$282,000 in Federal Funds Obtained for College’s Small Business Development Center

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: October 9, 2008

CONTACT: Lisa Saunders

(845) 574 - 4244

$282,000 in Federal Funds Obtained for Rockland Community College’s Small Business Development Center

Suffern, NY - Rockland Community College’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) received $282,000 in federal funds to help area small businesses face significant challenges in finding, employing and retaining qualified employees.

The $282,000 two-year grant procured by Congressman Eliot Engel has been awarded to study the skills needs of small business, develop responsive training programs and curricula, and to begin delivering the specific training needed for Rockland’s future workforce through educational institutions.

Tom Morley, Director, SBDC, said, "For example, the SUNY Rockland Automotive Technology Department has identified the need in Rockland's auto industry for hybrid repair technicians. They have begun to develop the training program necessary to train those workers in 21st Century technology."

Dr. Cliff L. Wood, President, SUNY Rockland, said, "This important grant signifies RCC's commitment to enabling the success and vitality of small businesses in our region through developing a vibrant, talented workforce."

Rep. Engel stated, "Small businesses cannot survive without skilled workers and the door swings both ways. Through important studies such as the one being conducted by the SBDC at RCC, we will see stronger employment opportunities in Rockland County and we will also see our small businesses strengthened and better able to shoulder the load for Rockland's economy."

The SBDC is a resource for Rockland County small businesses and entrepreneurs providing specific, individualized management and technical assistance. From access to capital to business plans, from market research to contracting to e-business and technology, the assistance provided to New York Small businesses is completely confidential and is provided at no charge.

For more information about RCC’s Small Business Development Center, contact Tom Morley, Director, at 845-356-6065, tmorley@sunyrockland.edu or visit: http://www.sunyrockland.edu/

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Rockland Community College, a unit of the State University of New York, is located 25 miles northwest of NYC. The majority of its students transfer to four-year colleges, and many find immediate employment upon earning their associate's degree or certificate. The College also offers others, from preschoolers to senior citizens, the opportunity to simply learn something new. Quality education...at a price you can afford.