Micro Training Series in Business Essentials

AEDC is hosting a micro-credential training series aimed at existing or future entrepreneurs. We are inviting the next generation of the entrepreneurial workforce to learn crucial real world skills and problem-solving abilities in launching their business.

The training series is in collaboration with the Clinton Community College Institute of Advanced Manufacturing, SUNY Plattsburgh and and the Strategic Executive Alliance. Sponosred by AmeriCU Credit Union.

This training will provide key components and resources in small business revenue management, QuickBooks and bookkeeping skills, as well as marketing and networking. Each training course will be led by one of the expert executives specializing in that field from the cohort at the Strategic Executive Alliance. Upon completion of the Micro training series, participants will receive a “Business Essentials Certificate”. Participants are welcome to attend the trainings in part as well, rather than the full series.

Participants will also have the opportunity for one-on-one consultations and networking with the executives on the day of trainings and connected for no cost future skills-building. AEDC is excited to partner with both SUNY Plattsburgh and the Clinton Community College IAM to offer this programming to both colleges and the community at large. We are grateful for the generous sponsorship by AmeriCU Credit Union who are underwriting the event, including lunch and no registration cost.

The training series will be held January 30th, February 6th, and February 13th, 2026.

To register please contact

svicencio-labarre@adirondackedc.org or see link below.

Pictured: Micro Training Series flyer.

Schroon Lake Department Store Supports CDFIs

AEDC was delighted to have a strong mention in recent publicity (including Adirondack Daily Enterprise 11/14/25) from our friends and rock-star entrepreneurs Amanda and Ryan Ragland at the Schroon Lake Department Store. The Raglands told their story of their complete renovation and relaunch of this historic, downtown Schroon Lake gem, and AEDC’s role in this work. Their intention was to highlight the importance of “CDFIs” (Community Development Financial Institutions) like AEDC at a time when federal actions have placed the program in real jeopardy. 

Amanda and Ryan commented that their launch reached a major roadblock, and “that’s where the Adirondack Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) came in. Their $100,000 loan bridged a crucial financing gap and, just as importantly, they believed in our vision. AEDC and the Lake George/Lake Champlain Regional Planning Board worked together to craft a creative funding package that allowed us to purchase the store and allowed us to see our vision through.”

Thanks to the Raglands for their important community presence and kind words!  

Pictured: Schroon Lake Department Store image.

Adk Barber to Open in Downtown Saranac Lake

AEDC was pleased to work with Anthony Anastasia of ADK Barber to receive a loan from the Village of Saranac Lake to move his home-based business to a downtown storefront. AEDC administers the Village’s Revolving Loan Fund and worked to build and forward this application for village commitment.

We are happy for the important service Anthony will be bringing to our downtown community and congratulate him on this expansion!  

Pictured: Saranac Lake, NY logo.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York "An Economy that Works For All" Conference

Victoria attended the Federal Reserve Bank of NY’s recent “An Economy that Works for All- Financial Inclusion” event in New York City.

The event featured bank and external thought leaders presenting ideas and updates on how financial technology, products and training are making our economy more inclusive.

This work is key to AEDC’s service as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and many connections were made.

Pictured: Victoria Duley at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, New York City.

AEDC and Adirondack Bank Partnership

Director of Lending Jamie Cecilia and Executive Director Victoria Duley recently met with partners at Adirondack Bank to update on their mutual work. Adirondack Bank is the first financial institution to provide capital to AEDC’s Adirondack Opportunity Fund (AOF).

The AOF leverages state and federal funds (at a 1:5) match to provide flexible capital to meet community and business needs through small business loans, non-profit bridge loans for community projects and other community facilities such as childcare. We greatly value our friends and partners at Adirondack Bank!

Pictured: Doug Bartell, Adirondack Bank and Jamie Cecilia, AEDC.

AEDC Board Meeting and Holiday Gathering

Our team and Board of Directors gathered in Saranac Lake in December for our quarterly meeting followed by a festive seasonal gathering at the Hotel Saranac.

We were happy to have close partners join us to celebrate the great work accomplished in serving our mission of growing communities by helping new and existing small businesses. Thank you to all of our team, Board and partners for a wonderful year and to Josh and his team at Hotel Saranac for delicious eats and treats in their beautiful Grand Hall.

Pictured: Hotel Saranac.

Adirondack Association of Towns and Villages (AATV) Winter Meeting

AEDC enjoyed the great programming and networking enjoyed at the AATV winter meeting in Lake George.

Featured speakers included New York Secretary of State Mosley and Department of State Commissioner Lefton and many other state and local leaders. Thank you to the AATV team who provided a great event! 

Pictured: Secretary of State Mosely and Commissioner Lefton at AATV, Lake George.

New York State Economic Development Council Policy and Leadership Forum

Executive Director Victoria Duley attended the New York State Economic Development Council’s first-ever “Policy and Leadership Forum” in November in Verona. This packed-house event featured many speakers and experts educating our economic development professionals in best and current practices to growing our communities and development. Molly Ryan, Clinton County IDA Director and AEDC board member highlighted IDA best practices at one of the sessions. Thank you to Molly and team at NYSEDC for a great inaugural event!

Pictured: Molly Ryan, Clinton County IDA and AEDC Board, Victoria Dulery, AEDC in Vernona, NY at the NYSEDC Policyt and Leadership Forum.