Binghamton Economic Development Office - BEDO
MISSION STATEMENT
In order to further our goal of a desirable, safe city in which all residents can live, work, study, worship, play and have opportunities to improve the quality of their lives, the Departments of Planning & Economic Development (DPD) are committed to a progressive vision of building and strengthening our diverse community by providing government services that foster economic vitality, sustainable growth, civic engagement, citizen participation and neighborhood stability.
In support of our mission, DPD works in partnership with citizens, stakeholders in the public and private sectors, and other city departments to:
- Strengthen the quality of life in Binghamton’s neighborhoods;
- Preserve and develop decent, safe and affordable housing opportunities and increase homeownership;
- Maintain and improve the vitality of the Downtown and neighborhood business districts;
- Encourage a thriving and sustainable small business sector;
- Foster job growth, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities;
- Increase civic engagement and citizen participation, especially among Binghamton’s youth;
- Support the delivery of efficient and vibrant community services; and
- Revitalize Binghamton’s use of the rivers and waterfront areas.
Binghamton Means Business!
The Economic Development professionals at BEDO provide a comprehensive array of services to help business start-up, growth and relocation to the City. BEDO participates in the Greater Binghamton Coalition of Economic Development--professionals working together to tailor the best possible incentive packages for our customers.
Our webpages also offer a variety of economic development resources. Our newest page is the BEDO Online Business Guide.
Resources for start-ups and established business:
Siting Assistance
BEDO staff maintains and updates a detailed database of available properties to assist interested developers and business owners looking to expand or to find tenants. (With the advent of the City's improved GIS function, location assistance have been greatly enhanced.) Services include:
- Information about available square footage, sprinkler systems, docks and communication infrastructure is available.
- Photographs of the buildings and maps identifying the site and neighboring businesses, as well as proximity to major thoroughfares.
- Contacts with business owners for a walk-through for potential tenants.
Low Interest Loan Programs
The Binghamton Local Development Corporation - BLDC offers a series of low/no interest loans to support start-up and growth of qualified companies. For more information on these programs go the BLDC web-page.
UDAG and 108 Loans
The City can provide financial assistance through these resources for businesses which require greater financing than available through the BLDC. The Office of Economic Development currently manages two 108 loans and eight UDAG loans.
Partnership Facilitation
BEDO maintains a strong working relationship with all area financial institutions, the Greater Binghamton Coalition, the Broome County Industrial Development Agency, the Small Business Administration, Empire State Development Corporation, and other resource providers. We bring these partners to the table to develop the best opportunities for your company in the areas of finance, training and competitiveness.
Technical Assistance
BEDO provides start-up and existing businesses with technical support including referrals to a variety of service providers for specific help with business plan development, entrepreneurship workshops, networking opportunities, and applications for State grants including training and other benefits.
Business Visitation Program
BEDO staff meets with City enterprises regularly to learn capabilities plans for the future, needs and ideas. As a result, BEDO often brings compatible businesses together to form synergistic partnerships and respond to opportunities. The Office provides Binghamton businesses with leads on solicitations for business in New York State.
Environmental Expertise
In conjunction with City Planning, the office provides information on Brownfield recovery programs and environmental cleanup/remediation for property owners. The City actively develops partnerships to seek State and Federal funding for rehabilitation of Brownfield sites.
Assistance with other City of Binghamton Departments
The Office of Economic Development facilitates your interactions within City Hall. We provide you with access and advocacy with zoning, code enforcement, public safety, assessment, public works, finance, and administration.
Business District Associations
BEDO conducts surveys in neighborhood business districts to determine their interest and assists in organizing and supporting Business Associations where there is interest.
Marketing
BEDO staff create marketing pieces for specific properties, districts, and business building programs to attract investors, customers, and visitors.
Business opportunities in the City of Binghamton means a creative approach to meeting your needs, customer focus through accessibility and facilitation, and a continuing concern for the health of your business.
Strengthening Neighborhood Commercial Districts
Commercial districts are essential to healthy neighborhoods, and we work closely with and support a growing number of Binghamton business associations. Listed below are associations (relevant contact information and meeting dates are pending):
- First Ward Business Association
- Downtown Binghamton Business Association
- South Bridge Business Association
- Northside Binghamton Business Association
- Westside Binghamton Business Association
