QEDC Announces Fall Online Programs

Aiming to help entrepreneurs, established business owners, home improvement contractors, minorities, immigrants, women, and others during a difficult time, the Queens Economic Development Corporation (QEDC) announced its lineup of online programs and services for the second half of 2020.

First of all, QEDC has partnered with Astorian — a local tech startup that allows building managers to get bids from qualified contractors and post needed repairs online — to launch a 10-hour Home Improvement Contractor Training.

Led by an experienced teacher, the virtual course prepares participants to take the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs licensing exam. The course informs on such topics as permits, licensing, development, liability, procurement, and access to capital.

Upon obtaining a license, HICT graduates will be able to use Astorian’s platform to promote their businesses, build relationships, and get connected to jobs. HICT consists of two five-hour classes on October 3 and 4 that start at 9 am. Tuition is $199.

Second, the Entrepreneurship Assistance Center (EAC) offers a 20-class, 60-hour course on how to create a business and earn revenue. Aimed at aspiring and existing small business owners, participants learn about target markets, get validation for their ideas, and use data to create feasible business plans.

EAC also offers a network of professionals willing to offer technical assistance to solve individual financial, technology, and legal problems. All 20 classes will stream at a twice-a-week clip from October to December. For more information, contact Bhavna Punjwani at [email protected].

QEDC is also currently working with sponsoring partners Queens Public Library and Resorts World Casino New York City on a virtual format for the 14th annual Queens StartUP! Business Plan Competition.

The online classes are currently being scheduled. Send an email to [email protected] with “Queens StartUP” in the subject headline to receive details as they develop. (EAC participants can enter the StartUP! competition.)

Furthermore, QEDC continues offering M/WBE certification. Women and minorities who have been in business for at least a year can obtain a special designation that would give them priority for government contracts. Online class will take place on the third Thursday of each month. For more information, contact Ricardi Calixte at [email protected].

Along the same lines, the Queens Women’s Business Center continues to help woman start and improve their companies. Andrea Ormeño provides one-on-one counseling and presents workshops and networking opportunities, including the periodical Power Networking Breakfast, which usually attracts about 50 female entrepreneurs. Contact her at [email protected].

MadeInQueens (MiQ) continues to promote local makers and manufacturers, sharing their stories, and providing opportunities for new and existing businesses to grow and flourish. The MiQ contact is Michael Gillen at [email protected].

Finally, online and telephone counseling is available, and QEDC’s website (queensny.org) has resource documents and a video library with all the webinars related to the two recent ReBoot & ReStart programs.

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