The Women’s Enterprise Development Center (WEDC), a not-for-profit micro-enterprise development program that helps women achieve economic self-sufficiency through small business development, has received a grant of $15,000 from KeyBank Foundation, the charitable foundation of KeyBank. Focused on supporting entrepreneurial training and small business development, KeyBank’s funds will be directed toward WEDC’s Entrepreneur Growth Lab, which assists entrepreneurs with navigating all aspects of starting, running, and growing their business. The Lab provides high quality training programs, advisory services, and access to capital for small business owners and entrepreneurs as a means of generating economic growth in Westchester County and the Hudson Valley.
“Support from Key Bank is instrumental in driving the success of our Entrepreneur Growth Lab,” said WEDC’s CEO Nikki Hahn. “Their commitment not only fuels the resources and support that help early-stage companies grow but also strengthens our broader mission to cultivate a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. This partnership underscores the critical role of financial institutions in empowering aspiring small business owners from underserved communities, helping to create pathways to success and economic resilience where it’s needed most.”
WEDC serves more than 1,200 clients a year with a primary focus on supporting low-to-moderate income women and minorities interested in starting or growing a business. WEDC is known for recognizing its clients’ unique needs not only as business owners but often as individuals facing personal challenges on their journeys to entrepreneurship. In addition, one of WEDC’s main offerings is to provide MWBE training and certification assistance. WEDC offers workshops for completing MWBE certification with New York State and is committed to making MWBE certification more accessible to BIPOC communities that we serve by offering programs in English and Spanish.
“KeyBank is committed to supporting initiatives that drive economic empowerment and financial stability for underserved communities,” said John Manginelli, KeyBank Market President for Hudson Valley and Metro NY. “Our grant to the Women’s Enterprise Development Center underscores our dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and creating opportunities that help women build successful businesses and stronger communities.”
KeyBank Foundation grants are part of a $40 billion commitment for lending and investments across Key’s national footprint established in 2017 and supporting affordable housing and community development projects, home, and small business lending in low- and-moderate income communities, and philanthropic efforts targeted toward education, workforce development, and safe, vital neighborhoods. For more information, visit www.Key.com/Foundation.
