Small business success stories are being celebrated during National Small Business Week in Central and Upstate New York. The Small Business Development Center at Onondaga Community College has named eight small businesses of the year, one in each of the counties it serves. Among the honorees are Clean and Glo Cleaning Services in Syracuse, and Broadwell Hospitality Group in Oswego County. Bob Griffin, the SBDC regional director, acknowledges that the formula for success varies among businesses. Understanding cash flow, providing the right product and service, and targeting the right consumers at the right time are all essential components of success.
Griffin emphasizes that without these essential elements, a business will struggle regardless of how hard the owner works. The SBDC office serves around 2,000 clients annually, with 80 percent being start-ups in operation for one to three years or in the planning stages. Despite efforts, Griffin notes that 95 percent of these businesses will not succeed. He adds that sometimes it is best not to proceed with launching a business, and the role of advisors is to provide information so individuals can make informed decisions.
The Small Business Administration will be naming the Upstate New York Veteran-owned small business of the year on Friday. The 2024 Small Business of the Year honorees include Clean and Glo Cleaning Services and Broadwell Hospitality Group.