TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty Cohort 3 Showcases Innovative Startups During Final Presentations The latest cohort of TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty celebrated their entrepreneurial journey with a final presentation event held at Marywood University on Wednesday, December 11. Surrounded by local funders, dignitaries, family, and friends, the participants demonstrated the progress of their innovative business ventures developed during the 10-week program. TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty, operated by The Greater Scranton Chamber entrepreneurship and incubator program, IGNITE, in partnership with Lackawanna County, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania, and tecBRIDGE aims to cultivate a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Lackawanna County by empowering tech-based startups with the tools and support needed to succeed. “You are pioneers,” Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan told the entrepreneurs. “By daring to bring your ideas to life, you are not only shaping your own futures but also the future of our community. Your hard work, creativity, and determination embody the entrepreneurial spirit that will drive Lackawanna County forward in the years to come.” Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber, echoed this sentiment, “TechCelerator is a perfect example of what can happen when public and private interests come together. Under this program, the concerted efforts of the Lackawanna County Commissioners, Ben Franklin Technology Partners, tecBRIDGE, and The Chamber have now given a total of 23 individuals and business partners the opportunity to pursue their dreams of business ownership.” This third cohort featured a diverse group of entrepreneurs, each with a unique vision to address real-world challenges: Don McGowan, The Cusp Club John George, CrasherConnect Eric Farrell, EZ Fantasy Sports Veronica LaRocque, Grow with L.E.A.R.N. LLC Fred Aebli, GetMeCoding.com Justin Byrd, SelfServeMenu.com Joel DeCarli, Apex Innovations Bill Booth, trasectory The program provided participants with access to expert mentors, business development resources, and networking opportunities to refine their business plans and pitches. The event culminated in powerful presentations that highlighted each entrepreneur’s vision and progress. The Greater Scranton Chamber and The County are committed to supporting two more cohorts of entrepreneurs who dream of owning and operating their own businesses in the region.
Hudspeth Joins The Chamber as Human Resources Manager The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Kristin Hudspeth as its new Human Resources Manager. In this role, Hudspeth oversees all aspects of human resources, including recruitment, employee engagement, benefits administration, and compliance with labor laws. She plays a pivotal role in fostering a positive and productive workplace culture, working closely with The Chamber’s leadership team to align HR strategies with organizational goals. “On behalf of The Chamber, I am pleased that Kristin Hudspeth has become part of our Team. Kristin’s vast experience and personality will certainly make this newly created position a success,” shared James Coleman, vice president of internal administration. Hudspeth brings extensive HR management experience, including her recent role leading the executive director search for the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic—showcasing her commitment to supporting local organizations and their missions. She has led innovative human resource solutions at IKEA North America Services and beyond. Hudspeth’s expertise includes talent acquisition, learning and development, and employee engagement, with a proven track record of supporting employee growth and driving business success. A native of Clarks Summit, PA, Hudspeth holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from the State University of New York – F.I.T. She is passionate about creating workplace environments where employees thrive and organizations excel. The Chamber’s leadership is excited to welcome Hudspeth to the team and looks forward to her contributions to advancing its mission of supporting businesses and communities in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Cimahosky Honored as a Top 20 Under 40 by NEPA Business Journal The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is proud to announce that AJ Cimahosky, business development specialist, has been selected as one of the Top 20 Under 40 by the NEPA Business Journal. This prestigious recognition highlights young professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to their communities and industries. In his role at The Chamber, Cimahosky supports the organization’s mission to drive business and economic development in Lackawanna County. He works within the Chambers divisions of Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO) and The Scranton Plan. Through The Scranton Plan, Cimahosky manages marketing initiatives that promote job creation and retention in the region. His work with SLIBCO involves attracting new industries, facilitating business expansion, and supporting facilities management, further bolstering the area’s economic growth. “AJ has been an integral member of the Chamber’s Business Development team since 2021, playing a key role in advancing our region’s business attraction efforts, fostering job creation, and driving community investment initiatives,” shared Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development. “His dedication has not only contributed to the Chamber’s success but has also created a meaningful and lasting impact on Lackawanna County.” Cimahosky brings a wealth of experience to his current role, including his time as a business development and research analyst at Mericle Commercial Real Estate, where he specialized in economic development and marketing, and as Manager of Continuing Education for Johnson College. Cimahosky is a NEPA native, a Honesdale High School alum, and a graduate of Pennsylvania State University with a bachelor of science degree in Energy, Business, & Finance. He currently resides in Glenburn Township with his wife, Sara, and his daughter, Aubrey.
2024 Graduates of Leadership Lackawanna Executive Program Leadership Lackawanna is proud to announce the 2024 graduates of its Executive Program. Leadership Lackawanna’s six-week Executive Program, sponsored by Comcast Business, deeply engages high-level professionals in the greater Scranton region, broadens their social network, and increases their overall knowledge of the community. It accepts applications from professionals in an executive-level (director or higher) position with extensive industry experience and demonstrated career progression. “Our mission at Leadership Lackawanna is to enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of our participants,” said Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna. “I’m confident the 16 individuals in this year’s Executive Level Program gained valuable insight into our mission and that they forged lasting connections that will strengthen them, both personally and professionally. It is my sincere hope that they will take these benefits and use them to positively impact the community!” This year, participants meet key business and community leaders as they receive an overview of Lackawanna County’s history and culture, economic and political structures, community events, civic groups, recreational activities, and nonprofit organizations. Sessions were held one evening per week for six consecutive weeks at various locations in the greater Scranton community, including cocktails and dinner. The 2024 Executive Program graduates include: Jen Azarowicz, Plaskolite Dana Bilotta, Tobyhanna Army Depot Bonnie Carone, Geisinger Community Medical Center Nick Coleman, Geisinger Health Sarah Effertz, Blu Elefante Events Kyle Gattuso, PNC Bank Maggie Hawk, Hawk Family Foundation Doug Hein, Scranton Counseling Center Kristin Hudspeth, PeoplePro Advisors Alexandra Kusoffsky, Alleima Maggie Martinelli, Scranton Area Community Foundation Al O’Donnell, Scranton School District Adam Ropati, The Dime Bank Frank K. Sweeney, Scranton Rent All Corp Ruth Turkington, Fidelity Bank Aimee Wechsler, The Wright Center for Community Health
EMPOWER Women’s Network Luncheon The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce hosted its November EMPOWER Women’s Network Luncheon at The Greenridge Club in Scranton. Lisa Lori, president of Marywood University, presented on the topic of Dream Big. Dress for Success Lackawanna executive director gave special remarks at the luncheon. Register for the January EMPOWER Women’s Network Luncheon at ScrantonChamber.com.
2024–25 Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Class Announced The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and its community leadership and professional development division, Leadership Lackawanna, is proud to announce the 2024–25 class of Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT)—a transformative program that prepares high school juniors for leadership roles in their communities. Sponsored by NBT Bank, the TLT program spans seven months, immersing students in hands-on experiences across essential sectors, including healthcare, STEAM, history and heritage, crime and corrections, financial literacy, philanthropy, nonprofit organizations, and community service. “This year, we are proud to welcome these 67 remarkable teens into the Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Program. We’re hopeful they’ll use the skills and knowledge they gain over the next seven months to positively impact their schools and communities as confident and capable young leaders,” shared Jen Strzelec, program coordinator for Leadership Lackawanna. The TLT program provides these young leaders with unique opportunities to develop critical leadership, interpersonal, and managerial skills. Throughout the program, students will engage in workshops, field visits, and interactive discussions led by regional experts and industry leaders, preparing them for the real-world challenges and opportunities that await them. The class participants are: Addison Daiute Aidan Tinney Andrew McDonald Anthony Betti Audrey Agnello Ava Roberto Ava Strzelec Ava Wisnosky Benjamin Reese Benjamin Kulikowski Brendan Korty Charlie Stampien Emily Atonal Emily Grover Emily Loomis Emma Guse Emmelia Rucks Gabriella Dennis Gabrielle Jordan Gavin Roberts Gianna Vachino Grace Bennett Isabelle O’Brien Jaiden Trunzo James Prislupski Joseph Griffin Joshua Cuck Julia Noto Kate Peters Kathryn Apolinario Kathryn O’Hora Katie Gutekunst Kaylyn Davis Kelsey Smith Kevin Vincent Khloe Mistishin Kiera Crowell Kiley Williams Krithika Krishnan Lauren Bartell Lindsey Bartell Luke Warring Madeleine Mackarey Madelyn Battaglia Madison Hallock Madison Smith Maryn Kukuchka Matther Kirchner Mia Peregrim Molly Carter Molly Banik Mya Cesarini Natalia Ghirelli Natalie Talluto Natalie Puckett Nathan Beecham Nmesoma Udoye Nora Crambo Olive O’Rourke Olivia Lawler Olivia Lach Raphael Thomas Ryan DeMarco Sona Hanumali Timmy Fogley William Murphy Wyatt Barucky
Get ready for AMEX Small Business Saturday on November 30! Shop Small, an initiative launched by American Express (AMEX), is dedicated to supporting local, small businesses that form the backbone of communities across the country. Each November, Shop Small culminates in Small Business Saturday, a day encouraging shoppers to choose local businesses for their holiday needs. By doing so, consumers directly boost their local economy, helping to create jobs, sustain neighborhoods, and maintain the vibrant character of their towns and cities. The Chamber is proud to champion small businesses, which make up 80% of its membership, most of them with fewer than 25 employees. These businesses are the heartbeat of our organization, providing unique products, personalized services, and driving innovation across various industries in northeastern Pennsylvania. The Chamber remains committed to supporting members’ growth through resources, networking opportunities, and initiatives like Shop Small. This November, we encourage everyone to shop local and support Chamber members that contribute so much to our community. Provided by members is a list of deals and discounts that you can take part in this season. Search for Chamber members. Download AMEX Toolkit
Wallenpaupack Freshmen Visit Scranton Enterprise Center to Explore Entrepreneurship and Workforce Resources The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed the Wallenpaupack Area School District’s freshman class of 2028 to the Scranton Enterprise Center for an engaging day focused on business, entrepreneurship, and workforce development. The visit introduced students to resources available in Lackawanna County, such as the IGNITE program and the Chamber’s Career Resource Video Library, aimed at supporting students interested in pursuing careers in northeastern Pennsylvania. During the visit, students learned about the resources and support available for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners, gaining insights into potential career pathways. “This experience was a great way for students to learn about entrepreneurship and small businesses in our area as a potential career path,” said Maria Day, IGNITE Program Manager. The event highlighted the resources and programs designed to help students explore career and educational opportunities within Lackawanna County. Throughout the day, students were introduced to incubator businesses and other resources offered by the Chamber, providing them with valuable exposure to the world of entrepreneurship and insights into the opportunities it can offer. Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist at the Chamber, emphasized the importance of introducing young students to local workforce resources early on to foster a mindset of goal-setting and career exploration. The Chamber’s commitment to nurturing northeastern Pennsylvania’s future workforce includes initiatives that introduce students to career pathways and encourage proactive planning. Through programs like IGNITE and Skills in Scranton, the Chamber’s workforce development division, aims to inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators.
The Chamber Celebrates Business and Economic Growth at the 2024 Chamber Gala featuring the SAGE Awards The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce hosted its Chamber Gala on Friday, November 1, where they presented the 2024 SAGE Awards, the Scranton Awards for Growth and Excellence. This year’s event was held at Mohegan Pennsylvania, and was sponsored by Verizon. Chamber Board Chair Jerry Musheno opened the ceremony by thanking all finalists, award sponsors, and Gala sponsors for their dedication to the NEPA community. NoWhere Slow provided musical entertainment for the evening. The SAGE Awards honor outstanding local businesses for their talent, creativity, and innovation. The Chamber received nearly 80 SAGE Award applications. A team of nearly 40 volunteers scored the applications. The top three scoring applications were named finalists. The Chamber congratulates all finalists and winners of the 2024 SAGE Awards. The winners in each category are: BUSINESS OF THE YEARMount Airy Casino Resort COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT EXCELLENCEThe Wright Center for Community Health CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCEGeisinger/Geisinger Community Medical Center MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS EXCELLENCEMarket Share Consulting NEW AND EMERGING BUSINESS OF THE YEARPelican’s SnoBalls NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION OF THE YEARCHOP Out Hunger PEOPLE’S CHOICENortheast Title & Tag, Inc. PRODUCTS AND SERVICES EXCELLENCESki Shack SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEARLynn Sandy’s Bakery WORKPLACE EXCELLENCEJHA Companies In addition, several businesses received Milestone Certificates recognizing their longevity and leadership in our community. They are: 5 Year Recipients Black Scranton Project CHOP Out Hunger Naked Toffee SEEDs of Hope 10 Year Recipients Coal Creative SkyZone Pittston 15 Year Recipient Marley’s Mission 20 Year Recipient Tri-Star Academy 25 Year Recipient Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA 30 Year Recipient Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center 40 Year Recipient Bread Basket of NEPA 45 Year Recipient hc architects 55 Year Recipients G.R. Noto Electrical Construction, Inc. Happenings Magazine 85 Year Recipient Tuxedo By Sarno 100 Year Recipient St. Mary’s Villa Campus
The Chamber Welcomes Langan, Business Development Specialist The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is excited to announce the hiring of Lexie Langan as a new business development specialist. In her role, Lagan will leverage her extensive sales, marketing, and real estate background to drive business development growth within Lackawanna County. A graduate of The University of Scranton, Lagan brings a wealth of experience to her role. With experience selling office supplies to business development within the engineering and construction sectors, Langan has explored the rapidly evolving field of SaaS software and field marketing across the greater Scranton and Pocono region. Langan began in her role at The Chamber in August. She will work primarily in the Chamber’s business development affiliate, the Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), and The Scranton Plan program to attract, sustain, and grow businesses and jobs contributing to local prosperity and workforce development. “We are delighted to welcome Lexie Langan to our business development team,” said Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development. “With her experience in marketing and business development, Langan will be instrumental in driving our mission to attract, sustain, and grow businesses and jobs in Lackawanna County. Her expertise and strategic insight will strengthen our business development initiatives, and we look forward to the valuable contributions she will bring to our team.” Outside of The Chamber, Langan is a dedicated aunt to her favorite niece and nephew, Hazel and Hammond. She loves exploring new cities, indulging in unique culinary experiences, and immersing herself in the magic of Disney World.
