SEEC Celebrates Economic Development Week 2026 in its 6th Year - Featuring United Way, NYS Homes & Community Renewal and UAlbany-led Activities

SCHOHARIE — Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation (SEEC), in coordination with Schoharie County Partners for Advancing Resilient Communities (SPARC), is proud to announce its lineup of events for Economic Development Week 2026, taking place Monday through Friday, May 4–8.

Since 2020, SEEC has participated in the International Economic Development Council's (IEDC) Economic Development Week, an annual celebration of the impact that economic development organizations, local businesses, and community leaders have in their regions. This year's Collaboration theme mirrors the IEDC's national theme and shines a spotlight on the partnerships driving innovation, growth, and lasting change across Schoharie County.

"Together, we are writing the next chapter of economic opportunity across Schoharie County, “ remarked Julie Pacatte, SEEC Executive Director. “These events reflect the power of collaboration between agencies, businesses, municipalities, and residents - all of whom are invited to participate this year, creating a stronger, more resilient community."

EVENTS AT A GLANCE

Monday, May 4 — 287 Main Coworker Open House

Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Location: 287 Main Street, Schoharie (SEEC Headquarters)

Tour SEEC's coworking venue and art gallery in collaboration with Schoharie County Arts. Locally roasted coffee served all day. Open to entrepreneurs and curious art enthusiasts looking for a professional workspace outside the home.

Who should attend:  Entrepreneurs and/or curious art enthusiasts

Tuesday, May 5 — Tacos & Trust: A Cinco de Mayo Collaboration Conversation

Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Location: 287 Main Street, Schoharie

United Way facilitated conversation about the power of collaboration, bringing together local "Weavers", individuals who solve problems and build relationships for a stronger community. United Way will be awarding up to $250,000 to Weavers across Schoharie, Fulton, and Montgomery counties this year. Weaver applications open in June. Featuring tacos by local vendors and locally crafted margaritas. Registration is required.

Wednesday, May 6 — Connected Communities Power-Up!

Time: Remarks and ribbon cutting at 3:30 PM Location: Art Park, Wells Ave, Middleburgh

Celebrating the launch of free public WiFi and outdoor charging stations at Middleburgh's Art Park, a collaborative effort of Schoharie County government, the Village of Middleburgh, SEEC, and MIDTEL. This project, part of the Schoharie County Digital Revolution, was made possible by a NYS Homes & Community Renewal (HCR) Community Development Block Grant. Join Mayor Knight and NYS HCR representatives for the official ribbon-cutting and power-up.

Thursday, May 7 — SPARC Igniting Prosperity: Collaboration for Economic Growth

Time: 6:30 PM – 7:45 PM Location: CRCS High School Auditorium

A showcase of the initiatives shaping Schoharie County's future. Community panelists include Town Supervisor Werner Hampel, Chair of the Schoharie County Economic Development Committee; Denise Kelly, Former Mayor of the Village of Sharon Springs; Dasha Mattia, owner of Middleburgh Coffee Co.; and Andrew Rowles, representing Wayward Lane Brewing. Agency discussions will cover Agricultural Events, Agritourism, Broadband, Empire State Greenhouses, Hoshino Resorts, Small Businesses, and Municipal Resources. Registration is required.

Friday, May 8 — Revitalizing Communities Together: AI-Driven Strategies for Asset Management Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM Location: 287 Main Street, Schoharie

UAlbany's Center for Technology in Government will demonstrate its Community Asset Tracker (CAT), a low-cost mobile IoT sensor network and AI analysis system. This interactive session invites municipal representatives and community members to help test and tailor data tools for smarter local government management of code enforcement, pothole tracking, street sweeping, sidewalk maintenance, and more.

Register for all events by calling SEEC at (518) 517-1700 or online at www.seecny.org.