STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC) on Thursday announced two grants that will impact the borough's business community.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
A $25,000 grant from Northfield Foundation will fund the launch of a workforce development program, SI Works, to help place Staten Island residents in industrial jobs.
Through the grant, the SIEDC will be able to utilize relationships with industrial employers to provide a path for unemployed local job seekers while supporting local economic growth for industrial businesses.
"SIEDC's workforce program SI Works fits perfectly into our efforts to improve the lives of Staten Islanders," said Steve Klein, CEO of Northfield Bank during a press conference at the Historic Old Bermuda Inn, Rossville.. "It represents an opportunity to help the unemployed and underemployed residents of our community by connecting them with hiring agents at local businesses."
STORM WATER MANAGEMENT
A $50,000 grant from Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) will be used to a implement storm water management program -- which will include bioswales, rain gardens, trickling filters, slow sand filters and treatment ponds among others.
With the support of Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D-Mid-Island) and members of the West Shore Business Improvement District board of directors, the SIEDC was able to secure the grant to design a system to provide critical relief for businesses in the area that require significant infrastructure investment.
The SIEDC also announced it was selected to become the managing entity of the New Dorp Business Improvement District (BID), which is the second BID managed by the organization.
"Since 1993, SIEDC has been at the forefront of growing and enhancing businesses on Staten Island," said Cesar J. Claro, president and CEO of the SIEDC. "Today, with the announcement of three exciting initiatives, we will continue to help the business community in new and valuable ways."