Accomplishments

Here are just a few of the ways the Chamber has been working for the
business community over the past several months:

·         Continue to play a key role in marketing Stewart International Airport to airlines that offer low fares and popular destinations. Recent success includes Allegiant Air flying non-stop to Orlando.

·         As registered NYS lobbyists, the Chamber President and Vice President for Government Initiatives and Special Projects are working with state legislators to bring about reform of New York’s Workers’ Compensation program, as well as on other issues of concern to the business community.

·         Was significantly involved in getting health insurance legislation passed by New York State on behalf of small business owners.

·         Facilitated $640,000 in grants through the Orange County Business Development Corporation (OCBDC). OCBDC is a community partner with New York Business Development Corp.

·         Provided 29 loans totaling more than $300,000 through the Minority and Women Business Revolving Loan Fund. Also administer loans through the Mid-Hudson Revolving Loan Fund.

·         Offer a cooperative advertising program to members, providing discount advertising opportunities on radio, cable television and in print.

·         Established an annual technology event (techXpo) that focuses on helping small businesses learn more about how to use and benefit from the latest technologies.

·         Offer an interactive website, featuring easy, direct links for more than 20,000 visitors per month to member businesses. The website also includes a community calendar, personal reminders and online registration for events. 

·         Provide free technical assistance for businesses through the Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program (SATOP), which uses the engineering expertise of NASA and participating alliance partners (NASA contractors and universities).

·         Work with dozens of regional organizations and community-based agencies on programs and events that help create a better quality of life for businesses and residents throughout the region.

·         Continue to offer a variety of affordable health, dental and vision insurance programs.

·         Offer a Member Discount Program online, enabling members to offer discounts to members and non-members alike, simply by making an entry on their website listing.

·         In cooperation with the Orange County Employment and Training Administration, supervise two Job Mentors who support workforce training and development for local business.

·         Continue to present conferences, seminars and workshops that assist members in a variety of business skills including e-commerce, sales, marketing, hiring, business plans, financing and others.  

·         Publicize grand openings, member events, member news, and new and renewing members in The Business Viewpoint, published monthly and distributed to over 80,000 readers.