HPEDC forum addresses business opportunities

HPEDC forum addresses business opportunities

In what was in some cases a lifesaver for several small businesses, and an opportunity to expand for others, the Hunts Point Economic Development Corporation held a seminar to help companies find tax incentives to stay afloat and grow.

The HPEDC business seminar is one of many the organization holds under its Chamber of Commerce program, helping businesses in Hunts Point and beyond become familiar with the many incentives and programs offered by the government to facilitate business retention and expansion.

The May 29 seminar, held at Monroe College, was considered a success, attracting over 30 participants, including diverse mix of Bronx businesses and service providers.

 “I think this program was very successful, and I got positive feedback from participants,” said Jeremie Sautter, director of economic development at HPEDC.

Representatives of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority were on hand, as was the New York State Empire Zone, and Anchin, Block & Anchin, a CPA firm that markets NYSERDA loans and also assists businesses with tapping Empire Zone tax incentives.

Anchin, Block & Anchin sponsored the event, which included speakers Llir Sadikay, of the NYC Economic Development Corporation, and Rachael Adams, of NYSERDA.

A representative of Con Edison, Patricia Smith, was also on hand to promote all the company is doing to help ratepayers save money on their electric costs.  Four banks participated in the seminar: Chase, HSBC, BPD Bank, and Signature Bank.

Jimmy Downs, a member of the HPEDC and the Empire Zone was impressed by the presentation, and said it would help him trim money off of his business’ bottom line. Downs is one of the principals in Hunts Point based Everest Scaffolding.

“The HPEDC has been really helpful for us since we moved into Hunts Point three years ago,” Downs said of his business, which has grown to over 30 employees. For Ramiro Jaurez, of REG Restoration, whose firm specializes in building façade, interior renovations, and roofing, the seminar was an eye-opening experience.

“This kind of meeting is helpful because you get new information on tax credits and employer benefit credits,” Jaurez noted. Jaurez moved REG Restoration from Long Island to Hunts Point two years ago.

 “I saw Hunts Point as a good opportunity to expand the company into a wider area,” Jaurez stated.

For more information on the HPEDC’s seminars, please call (718) 842-1717 ext. 226.