COBLESKILL — Schoharie County leaders and economic development partners are proud to announce SPARC: Igniting Prosperity, an upcoming event during Economic Development Week designed to bring together residents, business owners, local stakeholders and elected officials to discuss ongoing economic development initiatives, strengthen connections, and drive economic growth across the region.
“SPARC: Igniting Prosperity” is a ground-breaking economic development forum focused on how community partners are building a strong, resilient Schoharie County. This first-of-its-kind event was created by members of SPARC to showcase the many important initiatives shaping the future of Schoharie County. Attendees at this inaugural event will have the opportunity to hear from local economic development leaders and a discussion panel on regional opportunities and strategies to support businesses. The forum will take place on Thursday, May 7th at 6:30PM at Cobleskill-Richmondville Highschool.
Schoharie County Partners for Advancing Resilient Communities (SPARC) was a group formed in recognition that economic development in Schoharie County needs to be a collaborative effort. SPARC strives to make life better for the county’s current and future generations through the collaboration and advancement of economic development projects. SPARC includes the current members of the Schoharie County Industrial Development Agency (SCIDA), Destination Marketing Corporation (DMC), SUNY Cobleskill’s Institute for Rural Vitality (IRV), Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation (SEEC), Schoharie County Office of Agricultural Development, and Schoharie County Office of Economic Development.
“This event is about celebrating the great work happening in economic development in Schoharie County,” said Bryan Best, Schoharie County Administrator, “SPARC is providing an opportunity to share ideas, celebrate our strengths, and identify actionable steps that will help Schoharie County thrive.”
The event will feature:
• Interactive discussion on economic development and community revitalization
• Opportunities for community members to ask questions and share input
• Networking with local businesses, entrepreneurs, and leaders
Participating panelists include:
Denise Kelly, Former Mayor, Village of Sharon Springs Middleburgh Coffee Co.
Wayward Lane Brewing Schoharie County Industrial Development Agency Schoharie County Office of Agricultural Development Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation The Institute of Rural Vitality at SUNY Cobleskill Schoharie County Economic Development Destination Marketing Corporation Werner Hampel, Town of Cobleskill Supervisor
Event Details:
What: SPARC: Igniting Prosperity
When: May 7th, 2026 at 6:30PM
Where: Cobleskill-Richmondville High school, Cobleskill, New York
Who Should Attend: Residents, business owners, elected officials, municipal leaders, community organizations, and anyone interested in the future of Schoharie County
Community members are encouraged to attend and help shape the county’s path forward. Whether you are a lifelong resident, a new entrepreneur, or simply passionate about your community, your voice is an important part of this conversation.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact economicdev@schohariecounty-ny.gov.
