Joan Wissert, the creative force behind Middleburgh Mercantile, has crafted more than just a small business—she’s built a home in the heart of Middleburgh, one that’s rooted in deep passion for community, sustainability, and artisanal craftsmanship. Supporting small and local businesses is a motto Joan lives by, “If someone has that entrepreneurial spirit, I’m going to support them.” 

Click the image to read the full October 2024 release of "Tales from the Trail" from the Schoharie County Eagle Trail!

The Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation (SEEC) issued a call for nominations for the 2024 ENLIGHTEN AND ASPIRE AWARDS. Non-traditional recognition is offered by SEEC and its major benefactors, Dusty and Tom Putnam, who will present the awards in December. SEEC has received dozens of qualified nominations over the years with the selection of two annual winners. The recognition is directed toward inspiring individuals or entities eligible from every corner of the County who are essential to fostering economic growth in Schoharie County.

Discover the inspiring journey of Joanne Crum, a trailblazing entrepreneur with over 38 years in business as a Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) land surveyor and attorney. Joanne's story is one of perseverance, community, and leadership, from a $1,000 gamble in 1957 to founding her own surveying company in a male-dominated field. Learn how she balances career, family, and mentorship while shaping the next generation of professionals in Schoharie County.

Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp (SEEC) is thrilled to announce the concluding session of its 2024 Digital Power Hour series. On September 23rd, SEEC will host the final installment of the series, focusing on helping small business owners utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance their digital presence and operational efficiency. 

The Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp (SEEC) is pleased to announce its support for the Village of Schoharie in applying for two significant New York State funding programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and New York Forward (NYF) for 2024. These programs offer transformative funding opportunities to enhance community development and economic growth. 

The Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation (SEEC) proudly hosted a pivotal MWBE Certification event at 287 Main Street last week, just days before Women’s Equality Day. This luncheon brought together 17 women-owned small businesses, along with local business owners and agency representatives, to provide crucial insights and support for pursuing Minority-Women Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) certification. The event underscored SEEC’s commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs and advancing business opportunities in the community.

SEEC features, Dean Haskin, owner of Mickle Hollow Maple & Honey in Schoharie County for the August 2024 ROOTED article. Dean has turned his passion for beekeeping and maple tapping into a successful business known for its premium honey and maple products - offering a variety of products like infused creamed honey and maple creams. Mickle Hollow emphasizes sustainable agriculture and the importance of bees in local crop pollination by hand-building the hives, and creating a thriving environment for them. Visit Mickle Hollow’s apiary in Warnerville, Schoharie County, NY - or find their products at local farm stands and retailers.

SEEC announces the “NYS Sail-Thru Summer MWBE Certification Chat,” scheduled for Thursday, August 22nd. The event will take place at 287 Main, Schoharie, and will feature a panel of distinguished representatives from New York State’s Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) certification office of Empire State Development. This certification is intended to support and enhance opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses across all sectors, by providing access to government contracts, funding opportunities, and other resources designed to help them grow and succeed. Schoharie County has 16 certified MWBE businesses, and local MWBE owners have been invited to attend and share their experiences with interested guests.

Click the image to read the full August 2024 release of "Tales from the Trail" from the Schoharie County Eagle Trail!

SEEC got the opportunity to interview the founder of Brimstone Bakery, Anthony Leberto. A member of Beekman 1802’s former community of artisans, Brimstone Bakery, takes pride in sourcing local ingredients, using fresh eggs from local farmers, honey from nearby apiaries, and local produce. A local gem in the Village of Sharon Springs, Schoharie County, NY, the local bakery has captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike, and is a true testament to Anthony's 30+ years of culinary expertise and creativity.

In a recent interview, SEEC had the privilege of delving into the journey of founder and owner of Love Shine Tea, Michelle Rivera: a dynamic and determined driving force of community. As a local entrepreneur, mother of four, and community curator, she has become Rooted in Schoharie Valley through her creation of Love Shine Tea: a tea, plant-based and allergen-friendly bakery, eatery, and cafe. Located on Schoharie's historic Main Street, Love Shine Tea emerges as more than a tea shop—but a sanctuary of compassion, community, and empowerment.

Click the image to read the full June 2024 release of "Tales from the Trails" from the Schoharie County Eagle Trail!

SEEC had the privilege of interviewing the founders of Weiss Ferments—an intimate, multi-acre outdoor brewery and biergarten. Owners, Erica and Brian Weiss, weave a narrative of nostalgia and community, drawing NYS Craft Beer Award-winning inspiration from simpler times. To them, their journey in Schoharie County goes beyond crafting gold-medal beer and healthy bread, to create moments of true connection and belonging within Schoharie County's community.

Click the image to read the full April 2024 release of "Tales from the Trails" from the Schoharie County Eagle Trail!