The Agency, formerly the Broome County Industrial Development Agency, will host a grand opening to launch the opening of its small business incubator in downtown Binghamton. In January of this year, The Agency assumed the operations of the former Greater Binghamton Innovation Center, formerly located at 123 Court St. The Agency has relocated the current members and has plans to increase its incubator members through partnerships with Binghamton University and the Southern Tier Startup Alliance. The center is designed to provide entrepreneurs and small business start-ups the infrastructure to begin their company, including affordable, private office space and collaborative open work space memberships. The Agency has partnered with Binghamton University to have the space designated for eligible START-UP NY companies and is a member of the Southern Tier Startup Alliance; which provides access to Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs) and can provide specific tax benefits for eligible companies located at The Center. Potential member companies are required to complete a membership application including a business model canvas that will be used for the basis of their company's growth in the first year. The Center will partner with local business development organizations, private industry and the Entrepreneurs in Residence to provide seminars and workshops for member companies. "It's imperative that economic development professionals focus on the growth of entrepreneurs as a vital part of our local economy," said Kevin McLaughlin, executive director of The Agency. "We are excited to be a part of building the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Broome County."