Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I apply to Ascend Long Island?
Ascend Long Island is a business development program to help businesses build capacity with growing customers, strengthening management strategies, accessing capital, and regional contracting opportunities. If you are selected for Ascend Long Island, you will also become part of a peer network of successful diverse entrepreneurs and will be connecting to other regional opportunities to grow your business.
What is the revenue requirement for the business?
Businesses should have gross revenues over $1,000,000. If you do not meet this revenue requirement, but are still interested, please reach out to us as Hofstra University administers other programming that supports business development.
What type of business sectors should apply?
All business are eligible to apply regardless of sector.
Where will the workshops be held?
Will use a hybrid model of in-person and virtual instruction.
Who leads the workshops?
Professors from the Frank G. Zarb School of Business, BOC Capital Corp, procurement officials from our Anchor Partner Council, and seasoned entrepreneurs lead these sessions.
What is the timeframe for the workshops/classes?
Twelve weeks of classes will be held mid-September through December 2021.
If I participate in the program, how will I get contracts?
It is important to note that while we do not guarantee that each cohort member will receive a contract because of their participation in the Ascend Long Island program, we are building a dynamic network of support for MWBEs to thrive in. We continuously work with our Anchor Partner Council for pipeline development and procurement engagement in an effort to secure viable contracting opportunities for the cohort members. Additionally, cohort members are eligible to participate in an exclusive procurement conference with our Anchor Partner Council.
I am not MWBE Certified. How would you help me to become MWBE certified?
Cohort members can receive technical assistance from the Entrepreneurship Assistance Center at Hofstra University with New York State MWBE Certification if they are eligible. Companies that receive technical assistance form the EAC also receive expedited review from New York State Empire State Development.
Do I have to attend all of the courses?
Your company should be represented in each class. However, you may designate one or two people, in a decision-making role(s) at your company, to attend the workshops.
Is there a program fee?
The program fee for Ascend Long Island is $600, but the fee has been waived for the 2021 Cohort.