Suffolk Reporter

Congressman Nick LaLota (R-District 01) joined the Stony Brook Small Business Development Center (SBDC), a member of Stony Brook University’s Economic Development organization, along with senior management to celebrate a selection of successful small businesses assisted by the SBDC in his district on Long Island. The Congressman congratulated the entrepreneurs on their achievements and encouraged continued economic independence.

“Visiting the Stony Brook University Small Business Development Center was a great opportunity to see firsthand the vital work they do to help small businesses across Long Island thrive,” said Congressman LaLota. “With rising costs and overregulation making it harder for these businesses to succeed, it’s more important than ever to support initiatives like this, which provide the tools and resources necessary to overcome these challenges.”

The event underscored that Small Business Development Centers rely on support from the United States Congress. Acknowledgment was given to Congressman LaLota for his commitment to government service and small business communities.

Martha Stansbury, regional director for the Stony Brook Small Business Development Center, opened the event with a welcome to Congressman LaLota and Economic Development senior management: Kevin Gardner, vice president of research; Michael Kinch, chief innovation officer; and Peter Donnelly, associate vice president of technology partnerships. Stansbury also congratulated the small businesses present before inviting Gardner to extend his welcome.

“It was incredible to hear the great success stories from these local entrepreneurs and how the SBDC has assisted them along the way. Starting a successful business is not just about having a great idea but about the relentless pursuit of turning that idea into reality,” said Gardner. “Stony Brook University’s SBDC is here to support and guide these young businesses and help them succeed to become the heartbeat of our community.”

The Stony Brook SBDC, one of 20 centers in New York State, has served entrepreneurs for almost 40 years. Its mission is to strengthen small- and medium-sized businesses by providing customized business solutions through free and confidential one-on-one business advisement, education, research, and advocacy.