New Program Provides Busy Professionals with Opportunity to Continue Education, Advance Career Interests.

Venture Connects, a new program through Morrisville State College, has located in The Tech Garden--offering entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs an opportunity to continue their education and advance their pursuits without disrupting their busy schedules.

Through Morrisville Venture Connects, students who have earned an associate degree in multiple disciplines can earn a bachelor of business degree in entrepreneurship and small business management from Morrisville State College, taking courses that fit into their daily schedules at The Tech Garden. The successful equation behind the program is a hybrid format of online and flexible weekend classes at The Tech Garden, in addition to workshops, internships and externships.

The state-of-the-art facility of The Tech Garden will provide the environment and resources to stimulate innovation and technological creativity for students, who will have the opportunity to learn in a real business environment while also engaging in the entrepreneurship process hands-on.

"This is made possible because the Tech Garden is the center for business incubation in Syracuse, where students can witness and learn from seasoned entrepreneurs and interact with start-up companies," said Dr. Emad Rahim, assistant professor of entrepreneurship and small business management at Morrisville State College and teacher in the Venture Connects Program. He added "Because of this centralized location and through our partnerships and networks, students will have an enormous pool of resources and experts to help bring their business idea to fruition."

Students who complete the two-year program will leave with a bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship and small business management under their belts and more.

"They will also have a completed business plan and the opportunity to apply for seed money to start or expand their business," Dr. Rahim said.

The Venture Connects Office is now located at Syracuse Technology Garden in downtown Syracuse. Venture Connects is also located at Cayuga Community College and plans to expand to other locations too.

For more information about Venture Connects, call 315.579.2864, e- mail Rahime@morrisville.edu or visit www.morrisville.edu/ventureconnects.