Local entrepreneurs have a new way to seek financing for their business. Several local institutions are launching a new online portal called Upstate Capital Connect. It's designed as a one-stop resource for connecting business owners with the right organization to suit their needs.
The $500,000 project is being funded by JPMorgan Chase. Buffalo Market Executive Bob McArdle says the investment is part of the bank's five-year committment to supporting the success of minority, women and veteran-run small businesses.
"These types of businesses sometimes do struggle to find the resources to get them and connect them with the growth capital that they need or just helping to pull together a business plan and finding the resources that they need. So certainly this type of investment, this portal, we hope will enable them to do that and do it a much easier fashion," McArdle said.
McArdle says Launch New York, Westminster Economic Development Initiative, Excelsior Growth Fund and PathStone Enterprise Center are taking part in Upstate Capital Connect.