SEEC Celebrates Economic Development Week with County-Wide Engagement
SUNY Institute for Rural Vitality, Advanced Institute for Manufacturing, Schoharie County Economic & Ag Development & MIDTEL were able to shine a light on progress
Schoharie County, NY (May 19, 2025) - The Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation (SEEC) extends its sincere appreciation to its Alliance and participants who made this year’s Economic Development Week a resounding success. Recordings are now available to learn from the manufacturing resources discussion with Advanced Institute for Manufacturing (AIM) and SUNY Institute for Rural Vitality (IRV), hear status of the last mile broadband build with County Economic Development and guests from MIDTEL and FARR Technologies, in addition to, the state of Schoharie County Agriculture at www.seecny.org. Look for the YouTube logo to visit the SEEC YouTube Channel.
Hosted annually by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), Economic Development Week celebrates the work of economic development professionals and highlights the impact of strategic growth, innovation, and collaboration toward building stronger, more resilient communities.
Throughout the week, organizations and leaders across Schoharie County hosted a variety of free, engaging events that spotlighted local collaborations, tourism, digital transformation, infrastructure development, and rural entrepreneurship.
Economic Development Week 2025 highlights included:
Monday, May 12 – Industry Feature: Lunch & Learn with SUNY IRV and AIM
SEEC welcomed Dr. Scott Ferguson and Mary Cool from the SUNY Cobleskill IRV alongside Cory Albrecht from the AIM to discuss manufacturing support services and funding opportunities available to local businesses.
Tuesday, May 13 – Annual Tourism Brochure Exchange
Tourism professionals from Schoharie and Otsego Counties gathered at Red Fox Stables to exchange brochures and share details about upcoming regional events.
Wednesday, May 14 – SEEC Digital Power Hour: SEO Basics
SEEC hosted the second session in its 2025 Digital Power Hour series. Chris Coughlan of BLK DOG Designs presented the fundamentals of Search Engine Optimization (SEO), including keyword strategies, on-page techniques, and tips for improving web visibility.
Wednesday, May 14- Broadband Chat: Will Your Home or Business Be Served with High-Speed?
John Crescimanno, Schoharie County’s Economic Development Coordinator, introduced the county’s transformative $30 million Municipal Infrastructure Program (MIP) broadband grant aimed at reaching unserved areas. Jason Becker from MIDTEL and Peter Rasmusson from FARR Technologies followed with a deep dive into the technical logistics of the buildout. This broadband expansion is funded by New York State through the ConnectALL program.
Thursday, May 15 – Industry Feature: State of the County – Agriculture Update
Caroline Myran, Schoharie County Agricultural Development Specialist, presented the latest data and developments in local agriculture, including plans for a new farmers market.
Friday, May 16 – Main Street Feature: Sharon Springs Walkabout
SEEC joined architect David Knoop on a walking tour of Sharon Springs to highlight revitalization opportunities supported by the NY Forward Program and the Small Project Fund.
For more information, visit seecny.org or email marketing@seecny.org
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About Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp.
Established by the private sector, Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation, commonly known as “SEEC,” was organized as a not-for-profit to strengthen Schoharie County by fostering economic growth. SEEC serves as a liaison to local municipalities and institutional leaders with the common goal of highlighting distinctive points of light within the community, cultivating entrepreneurial endeavors and enhancing the ability of local businesses to add value to their enterprises. SEEC is guided by social, environmental and financial principles that will accelerate growth and help provide sustainability through a collaborative and thriving business community.
About the SUNY Cobleskill Institute for Rural Vitality
The SUNY Cobleskill Institute for Rural Vitality (IRV) drives regional economic growth by connecting campus resources with community needs. Through partnerships, applied learning, and targeted initiatives, IRV supports small business development, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and rural innovation to strengthen and sustain communities across upstate New York.
About the Advanced Institute for Manufacturing (AIM)
The Advanced Institute for Manufacturing (AIM), part of Mohawk Valley Community College, is a NYS-designated Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center. AIM provides comprehensive support to small and mid-sized manufacturers through workforce training, technology acceleration, cybersecurity guidance, and operational efficiency consulting—empowering companies to grow, innovate, and compete in today’s economy.
About MIDTEL
Founded in 1897, MIDTEL is a locally owned and operated telecommunications company serving Schoharie County and surrounding areas. Committed to connecting rural communities, MIDTEL provides high-speed internet, phone, and digital television services with a focus on reliability, innovation, and personalized customer support. Through ongoing investments in broadband infrastructure, MIDTEL continues to expand access to essential connectivity across Upstate New York.
About BLK DOG Designs
BLK DOG Designs is a creative digital agency specializing in web design, branding, and digital marketing solutions. Based in Upstate New York, the team helps small businesses and organizations build strong online presences through user-focused design, SEO strategy, and innovative digital tools. With a collaborative approach and a commitment to local impact, BLK DOG empowers clients to grow and thrive in the digital landscape.
PRESS CONTACT:
Emily Smith, Marketing Coordinator Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp (SEEC) Email: marketing@seecny.org Phone: 518-517-1700