News

Norwich, NY - September 28-29, Kerri Green, President and CEO of Commerce Chenango, attended the annual New York State Economic Development Council (NYSEDC) meeting, held in Cooperstown, NY. The multiple day event included keynote speakers, breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and the NYSEDC Awards Ceremony, where Green accepted one of the “Developer of the Year” awards, given to each of the Economic Development Agencies in New York State for their dedication and support during the COVID-19 shutdown.

The Robert T. Dormer “Developer of the Year Award” is traditionally presented each year to an economic developer who has made a significant impact on their community and the economic development industry. At the 2021 Awards Ceremony, NYSEDC recognized Commerce Chenango as one of the 62 agencies being honored with this prestigious award.

“The NYSEDC was proud to honor and recognize all our members for the critical role they play supporting their communities and economy. We congratulate Commerce Chenango and thank them for their leadership in Chenango County and moving the New York State economy forward.” said NYSEDC Executive Director Ryan Silva.

Commerce Chenango shifted their focus during the COVID-19 shutdown in order to help all businesses, organizations and community members understand and cope with the changes that accompanied the shutdown, pause, and then phased reopening plans for New York State. Some notable endeavors were a series of webinars that outlined the business side of the shutdown and reopening plans, in collaboration with the Chenango County Health Department. Throughout the height of the pandemic Commerce Chenango hosted over fifteen webinars that were free and open to the public, and expanded beyond the Chenango County borders. They also assisted with mask, hand sanitizer, vaccination information, and the distribution throughout the county.

In an attempt to support businesses who needed funding to assist with reopening costs, inventory, and funds to support the physical changes now required, Commerce Chenango, through their LDC, Development Chenango Corporation, allocated $250,000 towards a COVID-19 Loan Fund. Commerce Chenango also served as an advocate and provided support services to businesses looking to apply for state and federal funding such as the SBA Disaster Relief Funds and the Payroll Protection Program (PPP).

Furthermore, Commerce Chenango served as the Chenango County representative for the Southern Tier Control Room and worked closely with the Chenango County Health Department, Emergency Services, Planning Department, and others as a liaison to the state. Agencies, businesses, and organizations regularly contacted Commerce Chenango with questions and concerns regarding the regulations, which Green advocated for and reported back to constituents.

In addition to the regular communications through the Commerce Chenango offices, another initiative emerged; the ‘Fueling the Frontline’ campaign raised over $10,000 through local donations. The funds were used to provide meals to healthcare and emergency workers throughout the county, and all purchases were made through Chenango County food service businesses.

“I am extremely proud of the work that Commerce Chenango did during the pandemic. From day one we established ourselves as an essential service and immediately began liaising with county, regional, and state partners so we could be a consistent source of information and support for our businesses and community,” noted Commerce Chenango President & CEO, Kerri Green. “Our staff worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic and we were able to quickly shift our focus to meet the needs of Chenango County. I appreciate the collaboration with our county agencies, and the trust of the community to know that we were providing accurate and timely information. It was such an honor to receive this recognition, along with my economic development peers from throughout New York State.”