St. Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency

08/27/2026

🚀 North Country Entrepreneurs: Join Us Tonight in Potsdam!

Join us Thursday, August 27, from 6:00–8:00 PM at 161 Adirondack Trail in Potsdam for an evening of networking, insight-sharing, and problem-solving with fellow entrepreneurs.

This month’s meetup will feature a special fireside chat with Aïko Thurlow, experienced entrepreneur, business mentor, and founder of InFounders.

A longtime part of our region’s entrepreneurship community, Aïko brings a unique perspective on building businesses across the North Country and beyond. She’ll share her own entrepreneurial journey, what inspired her to build a business, and some of the most important lessons she’s learned along the way.

Whether you’re running an established business, building a startup, or exploring your next idea, come meet other entrepreneurs and make new connections.

📅 Thursday, August 27
⏰ 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 161 Adirondack Trail, Potsdam, NY

RSVP today: https://tinyurl.com/AugustPotsdamMeetup

08/24/2026

🛡️ Looking to Start a Career in Security?

SUNY Canton is offering its Pre-Assignment Security Guard Training on October 12 & 13 from 4:00–8:00 PM.

This 8-hour course provides the required introductory training for those working toward a New York State security guard license. Participants will learn essential skills and responsibilities, including situational awareness and the legal responsibilities of working as a professional security guard.

The course is taught by Al Mulkin, an experienced DCJS-approved instructor.

📅 October 12 & 13
⏰ 4:00–8:00 PM
📍 SUNY Canton
💲 Cost: $75

If you’re considering a career in security, this is a great opportunity to take that first step.

Register and learn more:
https://www.canton.edu/wcip/noncredit/security/pre/

08/20/2026

🎓 Welcome back, students!

The St. Lawrence County IDA welcomes all incoming and returning college students to the North Country this week.

A special welcome to students at SUNY Canton, SUNY Potsdam, St. Lawrence University, Clarkson University, and the SUNY ESF Ranger School!

Whether you’re just beginning your freshman year or heading into your final year, we hope you’ll make the most of your time here—and consider making St. Lawrence County your home after graduation.

Our region offers career opportunities, growing businesses and industries, welcoming communities, and a quality of life that makes the North Country a great place to live, work, and build your future.

Discover more about what St. Lawrence County has to offer at www.slcida.com.

Good luck and have a great school year! 🎓📚

08/14/2026

💻 Learn More About Resources Available to Support Growth in the North Country

Empire State Development’s North Country Regional Office “Lunch & Learn” series is designed to connect businesses, organizations, community leaders, and other stakeholders with valuable New York State resources.

These convenient virtual sessions, held via Zoom, provide stakeholders throughout the seven-county North Country region with an opportunity to learn about ESD programs, funding resources, and growth opportunities.

Each session features information on ESD programs followed by a live Q&A, giving participants the chance to ask questions and learn how available resources may support their business, organization, or community.

Stay informed, get connected, and discover opportunities available throughout the North Country.

https://regionalcouncils.ny.gov/north-country

08/11/2026

🏭 You don’t have to go back to school this September to learn more about Advanced Manufacturing!

Clarkson University is partnering with industry executives to offer an Introduction to Manufacturing Seminar Course, bringing industry knowledge and real-world expertise into the classroom—and members of the public can sign up to participate!

Whether you work in manufacturing, are interested in the industry, or simply want to learn more about the technologies and trends shaping its future, this is a great opportunity to hear directly from industry experts.

Learn more about the seminar and how to participate:
https://www.clarkson.edu/news-events/clarkson-university-partners-industry-executives-launch-introduction-manufacturing-seminar-course

08/05/2026

📢 Funding Opportunity for New York Small Businesses

The New York State Small Business Revolving Loan Fund – Round 2 provides low-interest loans of up to $250,000 for eligible small businesses and minority- and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) that may have difficulty obtaining traditional financing.

Loan funds can be used to:
• Purchase equipment or inventory
• Cover working capital expenses like payroll, rent, and utilities
• Invest in marketing and hiring
• Make facility improvements
• Support business expansion and long-term growth

Whether you're looking to grow your business or strengthen your operations, this program may provide the financial support you need.

Learn more and determine your eligibility:
https://esd.ny.gov/nys-small-business-revolving-loan-fund-round-2

Please share this opportunity with business owners who may benefit!

07/30/2026

🌟 Become part of the next generation of leaders in St. Lawrence County!

There's still time to apply for the St. Lawrence Leadership Institute (SLLI) Class of 2026–2027.

This 9-month leadership development program meets once a month from September through May and brings together professionals from across the region, including:
• Small businesses
• Public agencies
• Nonprofit organizations
• Major industries
• Elementary and secondary schools
• Colleges and universities

Whether you're looking to strengthen your leadership skills, expand your professional network, or make a greater impact in your community, SLLI offers an outstanding opportunity to grow.

📅 Application deadline: August 14
Applications will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis until the class reaches capacity.

Learn more and apply:
https://www.visitstlc.com/SLLI/

07/28/2026

07/23/2026

🌳 Your Input is Needed!

The Village of Canton is inviting residents and community members to help shape the future of the Village Green Enhancements Project, part of the NY Forward awards.

Join the Public Workshop on July 30 to review the latest design concepts and share your feedback before the plans are finalized.

Your ideas will help create a vibrant, welcoming Village Green that reflects the needs and vision of the community.

For more information, visit:
https://cantonny.gov/government/community_vision_and_plans/villagegreen.php

We hope to see you there!

07/21/2026

🎓 Thinking about going back to college? Now is the perfect time.

The SUNY Reconnect initiative provides FREE college tuition, fees, books, and supplies for eligible New Yorkers ages 22–55 who do not already have a college degree and are pursuing degrees in high-demand fields.

This initiative is designed to help adult learners earn a degree, gain valuable skills, and prepare for careers that strengthen New York's workforce.

Whether you're looking to start a new career or advance your current one, SUNY Reconnect can help make your educational goals more affordable.

Learn more and determine your eligibility: https://www.suny.edu/reconnect/

Share this opportunity with someone who could benefit!