COBLESKILL, N.Y. — The Institute for Rural Vitality at SUNY Cobleskill is excited to announce a free three-part Small Business Workshop Series this fall, designed to help small businesses, farmers, and entrepreneurs take their ventures to the next level. Each session focuses on practical steps for growth — from building value-added products to securing funding and understanding how to form an LLC.

What to expect

The series reflects the Institute’s ongoing mission to strengthen the rural economy by connecting entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed. Through its business development programs, shared-use facilities, and technical assistance, the Institute for Rural Vitality has already helped hundreds of businesses across New York’s Mohawk Valley and beyond develop new products, improve their operations, and expand their market reach.

Workshop Schedule

The Value of Value-Added Products

Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 1–2 p.m.
 Prentice Hall, Second Floor or Virtual via Zoom
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Calling all farmers and producers! Learn how to turn what you already grow or make into new, profitable products. This one-hour workshop explores how creating value-added products can boost farm and business revenues — perfect for those curious about bringing a new food product to life but unsure where to begin.

Access to Capital

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 from 6–8 p.m.
 Prentice Hall, Second Floor.

Discover how to secure funding to grow your business. This session will cover different capital sources and grant opportunities available to small businesses, with insight into how to position your business for success when applying for financial support.

How to Create an LLC

Wednesday, December 3, 2025 from 6–7 p.m. Prentice Hall, Second Floor or Virtual via Zoom

Starting your own business? Learn the ins and outs of forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC), along with the fundamental steps of starting a small business — from registration to basic operating procedures.

“These workshops are about empowering local business owners and helping them take actionable steps toward growth,” said Institute for Rural Vitality Communications Manager Darin Clark. “Whether you’re developing your first product, applying for a loan, or formalizing your business structure, we’re here to support you.”
The Small Business Workshop Series is open to the public, and all sessions are free to attend. Participants can join in person at SUNY Cobleskill’s Prentice Hall or participate online via live webinar.

Register here https://slate.cobleskill.edu/register/?id=b8773281-e428-45fb-b265-85114b3e1386, or to learn more, contact the Institute for Rural Vitality at institute@cobleskill.edu or 518-255-5043.

Information provided by the SUNY Cobleskill Institute for Rural Vitality, October 20, 2025.