manufacturer's Only: Bots & Brews Networking Event
2025-04-24 17:00 - 19:00 | Frog Alley Brewing, 108 State St., Schenectady, NY, 12305, United States
Join us at The Landing at Frog Alley Brewing for a manufacturer only Bots & Brews on Thursday, April 24 from 5-7 p.m.!
Discover automation in action with RW Earl Automation Solutions live demos of the VISOR® Object AI from SensoPart and the Power Focus 6000 from Atlas Copco.

VISOR® Object AI is a cutting-edge advanced vision sensor that leverages AI for easy setup, robust classification, and precise industrial automation.
The Power Focus 6000 optimizes bolt torque automation with multi-tool control, precise settings, and seamless integration with Universal Robots for error-free assembly.

Enjoy two free drink tickets, a cash bar and a taco bar, all while networking with industry peers.
Register Here!

Startup Tech Valley: May 2025
2025-05-21 08:00 - 17:00 | Launchbox, 6 Northway Lane, Latham, NY, 12110, United States
Wednesday, May 21 | 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Launchbox Flexible Warehouse Suites | 6 Northway Lane Latham, NY 12110

Startup Tech Valley is a meetup for the entrepreneurship community in the Capital Region. Attendees include entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, mentors, students, employees of startups, service providers to startups, and anyone else who wants to be involved or is curious.
What to Expect:

Connect + Engage. Start with networking and then get introduced to startups through pitch sessions.
No cost to attend, however RSVP is required.
Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar available.
5:30pm Networking | 6:00 – 7:00pm Pitch Sessions

This month, we’re partnering with Launchbox Flexible Warehouse Suites in Latham, NY to host our presentations in their space. Launchbox provides individual warehouse and work suites from 150 to 1,000 square feet. For no extra charge, Launchbox members also enjoy access to shared spaces and amenities that combine the advantages of coworking with warehousing to help your business grow.

REGISTER HERE!

Strategies to Offset Tariffs with Foreign Trade Zones
2025-05-28 10:00 | NY

Knowledge @ Noon: Eliminating Hidden Supply Chain Costs
2025-06-17 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Join us for a free Knowledge @ Noon webinar on Tuesday, June 17 to hear how leading manufacturers are tackling these challenges head-on.
PJ Bellomo, CEO of P1ston, Inc., will facilitate a discussion with a panel of supply chain practitioners who will each share their recent successes and ongoing challenges related to automating workflows and improving supplier communications.
Panelists include:

Dave Shannon, CIO, Allegis Corporation
John Hand, VP Supply Chain, P1 Industries
Adam Ampuja, Director Supply Chain, Alex Pro

You’ll learn:

The costly impacts of poor supply chain visibility
Proven tools and strategies that drive results
Challenges still facing the industry – and what’s next

Don’t miss this chance to gain actionable insights from seasoned professionals.
Register Here!

Knowledge @ Noon: DISC - Empower Your Team
2025-07-08 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Join us for a free Knowledge @ Noon webinar on Tuesday, July 8 for DiSC: Empower Your Team featuring Sami Gowan, Director Talent Development, Capital Region Chamber.
The DiSC self-assessment can be utilized to improve communication and to better understand oneself and others. Learn how to adapt your leadership style and work preferences to yield better results and drive collaboration. The DiSC assessment gives your team access to the online Catalyst platform that is a fully customized learning hub that reflects your unique team dynamic and supports continued learning.

Samantha (Sami) Gowan joined the Chamber team in November of 2022. She has played a pivotal role as the Liaison to Leadership Capital Region and the Young Professionals Network. In this capacity, she has demonstrated exceptional event management and programming skills. Sami has been instrumental in assembling dynamic committee members and volunteers to drive these meaningful initiatives. In partnership with the Center for Economic Growth, Sami delivers leadership training on DiSC and Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team. Prior to her role at the Chamber, Sami dedicated sixteen years, in management, learning and development, to a renowned Fortune 500 company.
Sami’s educational foundation is from The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a specialization in Musical Theatre. This formative experience honed her creative and communicative abilities, setting the stage for her future success.
For over a decade, Sami has shared her passion for yoga as a 500 HR certified yoga instructor, with a focus on prenatal and children’s classes. Sami is a proud wife and mother of three daughters. She can most often be found outside of work at any of our local ice rinks, all her girls play hockey or figure skate, which feels like a full-time job! Outside of the rink Sami and her family love to bake pizza from, create art, hike, and spend time in Maine.

2025 UAlbany Tech Roadshow
2025-07-16 09:00 - 11:00 | Center for Economic Growth, 5 Computer Drive South, Albany, NY, 12205, United States
2025 UAlbany Tech Roadshow
Showcasing Energy and Utilities Technology Available to Capital Region Companies and Organizations

July 16 | 9am – 11am
Center for Economic Growth | 5 Computer Drive South, Albany, NY 12205
Please join CEG and the UAlbany Office of Economic Development, Entrepreneurship, and Industry Partnerships (OEDEIP), as OEDEIP kicks off its yearlong effort to bring technology out of the labs and incubator and into the community for partnerships with Capital Region companies.
Researchers and startup founders are heading into the Capital Region to showcase their technology (detailed below) and discuss how the private and public sector can use, test, and/or license the technology. The technologies could have a wide range of use cases, including in the following industries:

Commercial Real Estate
Industrial/Manufacturing
Education
Healthcare
Local Government
Hospitality/Retail
Utilities
Chemicals
Pharmaceuticals/Biotech
Semiconductors/Electronics
Industrial Wastewater Treatment
Food and Beverage Processing
Pulp and Paper Mills
Environmental Remediation and Engineering
Network Equipment Manufacturers
Defense and Aerospace

Presenters
1. ZEOS
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform designed to facilitate how buildings and facilities manage energy consumption
ReWire Group’s Zero Energy Operating System (ZEOS) is a comprehensive Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform designed to facilitate how buildings and facilities manage energy consumption, comply with regulations, and integrate with the electrical grid. Operating in a rapidly expanding market, ZEOS positions itself as a “virtual energy manager” for property owners and facility managers who lack dedicated energy expertise.
2. TR-CO?
Scalable TR-CO? Heat Pump Systems for Electrified Multifamily Building Retrofits
This project aims to advance and validate a modular, transcritical CO? (TR-CO?) Tri-Service heat pump that delivers space heating, cooling, and domestic hot water using a single high-efficiency system with ultra-low global warming potential. The solution aligns with NYSERDA’s clean energy goals by offering a scalable, all-electric alternative to fossil-fuel HVAC systems, particularly suited for multifamily buildings and other urban retrofit applications.
3. Adsorption-Regeneration Water Treatment Reactor (ARTWR)
A reactor design that performs stripping of target compounds while simultaneously regenerating the adsorbent
Recent water treatment needs focus on low-level chemical contaminants and removing them often requires the use of an adsorbent that must be either discarded or regenerated. A reactor design has been developed that performs stripping of target compounds while simultaneously regenerating the adsorbent. The process uses four different disciplines including: Adsorption (sorption)-stripping target compounds from the water; Compound destruction-regeneration of the adsorbent and prevent it from becoming a pollutant again.
4. CHRONOS
Cloud based Hybrid RF-Optical Network Over Synchronous links
The primary goal of CHRONOS is to design, build and maintain a multi-node, heterogeneous, wideband, scalable and synchronous C-RAN that will enable emerging applications like Virtual Reality (VR), Industrial Internet of Things (I-IoT), 3D broadcast video, telesurgery, etc. The research team works is searching for networking solution companies and companies interested in green and safe wireless technologies to develop LiFi systems, a promising technology for indoor wireless connectivity and localization. Compared to RF, light is unlicensed, safer and more secure against unauthorized access and jamming.

Knowledge @ Noon: Unlock the Power of Modern ERP
2025-09-09 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Is your business running on disconnected systems, manual processes, or outdated tools? Modern ERP platforms are transforming the way organizations manage finance, operations, supply chain, and sales—bringing everything together in one intelligent system.
Join us for an engaging Knowledge @ Noon virtual session, featuring Tim Blake, CEO of BBB Techs.
In this interactive virtual session, you’ll:

Learn how ERP drives agility, efficiency, and smarter decision-making
Explore real-world use cases that show ERP in action
See how AI and automation are shaping the future of ERP
Understand the tangible benefits of modernizing your business systems

Plus, get a live look at Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central in action—helping businesses:

Gain real-time insights
Streamline workflows
Scale with confidence

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how the right ERP can become the backbone of your organization’s growth

Startup Tech Valley Happy Hour
2025-09-23 17:00 - 19:00 | Ilium Brewing Co, 410 Fulton Street, Troy, NY, 12180
Tuesday, September 23 | 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Illium Brewing Co. | 410 Fulton Street, Troy, NY
Startup Tech Valley is a meetup for the entrepreneurship community in the Capital Region. Attendees include entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, mentors, students, employees of startups, service providers to startups, and anyone else who wants to be involved or is curious.
What to Expect:
Join us for a Startup Tech Valley Happy Hour to connect with the Capital Region entrepreneurship community.Whether you’re an entrepreneur or just someone with a passion for innovation, this is the perfect chance to:

Unwind with refreshing beverages and delicious bites
Network with like-minded professionals and potential collaborators
Engage with the Startup Tech Valley community

Register to attend

Bots & Brews: Manufacturer's Only Mixer
2025-10-15 17:00 - 19:00 | The Parting Glass, 40-42 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866
October is Manufacturing Month, and what better way to celebrate than connecting with your peers over a cold brew?
Join us at The Parting Glass for a manufacturer only Bots & Brews on Wednesday, October 15 from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
This is your chance to talk shop, share ideas, and build connections with fellow manufacturers of all sizes and specialties.
RW Earl Automation Solutions will be showcasing an automated welding demo using SmoothTool and Universal Robots.
SmoothTool is the ultimate welding automation solution, designed to streamline tasks and boost efficiency. Developed for Universal Robots, it simplifies complex welding processes, allowing you to focus on delivering precise, high-quality welds. Its seamless integration empowers welders with advanced features, making the welding experience intuitive and hassle-free.
Enjoy a free drink ticket, cash bar and light apps, all while networking with industry peers.
*** This event is open to Manufacturers and program sponsors ONLY. During registration, you will be required to confirm your status as a Manufacturer. ***
Register to attend

UAlbany R&E Week - Day 2: BioInnovation Forum 2025: Frontiers of Biotechnology
2025-10-28 08:00 - 17:00 | ETEC Building – University at Albany, SUNY, 1220 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12206, United States
Join CEG for Day 2 of University at Albany’s Research & Entrepreneurship Week!
BioInnovation Forum 2025: Frontiers of Biology

8:30 to 9:00 a.m. — Registration & Networking Breakfast
9:00 to 9:15 a.m. — Welcome and Opening Remarks
9:15 to 10:45 a.m. — Keynote Talks: Frontiers in Biotechnology
Highlighted Topics:
Biologics
Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine
Industrial Biotechnology
10:45 to 11:00 a.m. — Coffee Break
11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. — Advanced Manufacturing & Futures Panel
Highlighted Topics:
Institute Spotlights
Panel Discussion
12:15 to 1:15 p.m. — Networking Lunch
1:15 to 2:15 p.m. – Poster Session and Startup Valley
Calls for Poster Presentations
The BioInnovation Forum invites postdoctoral scholars and early-career faculty and researchers to showcase their work in biotechnology, life sciences, and related fields. Please note that the deadline for new submissions is 10/17/2025.
Call for Startups – Startup Valley
The BioInnovation Forum invites emerging and small biotech companies to participate in Startup Valley.
2:15 to 3:30 p.m. – Industry Perspectives: Capital Region & Beyond
3:30 to 3:45 p.m. – Coffee Break
3:45 to 4:45 p.m. – Academic & Non-Profit Perspectives
5:00 p.m. — Closing Remarks

Details & Registration
