The Chamber Hosts International Women’s Day Luncheon Keynote address offered by Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez speaks on women’s equity in the workplace. Athena International Award presented to Laura Ducceschi. Scranton, PA —The Greater Scranton of Chamber of Commerce hosted their International Women’s Day Luncheon, sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank at Marywood University. Keynote speaker Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez offered a stirring challenge to step up and lead while focusing on the international theme, Embrace Equity. The luncheon included the presentation of the ATHENA Leadership Award, sponsored by Michael A. Barbetti LLC, to Laura Ducceschi, president & CEO of The Scranton Area Community Foundation. Dr. Bonilla-Rodriguez commented, “Women’s History month is an opportunity to acknowledge the circumstances that women face in the workplace and in terms of achieving a level of economic success, educational attainment, and other opportunities to climb the leadership ladder as it relates to their livelihood.” “International Women’s Day means so much. The importance of women’s contributions all over the world, to our community right here in Scranton. In terms of the workforce, women play such a key role, and we need to be able to continue supporting women so they can overcome barriers and become what they want to be,” stated Ms. Ducceschi. The keynote speaker, Dr. Damary M. Bonilla-Rodriguez, a national leading authority on leadership development, especially as it pertains to diversity and inclusion. Dr. Bonilla-Rodriguez delivers keynote addresses from roles in the non-profit, private, and government sectors and her doctoral research. The ATHENA Leadership Award, sponsored locally by Michael A. Barbetti LLC Certified Public Accountants, honors an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals, and leadership skills. “Laura Ducceschi embodies these characteristics wholeheartedly,” shares Mr. Durkin.
Lackawanna County Offers Small Business Grant Lackawanna County will be providing a $5,000 grant to small businesses. The funds can be used to pay employees, add staff, buy new equipment, pay normal expenses, and expand businesses. The purpose of the grants will help businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible businesses must: be already operating with between two and 100 employees; have faced pandemic-related hardship; comply with all applicable federal and state laws; be current in paying federal, state, and local taxes or on a payment plan; and spend all the money in the county. No one convicted of a financial crime in the last five years is eligible. The money may also be used to pay mortgages, rent, utilities, and other operating costs. Application forms and full instructions are available online at the county’s website, www.LackawannaCounty.org. Look for the Department of Planning and Economic Development on the homepage drop-down menu. The Combat Inflation Business Grant can be found at this link.
The Chamber Launches 2023 Educator in the Workplace Program Scranton, PA—Skills in Scranton, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s workforce development affiliate organization, welcomed 26 participants to the 2023 Educator in the Workplace Program. Educator in the Workplace seeks to enhance classroom instruction, student learning, and career readiness for the workplace of today and tomorrow by connecting educators and school board directors with local business and industry leaders. The 26 educators will participate in at least five one-day virtual and in-person learning sessions. What are program participants doing? Participating in and exploring career pathways in local businesses and industriesInteracting directly with business community leaders, gaining insight into the skills students need to succeed in their future careersEstablishing connections to business and industry leaders in Lackawanna County’s leading and emerging industry sectorsLearning about local businesses and employment opportunities “Educator in the Workplace seeks to align and connect business and industry leaders with local school districts, the career and technical center, and the local intermediate unit,” said Amy Luyster, Vice President. “Program participants are provided experiences interacting directly with industry and business leaders to learn about industry trends, needs, and opportunities to enhance their classroom instruction, student learning, and career readiness. This program is partly funded by the City of Scranton American Rescue Plan (ARPA) Non-Profit Covid Relief Grant and sponsored by Pennsylvania American Water and the Scranton Area Community Foundation.
2023 ATHENA Leadership Award Recipient Announced The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Laura Ducceschi, MBA, MA, CAP, CFRE, president & CEO of The Scranton Area Community Foundation, as the 2023 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient. The ATHENA Award, sponsored locally by Michael A. Barbetti LLC Certified Public Accountants, honors an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals, and leadership skills. Laura Ducceschi embodies these characteristics wholeheartedly. For over 10 years, Ms. Ducceschi has made significant strides as a nonprofit leader to make lasting and meaningful changes in the region. Since being named president and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation, the organization has witnessed exponential growth. Under her leadership, the Foundation has established programs like NEPA Gives, The Center for Community Leadership, NEPA Moves, Women in Philanthropy, and the NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative. Ms. Ducceschi is actively involved with numerous communities. Currently, she serves on the Geisinger Advisory Board, the University of Scranton Advisory Board, NEPA Grant Makers Steering Committee, the Lackawanna County Women’s Commission, The Chamber’s Lackawanna Industrial Fund Enterprises (LIFE) Board of Trustees, and is a Board Governor for the Indraloka Animal Sanctuary. In addition, she serves as a mentor for the Kirby Center for Entrepreneurship, is a Schwartz Mack Foundation trustee, and participates with the Funder’s Network racial equity group. “Ms. Ducceschi is no doubt making positive and inspiring advances in the local nonprofit sector by implementing projects and programs that support our community,” says Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “We commend her for the work she has done so far and congratulate her as the 2023 recipient of this prestigious award.” The ATHENA Award will be presented to Ms.Ducceschi at The Chamber’s International Women’s Day Luncheon on March 8, held at Marywood University, and is sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ScrantonChamber.com. The ATHENA Award was first presented in 1982 in Lansing, Michigan, and has grown to include presentations to more than 5,000 individuals in hundreds of cities in the United States as well as in Canada, China, Russia, and the United Kingdom. The award takes the form of a hand-cast bronze sculpture symbolizing the strength, courage, and wisdom of the recipient. The ATHENA Award® Program is nationally underwritten by General Motors and National City Bank. ATTACHED PHOTO (in order of appearance starting on the left): Kristine Augustine, vice president, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Bob Durkin, president, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Laura Ducceschi, president & CEO, The Scranton Area Foundation and 2023 ATHENA Award recipient; Donna Barbetti; Mari Potis, director of membership and events, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by providing programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
National Civics Bee Invites Middle School Students to Enter Essay Topic Identify a problem facing your community. How might a citizen solve the problem? Write a 500-word essay, two pages, double-spaced, that includes the following: What is the problem, and how do different members in your community or neighborhood view it?What civic principles or systems could help to address the problem?What is your idea or recommendation for solving the problem?What primary sources, such as the Declaration of Independence or the United States Constitution, provide supporting evidence or examples for your idea or recommendation?How might members of your community or neighborhood bring your idea or recommendation to life? Judging Criteria Your essay will be evaluated based on how well you: • Demonstrate an understanding of civics.• Acknowledge and address opposing points of view.• Acknowledge and address at least one Founding Principle and one Civic Virtue.• Use primary sources, like newspapers, data, historical documents, images, or other documents that relate to your idea.• Clearly describe an idea innovative or new to you. Local Prizes First Place: $500 cash prize Second Place: $250 cash prize Third Place: $125 cash prize State Prizes First Place: $1,000 cash prize Second Place: $500 cash prize Third Place: $250 cash prize Each finalist receives a certificate. About the Bee The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. In the first round of the contest, local 6th, 7th and 8th grade students will participate in an essay competition. Judges will then select 20 finalists to participate in the local competition: a live quiz event testing civics knowledge. Then, the top 3 students from each local competition will advance to the state competition
8 Participants were Selected for TechCelerator Program Scranton, PA—Lackawanna County, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, and Ben Franklin Technology Partners recently launched a new entrepreneurial program: TechCelerator @ Lackawanna County. Following a competitive application process, eight small businesses were chosen as finalists. All eight were selected for their unique tech-based ideas, commitment to completing the program, and creating a company and jobs based in Lackawanna County. “Lackawanna County is dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship by providing the tools necessary to bring a business plan to reality,” said Brenda Sacco, Director of Economic Development. “We are proud to have funded this great initiative and look forward to seeing these businesses grow and become viable members of our community.” The first cohort session will take place on Tuesday, February 7, at TekRidge, in the Jessup Business Park. The eight participating businesses will walk away with solid networking skills and a foundational understanding of finances, marketing, business strategy, and more. After ten weeks, a graduation ceremony will take place where participants will pitch their finalized business plan. For those who successfully meet the requirements, $10,000 in reimbursable business expenses will assist them in launching their venture. “The tremendous response to the offering (29 applicants) shows that the entrepreneurial spirit is thriving in our region,” said Bob Durkin, President and CEO of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “What is more, while this pilot program was limited to a select group of technology-based participants, our Chamber IGNITE team will be working to help all the applicants further their dreams of starting a new business.” The eight businesses are Babinski Co., Gamer Realities, Mass Layer, Neuralytics, McGowan Co., Sensify, Success Fundamentals, Sylf. Future products and services range from 3D printing services, a self-serve alcohol dispenser, video game production, educational podcast, and more. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
PA Route 6: Facade Grant Program Lackawanna County businesses, nonprofits, and commercial property owners could be awarded matching funds up to $5,000 to improve storefronts and exterior upgrades. The $5,000 matching funds is a dollar-to-dollar grant for recipients. Eligible projects can include but are not limited to exterior painting, new signs, and canvas awning replacement. Commercial buildings may be located anywhere in Lackawanna County, but applicants whose properties are located on Route 6 will be given extra weight. PA Route 6 has partnered with the Lackawanna Heritage Valley National and State Heritage Area on the grant program. Public meetings are scheduled with the Route 6 Alliance to explain the program guidelines and grant procedures: February 7, 6 PM at the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce February 8, 10 AM at the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce February 8, 6 PM at the Lackawanna Heritage Valley Office February 9, 10 AM at the Lackawanna Valley Heritage Office February 15, 6 PM virtual meeting is scheduled. Contact Vanessa Billings-Seiler at facade@paroute6.com or (812) 774-7082 with questions on the public meetings or grant program. Contact the Lackawanna Heritage Valley at (570) 963-6730 for questions. Learn more about the program online at PARoute6.com/Façade-meeting. Read the full article online at The Times-Tribune.
2023 EMPOWER Teen Scholarship Program Scranton, PA – The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce announces the launch of a scholarship program to promote leadership development. The EMPOWER Teen Scholarship Program is a unique opportunity for teens to attend the Chamber’s EMPOWER NEPA Women’s Leadership Conference, presented by Geisinger. The EMPOWER Teen Scholarship Program is sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank. The EMPOWER Teen Scholarship program will provide teens with an opportunity to attend the EMPOWER NEPA Women’s Leadership Conference on April 13, 2023. Teens will hear from two keynote speakers that include Emmy award winner: Melissa Gilbert and world-renown communicator: Robyn Hatcher. The lessons and networking opportunities presented to the teens at the EMPOWER Conference will provide unique learning opportunities outside of the traditional classroom. The cost to attend the conference will be covered by the scholarship. Robert Durkin, President of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce shares, “Including these young students in the exciting environment of the EMPOWER Conference is a great element of this event. Their presence and energy will add to the experience of the adult participants, while the students will see that for successful business professionals learning is a life-long commitment.” The EMPOWER Teen Scholarship Program will provide 20 scholarships in 2023. The scholarships are open to teens aged 16 to 18 that are currently enrolled in high school and have a grade point average (GPA) that falls between 2.5—3.0. A maximum of two teens per school will be selected. “The Teen Scholarship Program will provide teens in our community with better visibility to their limitless potential and the gumption to grab the reigns of their future,” said, Elizabeth Nagy, VP, Director of Sales, Marketing, and Digital for The Honesdale National Bank. “The conference’s content, networking resources, and motivational atmosphere will shepherd earlier and necessary acknowledgment of self-worth and capability to drive growth and change.” To apply for a scholarship, students should visit www.ScrantonChamber.com and look for the EMPOWER conference tab the last day to submit applications is January 31. This is a competitive selection process and not all applicants can be selected. Completion of the application does not ensure acceptance. Scholarships will be announced in February 2023. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
A $10,000 grant could spark an entrepreneurial dream Scranton, PA — A business idea in Lackawanna County could lead to $10,000. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce has announced a new entrepreneurial program called TechCelerator @Lackawanna County: a collaborative effort of Lackawanna County, the Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern PA, TecBRIDGE, and the Chamber. The goal is to inspire entrepreneurs with early-stage, tech-based ideas to start a small business in Lackawanna County. Businesses that complete the program requirements will receive $10,000 in grant funding to offset their start-up costs. “Lackawanna County is thrilled to help facilitate the funding for entrepreneurs to see their dreams get started right in our county. Individuals who are even considering starting a tech-base business should apply to the TechCelerator @Lackwanna County program. Our goal is to see our community’s base diversify and new businesses be successful from start to finish in their entrepreneurial journey,” shared Jerry Notarianni, Chairman of the County Commissioners. TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty is a ten-week in-person experience where participants have access to formal mentors, educational opportunities, and access to subject matter experts on topics like business formation strategies, customer discovery, marketing, financial planning, and risk management. The result of the ten weeks is to build, share, and present a business plan for their early-stage companies. The program will be presented in collaboration with the Small Business Development Center, Carbondale Technology Transfer Center, The Penn State Scranton Launchbox, and the Lackawanna College Venture Lab. “Supporting entrepreneurship is at the core of the Chamber’s mission: to Attract, Sustain and, in this case, Grow in our region. This is a natural extension of our ongoing efforts to assist business start-ups through the IGNITE program, where our regional network of partners is working together to provide the platform for entrepreneurial success,” says Robert Durkin, President of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Hoping to ignite the county’s entrepreneurial spirit again, this unique program may very well change the participants’ worlds with $10,000. “One of the hardest parts of starting a business is taking the initial step to do it,” said Brianna Florovito from the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce affiliate, IGNITE. She continues, “[…] the TechCelerator program was created to walk entrepreneurs through the steps they need to take to establish their businesses and then provide them with the funding to grow.” The TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty is a competitive application process. All with ideas or early start-ups are encouraged to submit applications but not all will be selected to participate. To apply, visit the Chamber’s affiliate, IGNITE website at IGNITE.ScrantonChamber.com. Applications are due by January 16. To apply, visit IGNITE.ScrantonChamber.com and look for TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
Nominations for the 2023 ATHENA Award are Open! Scranton, PA—Nominations for the 2023 ATHENA Awards are open at ScrantonChamber.com. Today, nominate a person that advocates for women in the greater NEPA community. The ATHENA Award is presented to an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in her/his business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals and leadership skills. The ATHENA Award is sponsored by Michael A. Barbetti LLC Certified Public Accountants and will be presented at the Chamber’s International Women’s Day luncheon, sponsored by Honesdale National Bank, which will be held at Marywood University on Tuesday, March 8, 2023. The final day to submit nominations is 4:00 p.m., Friday, January 20. Find the application and eligibility criteria online at www.scrantonchamber.com. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by providing programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com. NOMINATE TODAY!
