On Tuesday, Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled her FY 2027 $260 billion state budget proposal. It contained many of the recommendations that were presented in the Blueprint for New York that was released late last year and which the BCW worked collaboratively on along with the Business Council of New York State, the New York State Economic Development Council, more than 40 associations, and over 500 business leaders from across the state. This includes efforts to cut regulations, no new taxes and no one shots or gimmicks. As part of the Governor’s “Let Them Build” agenda, she is proposing a series of landmark […]

On Wednesday, the BCW Tompkins Community Bank Power Breakfast brought together a dynamic panel of communications professionals for an expert-led session on crafting messages that resonate and inspire action. “From Story to Strategy—Branding, Marketing & Social Media Mastery” explored how organizations can build powerful brands and compelling narratives in an increasingly digital marketplace. The five panelists were Lauren Alperin, Partnerships Sales Manager, New York Family Media; Daniel Sieger, Chief Storyteller, Stories for Good; Matt Sullivan, Executive Director, LMC Media; Kevin Bruckner, Owner & Creative Director, BRUCK STUDIOS; Jennefer Witter, CEO & Founder, The Boreland Group Inc. The panel touched on […]

On January 20, The Journal News published an editorial about energy reliability by BCW Executive Vice President and COO John Ravitz. The editorial argued that New York’s needs an all-of-the-above approach to grid reliability. That approach includes using biofuels, a diesel replacement made from sources like used cooking oil, recycled restaurant grease, animal fats and other waste streams that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 86%. One of the BCW’s Clean Energy Action Coalition (CEAC) main objectives is to utilize using bio-fuels as a reliable and affordable renewable energy system. Read more…

This week the Business Council of Westchester announced the winners of its prestigious Business Hall of Fame Awards, which recognize Westchester’s top business leaders. The winners will be honored at the 25th Annual Business Hall of Fame Awards Dinner on April 28 at the Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle. The winners are: Corporate Citizenship: Yonkers Contracting Company, Yonkers Entrepreneurial Success: The Mines Press, Cortlandt Manor Family Business Success:New Crystal Restoration, Port Chester Minority Business Success:Corine Lurry-Mabin, Andrus, Yonkers Small Business Success:Inspiria Outdoor Advertising, White Plains  Women in Business Success: Beata Mastalerz, President, Phelps Hospital/Northwell Health, Sleepy Hollow Chairman’s Recognition Award: Accredited Limousine […]

The Business Council of Westchester (BCW) is launching AI Intensive 2026, a groundbreaking professional development program designed to elevate local business leaders’ proficiency in artificial intelligence and gives small businesses unprecedented access to AI tools, training and support.  Supported by Google.org, this five-week comprehensive course starting February 24 offers a guided learning experience focused on hands-on application and responsible AI use. Each participating business that completes the cohort will receive Google.org-funded support to accelerate AI adoption and technology upgrades tailored to their organizational needs.  “This represents one of the most significant AI opportunities ever offered to small businesses in Westchester,” […]

On Wednesday Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins met with the BCW’s Board of Directors and he underscored the indispensable role the organization plays in the region’s economic health. Addressing a room of key business leaders and stakeholders, Jenkins emphasized that the BCW is not merely an advocate for industry but a vital partner in the administration’s ongoing efforts to drive economic development and navigate the complex challenges facing the county. Jenkins highlighted the seamless constructive collaboration between his economic development team—led by Joan McDonald and Bridget Gibbons—and the BCW. He noted that many of the hurdles facing local businesses are […]