Coordinators:

Niagara University ~ Dr. Deborah Curtis, Director, Hospitality Training and Research Center

Community ~ TBA

Specific Issues/Barriers:

• New regional economy
• High unemployment
• Lack of education/training
• Lack of private investment
• Shrinking tax base
• Political instability
• Uninformed constituency
• Contamination of land, buildings and equipment
• Unused manufacturing facilities
• Development projects either stalled or never completed

Proposed Outreach

• Provide targeted technical assistance to small and family-owned businesses
• Link underserved residents with training and educational opportunities to gain entrance and/or advancement in high-need service sector jobs
• Provision of financial services to residents and businesses including tax aid, budget analysis, and general financial literacy

Proposed Research

• Evaluation of Economic Development and Employment Activities

Impact Areas:

• Job Training
• Economic Development
• Homeownership

End Results:

1. Family-owned and small businesses in the target area will achieve a greater level of survival and growth;
2. More residents will obtain and retain employment; and,
3. Residents will be better able to purchase, retain and maintain their homes and neighborhoods.