Center for Economic Growth

Knowledge @ Noon - Effective Onboarding by M3
2023-06-13 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | New York
Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series 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 insights and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organizations learn and grow.
In this Knowledge @ Noon monthly series the *Manufacturing Innovation Network will explore the significance of effective onboarding, a critical process for organizations that helps to increase employee engagement, reduce turnover rates, and improve productivity by providing structured support and training for new hires.
Statistics on the importance of onboarding:

According to a survey conducted by Careerbuilder and Silkroad Technology (nine percent,) or 1 in 10 have left a company because of a poor onboarding experience, and 37% percent of employees said their manager did not play a critical role in their onboarding experience support.
Without proper onboarding procedures increases in employee turnover and loss of productivity occur. This decreased employee engagement costs companies large sums of money every year.
When a company has great onboarding 69% of employees are likely to stay for at least 3 years.

SHRM (the Society for Human Resource Management):

69 percent of employees are more likely to stay with a company for three years if they experienced great onboarding.
New employees who went through a structured onboarding program were 58 percent more likely to be with the organization after three years.
Organizations with a standard onboarding process experience 50 percent greater new-hire productivity.

Speakers:
Mary Malone McCarthy is founder and CEO of M3 Placement & Partnership, a national executive search, talent acquisition, and strategic HR firm. As CEO she has led the organization to significant growth through the team’s focus on building strong partnerships with a shared services approach and a passion for exceptional service. Prior to founding M3, Mary Malone spent over 15 years as Senior Vice President at Northland Communications, responsible for the oversight of Human Resources, Marketing and Client Relations for the organization. See Mary Malone’s Bio here>>
Donna Hughes, JD, is the Founder and CEO of Hughes Solutions, LLC, an executive coaching and human resources consulting business. Donna launched her business to enable senior and emerging leaders to excel in their leadership capabilities, and to support diversity in the C-suite, where women and people of color remain underrepresented. Donna is a sought-after speaker for institutions of higher education, national organizations, and has been a guest podcast speaker on various topics including, embracing change, the value of leadership coaching, conscious leadership, diversity, equity and inclusion, culture transformation, and leading organizations through the Covid-19 pandemic and social unrest. See Donna’s bio here>>
Following each segment there will be an opportunity for Q&A.
*The Manufacturing Innovation Network, powered by the Center for Economic Growth (CEG), serves as a forum for Capital Region manufacturers to Learn, Share, and Grow. This Network brings together Capital Region manufacturers to learn from experts on industry relevant topics, participate in thematic roundtables, discuss common issues, and expand their network.
Register Here

Bots & Brews: Manufacturers Networking Event
2023-06-22 15:00 - 18:00 | Nine Pin Ciderworks, 929 Broadway, Albany, NY, 12207
Join the Manufacturing Innovation Network, featuring Ralph W. Earl, for Bots & Brews on Thursday, June 22 from 3 – 6 pm at Nine Pin Cider in Albany, NY.
Come see how cobots are putting the power of automation in manufacturers’ hands.
You’ll get to experience the UR20 cutting-edge features firsthand. Test its programming, feel its new footprint, and witness its enhanced speed and capabilities. Don’t miss out – see the UR20 in person now!

hold the teach pendant
explore the new software
test its enhanced speed
witness its expanded capabilities

Don’t miss out on this chance to immerse yourself in the future of robotics.
Thank you to our Sponsors:
Beverage Sponsor Garnet River
Food Sponsor: R.W. Earl

FREE DRINK: One ticket purchase is good for one beer, cider or non-alcoholic drink per person!
Manufacturers! Register Today!

Knowledge @ Noon: Sustainability Basics to Build Your Business & Reduce Your Footprint
2023-07-11 12:00 - 13:00 | New York
Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series 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 insights and provide valuable knowledge and tools to help your organizations learn and grow.
In this Knowledge @ Noon monthly series the Manufacturing Innovation Network provides a great opportunity to learn why a sustainability vision is important, how to get started and resources to assist with the journey. Hear from the experts at the Pollution Prevention Institute and how a local manufacturer, ClearView Packaging, is making the transition.
Speakers:
Kim Bawden is the Technology Commercialization Program Manager and is a Senior Staff Engineer at the NYS Pollution Prevention Institute at RIT, where her primary role is to provide technical assistance to industry. Ms. Bawden supports manufacturers throughout the supply chain by assessing manufacturing processes for improvement opportunities, performing material and energy balances for baseline metric quantification, researching and identifying environmentally preferable and cost-effective alternatives, and by assisting companies in meeting sustainability certifications/scorecards. Prior to joining NYSP2I, Ms. Bawden worked in industry for eight years in various manufacturing engineering capacities for Harris RF Communications and Microwave Data Systems. She holds an M.S. in Sustainable Systems from RIT’s Golisano Institute for Sustainability as well as a B.S. degree in Industrial Engineering and a M.E. in Engineering Management, both from RIT. She is also a Life Cycle Assessment Certified Professional (LCACP).
Trent Romer is a sustainability expert, author, and TEDx Speaker who has spent 30 years in the plastic bag manufacturing industry before serving as a sustainability operating partner for a private equity firm. His latest book, “This Is Our Home,” is a cautionary yet inspiring tale to take personal action in the fight against the planet’s destruction. Romer has multiple certificates and degrees from prestigious universities including Yale, Harvard and University of Albany. In 2022, Romer spoke at TEDxBoston. He authored Finding Sustainability, a “gold winner” in the Non-Fiction Book Awards.

Following each segment there will be an opportunity for Q&A.
*The Manufacturing Innovation Network, powered by the Center for Economic Growth (CEG), serves as a forum for Capital Region manufacturers to Learn, Share, and Grow. This Network brings together Capital Region manufacturers to learn from experts on industry relevant topics, participate in thematic roundtables, discuss common issues, and expand their network.
Register today!

Knowledge @ Noon - Authentic Leadership
2023-09-19 12:00 - 13:00 | New York
Did you know that a staggering 58 percent of employees trust a stranger on the street more than they do their own boss? According to a Harvard Business Review survey, this alarming statistic sheds light on the pressing need for authenticity in leadership within today’s corporate landscape.
In this engaging and interactive session, we will explore Authentic Leadership and its power to transform. By providing simple and practical insights tailored for the workplace, attendees will gain valuable insights to bridge the authenticity gap and drive real change, amplify influence, enhance effectiveness, boost morale, and ultimately drive the realization of business objectives.
By the completion of this session, participants should be able to:
• Define Authentic Leadership and its implications.
• Discuss five key characteristics of Authentic Leadership.
• Recognize the importance of cultivating leaders at every level of your organization.
• Explore a framework designed to nurture leadership excellence and foster self-awareness.
By the end of this event, you’ll have some actionable tips to lead authentically, inspire trust, and pave the way for a thriving organizational culture. Don’t miss this chance to revolutionize your leadership approach and drive meaningful change within your team and company.

Meet the Presenter:
Tim Williams is on a mission to help leaders build resilient and successful organizations that adapt to a market that is continually changing. He is the CEO of the veteran owned management consultancy, The 110 Group. He has over 20 years’ experience in organizational change management and consulting to health care, higher-ed, non-profits, public safety, and businesses across the U.S. Tim guides his clients to intentionally manage change using a formal, deliberate, and comprehensive approach helping them emerge stronger and better able to respond to an ever-changing business environment.
Tim has a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry from Rhode Island College and a Master of Business Administration from the University at Albany.

Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series , offered through the *Manufacturing Innovation Network, 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!

Knowledge @ Noon - The Practical Guide to AI for Business Owners and CEOs
2023-10-10 12:00 - 13:00 | New York
This workshop aims to cut through the noise and hype of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and give business owners and executives a practical guide to leveraging AI technologies within their business. In this highly interactive workshop, we will explore ~20 different AI applications that can provide immediate value for your sales, marketing, service, operations and backoffice teams.
Meet the Presenter:
Jeff Oskin is the managing principal at Newlogiq, a Saratoga Springs, NY-based consulting firm focused exclusively on helping small-to-midsize businesses maximize their value through the deployment of artificial intelligence applications. He is the former Founder and CEO of Jolt Consulting Group, a Salesforce consultancy Jeff started, grew organically and inorganically and ultimately sold in 2022, a past Vistage Chair and the former President of a publicly traded software company. Jeff brings over thirty years of strong leadership and financial acumen to his role as a leader, coach and mentor. Jeff is an expert in helping businesses craft and implement business strategies that improve enterprise value. He has proven countless times throughout his career an ability to be a savvy executive who understands the nuances of optimizing business operations, managing change, acquiring technology and managing large-scale programs/projects. He is a certified Artificial Intelligence (AI) expert and has spent nearly his 30+ year career in the technology space. In addition to his role at Newlogiq, Jeff currently is the Chair of Sage Advisors, an Albany, NY area CEO peer advisory group, an executive coach to dozens of executives and sits on the board of the Saratoga Senior Center, a non-profit serving the senior community of the greater Saratoga Springs, NY region. Jeff earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and his MBA from Boston University. Jeff resides in upstate New York with his wife and enjoys golf, hockey and spending time with his family.

Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series , offered through the *Manufacturing Innovation Network, 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!

New York State Innovation Summit
2023-10-16 08:00 - 15:30 | Saratoga City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866
FuzeHub invites you to join us for the New York State Innovation Summit on October 16-17, 2023 at the Saratoga City Center. This multi-day is event for NYS organizations that want to showcase and discover new and emerging technologies that support innovation and drive business growth.
The event serves as an opportunity to foster collaboration; introduce industry to experts that can assist growth, strengthen our statewide innovation ecosystem and showcase promising early stage companies. Whether you’re a startup, an economic developer, or an established manufacturer, the NYS Innovation Summit is for you.
The 2023 New York State Innovation Summit will showcase companies and researchers at the forefront of emerging technologies and new advancements in production capabilities. This event celebrates New York State leadership in technology-led economic growth with experts in biotechnology, new materials, energy innovation, and artificial intelligence that will explore current technology convergence opportunities, ways to accelerate commercialization, and issues of manufacturing sustainability.
“New York State Innovation Summit to Feature Top Leaders of GlobalFoundries, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Empire State Development, NYSERDA”

Learn More & Register Here!

2023 Capital Region BioInnovation Forum
2023-10-18 08:00 - 12:00 | ETEC Building – University at Albany, SUNY, 1220 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12206, United States
JOIN US
Capital Region BioInnovation Forum 2023
Fostering Industry and Academic Partnerships
Wednesday, October 18 | 8am – 12pm
University at Albany, ETEC, 1220 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12226
The Capital Region BioInnovation Forum showcases New York’s expanding and vibrant life science hub. This event brings together industry experts, innovators, academics, and leaders who are transforming the field of Life Sciences. National Science Foundation Program Director for Industry-University Cooperative Research Centers, Crystal Leach, will serve as keynote speaker. The session will also feature panel and case study presentations centered around early ideation, the development stage and partnering locally and regionally to achieve success. Win Thurlow, Executive Director of LifeSciencesNY, formerly MedTech, will serve as moderator.

Learn more & Register here

Mastering Sustainable Growth: A 360° Approach to Effective Sales & Marketing Processes Workshop
2023-10-31 08:00 - 11:00 | Capital Region Chamber / CEG, 5 Computer Drive South, Albany, NY, 12205, United States
Mastering Sustainable Growth: A 360° Approach to Effective Sales & Marketing Processes WorkshopPresented by: The Manufacturing Network Powered by CEG, Sandler – Albany & SIX Marketing
Is the slower growth of your manufacturing company causing frustration as it falls short of projected expectations?
Join us on October 31st, from 8 – 11 AM at CEG/Capital Region Chamber Office, 5 Computer Drive South Albany, NY 12205, for insights on aligning sales and marketing strategies to foster sustainable growth within your organization.

Discover how your company can:

shorten sales cycles,
proactively prospect,
implement effective sales processes, and
start developing a sales team culture that produces real results.

Topics to be discussed include:
An intro to the Manufacturing Innovation Network powered by CEG and how it can help your organization become more competitive and successful

Identifying your Highest Value Customers
How to Attract Them
How to Build-First Touch Credibility – what to say once they are engaged
How to Properly Qualify & Close Prospects & Ultimately Shorten the Sales Cycle

Don’t miss out on this chance to learn how to effectively grow your business from manufacturing sales and marketing experts.

Q&A questions may be submitted in advance of the event during registration checkout!
EARLY BIRD PRICING – $99.00 – Ends Friday October 20th at midnight.
General Admission -$149.00 – Starting Saturday October 21st.
Includes continental breakfast

REGISTER HERE!

Meet the Presenters:
Donald J. Wiesenforth M.B.A., Senior Vice President, Center for Economic Growth, Director of the MEP
Don is a seasoned leader with over twenty-six years of diverse professional experience including as owner and president of a local manufacturing company, founder and partner of an exhibition management company, leading a lean transformation in healthcare, as well as a strategic business advisor to manufacturing and technology companies.
Throughout his career, Don has been successful using the servant leader mindset to drive staff engagement, operations excellence, and change management. Don is a certified TWI (Training within Industry) Job Instruction, Job Relations and Job Method Improvement Instructor, a certified Innovation Engineering blackbelt through the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and a highly experienced lean leader/practitioner. Don holds a Master of Business Administration from the State University of New York at Albany and a Bachelor of Science from Bentley College with a major in Marketing Management.

Matt Scarchilli, Owner, Sandler Training Albany, NY
Matt worked as a staff pharmacist for Latham Pharmacy (5 yrs) and Supervising Pharmacist with Community Health Plan in Troy (5 yrs) before transitioning to pharmaceutical sales (10 yrs). In 2004, Matt was president of Latham Circle Soccer Club where he and John Haller met and together, they founded SportsSignup. SportsSignup was a SaaS business that automated the tasks in running a youth sports organization (online registration, scheduling, stats, standings, etc.). While at SportsSignup, the company made 3 acquisitions. Matt’s role was Managing Partner and Vice President of Sales. After building the business to national success with 40+ employees and managing a team of 15 in the sales department, SportsSignup was acquired by Time, Inc. in July of 2015. The company was run as Sports Illustrated Play while owned by Time Inc. The SportsSignup software is now owned and run by NBC Sports.
Having 25 years of sales experience, Matt started Winning Process, LLC and acquired Sandler (sales,management and customer service training and consulting) in 2016. He can be contacted at Matt.Scarchilli@sandler.com

Christopher Ryan, CEO & Supreme Commander, SIX Marketing
Christopher Ryan, the CEO & Supreme Commander of SIX Marketing, is a serial entrepreneur with a remarkable journey that began at the age of 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’s 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 grown into 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
Leah Parillo brings a wealth of experience from her diverse marketing roles. Currently, she holds the position of 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 Consulting Services/Account Management.
In November 2009, Leah founded Parillo Prime Marketing, with a focus on SaaS, finance, and technology, and served as its Founder until July 2015. Prior to this, she worked at McMURRY/TMG, LLC, where she held the position of Senior Account Manager/Strategic Marketing Consultant. Her responsibilities included developing new product lines and mentoring the account management team.
Leah’s earlier career included the role of Marketing Director at RainMaker Software, where she played a key 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.

REGISTER HERE!

Knowledge @ Noon: Manage Change with Success and Deliver Extraordinary Results
2023-11-14 12:00 - 13:00 | New York
The world of business is changing at a faster pace than ever, yet most people don’t like or even resist change.
How do we manage these circumstances and help our teams not only accept change, but embrace it?
This webinar will share a key ideas and concepts to consider, manage and deliver change more successfully, with individuals, teams, and the entire organization. Webinar content will be enriched with easy-to-use tools that can be applied immediately to your business.
About Your Facilitator
Bruce W. Parsons – Principal Consultant
For over 40 years, Bruce Parsons has followed his passion for helping people and organizations achieve extraordinary performance and deliver breakthrough results. He currently serves as a Principal Consultant with Mahoney Performance Institute and is responsible to plan and deliver strategic planning and execution engagements, lead MPI training events, deliver business consulting services, coach and mentor business leaders, develop new business and manage client accounts.
Prior to joining MPI, Bruce served as Vice President with Blue Slate Solutions and EXL Service where his efforts were focused on planning and delivering innovative transformational change with Medicare Administration Contractors leading to substantial increases in operational effectiveness and efficiencies. He also led his own business, Parsons Associates, delivering strategic planning, organizational and leadership development, business consulting, performance management and coaching services to small and mid-sized businesses in the greater Glens Falls and Saratoga regions.
Bruce’s distinguished career also includes six years in operations excellence, program management and supply chain management with Boston Scientific/Navilyst Medical in Glens Falls, NY; three years in Project Management with GE Power Systems in Schenectady, NY where he earned his Green Belt Six Sigma Certification; and 15 years serving in construction and project management, sales, marketing and business leadership roles with Andritz Ahlstrom in Glens Falls, NY.

Knowledge @ Noon is a monthly webinar series , offered through the *Manufacturing Innovation Network, 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

Knowledge @ Noon: Manufacturing Momentum: Grant Opportunities for Growth
2024-02-13 12:00 - 13:00 | New York
Capital Region manufacturers have access to a range of grants supporting areas such as Operational Excellence, Supply Chain Optimization, Industry 4.0 activities, Cyber Security, Advanced Materials, and more. Learn how the Center for Economic Growth (CEG) can assist in maximizing your company’s top line and bottom line growth.
Our Presenters:
Don Wiesenforth, Senior Vice President, Business Growth Solutions and Center Director for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), 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.
Carlos Flores, Vice President, Business Development – Business Growth Solutions began his career at General Electric, advancing from customer service to roles in sales and management. With a background in leadership at GE and Davis-Standard LLC, he joined Cyanco International as VP of Latam & VP of Sales & Marketing, leading growth initiatives. Carlos holds a Diploma in Executive Top Management from IPADE Business School, a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Skidmore College, Six Sigma certifications, and has completed diverse leadership and technical seminars.
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.

Unlocking Talent: Workforce Solutions & Apprenticeship Opportunities
2024-04-09 12:00 - 13:00 | New York
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:

Knowledge @ Noon: Pathways to Employment: Reintegrating Historically Underrepresented Populations Through The Roadmap To Success
2024-09-10 12:00 - 13:00 | New York
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.

2024 BioInnovation Forum
2024-10-17 08:00 - 14:00 | Hudson Valley Community College, 80 Vandenburgh Ave, Troy, NY, 12180
Join us for an exciting day filled with innovative discussions and networking opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the field, this event is perfect for anyone interested in biotechnology and life sciences. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with industry leaders, learn about the latest trends, and gain insights on skilling and workforce. Register now and be part of the future of bioinnovation in the Capital Region.
The 2024 BioInnovation Forum will be held on October 17th at Hudson Valley Community College. Our Master of Ceremonies will be Win Thurlow, Executive Director of LifeSciencesNY, and the day will have a special focus on workforce development.

This year’s keynote will be given by John Balchunas, Workforce Director at The National Institute for Innovation and Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL). There will be two panels, a B2B showcase featuring regional pharmaceutical and biomedical/biotech companies, and plenty of networking opportunities.

We hope to see you on October 17th! Register today at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bioinnovation-forum-2024-tickets-1004760013247.
Students can register for free using this form: https://albany.jotform.com/242326072441044. We encourage you to pass this invitation along to students.

Knowledge @ Noon: Maximizing Lead Generation: Aligning Sales, Marketing, and Technology for Manufacturers
2024-11-12 12:00 - 13:00 | New York
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 | New York
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 January Happy Hour
2025-01-22 17:00 - 20:00 | Lucas Confectionary, 12 2nd Street, Troy, 12180
Join us for a Startup Tech Valley Happy Hour to reconnect with the entrepreneurship community or make new connections.
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 Here

Knowledge @ Noon: Data-Driven Manufacturing: Leveraging Dashboards and AI for Improved Production
2025-03-11 12:00 - 13:00 | New York
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 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

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

Startup Tech Valley
2025-11-20 17:00 - 20:00 | The Innovation Center at Saratoga, 16 Old Stonebreak Road, Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Thursday, November 20 | 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The Innovation Center at Saratoga | 16 Old Stonebreak Road Ballston Spa, NY 12020

Startup Tech Valley is a networking and pitch event 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.
This month, we’re partnering with Innovation Center Saratoga to host presentations in their space. The Innovation Center at Saratoga, Inc. is a makerspace where artists, entrepreneurs, and community members come together to learn, create, and innovate.
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
5:00pm Networking | 6:00pm Pitches | 7:00pm More Networking

If you’re interested in pitching, you can apply here.
If you’re interested in sponsoring, you can reach out here.

Register to attend

Get Venture Ready: From Idea to Investment
2025-12-02 17:30 - 19:30 | Launchbox, 6 Northway Lane, Latham, NY, 12110, United States
Tuesday, December 2 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Launchbox Flexible Warehouse Suites | Latham, NY

REGISTER TO ATTEND

From lab discovery to fundable startup – learn what it really takes.
Join founders, funders, and ecosystem leaders for a practical look at how academic research becomes a “venture-ready” startup. We’ll walk through the path from idea to company, hear candid lessons from founders who’ve spun out of universities, and highlight the Capital Region and broader NY resources that can help you take the next step.

What is this event?
This session is designed for researchers, students, and university innovators who are serious about turning ideas into companies. We’ll break down what “venture ready” actually means, share real founder stories, and introduce you to the people and programs that can help you move faster.
You’ll hear from:

Former Founders who have spun out of universities, secured funding, and built companies.
Regional Innovation Ecosystem Leaders who run programs like the Venture Readiness Program and NSF I-Corps.
Capital Region Resources that provide funding, facilities, and hands-on guidance across New York State.

You’ll leave with:

A clearer picture of the steps to go from research project to startup to “venture ready”
Concrete examples of how other university founders navigated funding and partnerships
A sense of who does what in the Capital Region innovation ecosystem

Who this is for:

Faculty and researchers curious about commercialization
Graduate students and postdocs considering a startup path
Tech transfer and commercialization office staff
Early-stage founders with university ties
Investors, mentors, and ecosystem partners who support research-based ventures
Whether you just have an idea or are already prototyping and talking to customers, you’ll get value from hearing how others have moved from concept to successful company.

Agenda:
5:30–6:00 PM – Networking & LaunchBox Tours
Arrive, grab a drink, meet other founders and researchers, and take a guided tour of the LaunchBox facilities.
6:00–6:15 PM – Welcome & Purpose
CEG, LaunchBox, and Emerging Innovations Consulting set the stage: why this event exists, how to walk the path from academic research to company formation, and what “venture ready” looks like for the region.
6:15–6:35 PM – Founder Spotlight & Lessons Learned
Founders from university spin-out companies will share their journey and dive deep into their lessons learned.
6:35–7:05 PM – Resource Showcase
Reverse-pitches from the resources and programs in the Capital Region that can actually help you
7:05 PM – Networking & Additional LaunchBox Tours
Additional networking with founders, resource partners, and investors. We’ll have follow-up conversations, intros, and additional facility tours.

About your hosts:
Center for Economic Growth (CEG)
The Center for Economic Growth is the regional business and economic development organization for New York’s Capital Region. Through programs like the Venture Readiness Program, CEG supports early-stage startups, connects founders to mentors and investors, and strengthens the area’s innovation ecosystem.
To learn more and apply to the Venture Readiness Program, visit CEG’s website: https://www.ceg.org/venture-readiness-program/

Emerging Innovations Consulting (EIC)
Emerging Innovations Consulting helps academic researchers and early-stage biotech teams translate science into sustainable startups. Led by Dr. Scott Alpizar, EIC provides commercialization strategy, fundraising support, and mentoring for founders navigating the path from lab to market.
Interested in learning more? Check out EIC’s website: https://www.emerginginnovationsconsulting.com/

LaunchBox
LaunchBox is an innovation hub and startup accelerator space in Latham, NY, designed to connect entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry partners. It provides facilities, programming, and community resources that help founders turn great ideas into scalable ventures.
To learn more about the LaunchBox, visit https://launchbox.co/

REGISTER TO ATTEND
