WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 9, 2023 – Livingston County’s economic development goals will take a big step forward in 2023 and beyond after U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand secured $500,000 in federal funding to support a County-led initiative focused on the creation, growth and advocacy for small businesses.
The Dream-O-Vate program is a scalable and replicable initiative developed by the Livingston County Economic Development Office that encourages entrepreneurs to apply and compete for the chance to open a storefront business and earn a coveted business start-up benefits package designed to help turn their dream into a reality.
“I’d like to thank Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for their tireless efforts in support of our small businesses,” said David L. LeFeber, Chair of the Livingston County Board of Supervisors. “Dream-O-Vate has had a significant economic impact throughout our area by spurning the creation of new opportunities and attracting small businesses to our County. Initiatives like this are critical as we continue to develop ways to bolster economic growth.”
The Dream-O-Vate program aims to recruit new businesses while also assisting existing businesses that plan to significantly expand or branch into an additional business concept. As a result, the program has improved the economic climate for all area businesses through increased resident and tourist traffic.
“The Dream-O-Vate program has been highly successful in providing financial support and mentorship for small businesses and continues to have a profound impact on our towns and villages,” added William Bacon, Director of Livingston County’s Economic Development. “Senators Schumer and Gillibrand understand that rural economic development begins at the grassroots level and their continued support of our innovative approach to building our entrepreneurial economy has been instrumental for the growth and progress in Livingston County.”
The project is part of over $250 million in funding that the Senators were able to deliver to the Rochester-Finger Lakes Region in an effort to support key infrastructure, job training, educational opportunities and other meaningful projects.
Described as a game-changer for small businesses, Dream-O-Vate provides training, funding and the essential resources and tools needed to successfully open businesses. Learn more about the County’s small business advocacy and the Dream-O-Vate initiative by visiting Grow LivCo’s official website.
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is comprised of more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.