Empire State Development Brings Southern Tier Small Business Tour to Tioga and Schuyler Counties

The Tioga County Chamber of Commerce recently announced that two stops of the 2026 Southern Tier Small Business Tour, hosted by Empire State Development, will take place in the Southern Tier this May, highlighting key industries that continue to shape the region’s economy. 

The two-part series will feature industry-focused discussions and networking opportunities designed to support business growth, strengthen regional collaboration, and connect entrepreneurs and industry leaders with state resources and economic development partners. 

For the tour schedule, on May 27, Advanced Manufacturing and Agriculture will be presented at Tioga Downs Casino Resort, located on West River Road in Nichols, New York.

Hosted by Empire State Development, the event will bring together regional stakeholders, economic development leaders, and business owners to discuss strategies, share challenges, and explore NYS grant programs designed to strengthen this sector of our local economy, wrote Sabrina Henriques, CEO and president of the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce, in the announcement.

“The major focus of this tour is hearing directly from you,” Henriques added.

Following breakfast and a moderated panel discussion, they will host breakout listening sessions. 

The May 27 event begins at 8:30 a.m. with a light breakfast and concludes at noon with closing remarks and next steps. 

You can RSVP for this portion of the tour by visiting https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/2f00XUxGaM.

The May 28 portion of the tour, hosted by Empire State Development and focusing on Tourism and the Visitor Economy, will take place at Watkins Glen’s Harbor Hotel.

You can learn more and RSVP for that portion of the tour by visiting https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/zCJ8mzAvNW.

“This is an exciting opportunity to showcase Tioga County and the Southern Tier as a destination for innovation, business growth, agriculture, and tourism,” said Henriques. “We are grateful to Empire State Development and the Southern Tier regional partners for recognizing the importance of hosting these conversations throughout our region, including Tioga County for the first time.” 

The Southern Tier Small Business Tour is part of Empire State Development’s continued efforts to engage directly with businesses and regional stakeholders while highlighting the industries driving economic development across New York State.