Rochester – Today, Assemblymember Sarah Clark announced a partnership with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses to recruit exceptional entrepreneurs in the Rochester area for their nationally renowned program. The partnership is part of an ongoing effort by Assemblymember Clark and Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses to provide critical support and resources to New York’s pandemic-stricken small business community.

 A February 2021 survey of nearly 1,300 of the 10,000 Small Businesses program alumni showcases a stark reality of how small businesses continue to struggle during the pandemic. The survey provided a hard glimpse into the life of a small business owner, citing that 50% of small business owners have dipped into their personal savings and 58% have foregone paying themselves. The partnership marks a critical step towards investing essential resources to support small businesses in need across New York and put them on a path towards success.

The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program provides a premier business education, unmatched support services and critical access to capital for growth-oriented entrepreneurs. 67% of alumni increase revenues and 47% create new jobs all within the first 6 months of graduation. The program is free for participants and operates across the country, serving over 10,000 businesses in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

“Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses are looking for the best and brightest entrepreneurs to join their nationally renowned program – and they have come to the right place. Rochester is a growing hub for small businesses, including a growing number of minority-owned businesses, family-owned shops and multiple new tech startups. Our small businesses were nearly decimated by COVID-19 and my office is prepared to invest the needed resources to help them bounce back stronger than ever. We’re thrilled to work alongside Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses to support Rochester entrepreneurs in taking their business to the next level." said Assemblymember Sarah Clark.

“Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses searches for small businesses who want to go big. Right here in Rochester, we’ve seen firsthand entrepreneurs who are ready to grow, contribute to their community, and make an impact. Beyond being economic engines, they represent the best of the Empire State – aspiring New Yorkers driven by endless persistence to turn an idea into reality. Together with Assemblymember Sarah Clark, we’re thrilled to help play a role in supporting the small business community in Rochester.” – Jessica Taylor, National Director of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses

“I entered Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses determined to grow my business and graduated with tools, resources, and a new network to help make it happen. I was able to grow with like-minded entrepreneurs driven to give back to their communities and elevate their small businesses. When COVID-19 hit and threatened our businesses, the program educated us on how to pivot, and even grow. For any Rochester small business owner hungry to grow, this is the program for you.” – Laurie Elkin, owner of Rochester-based AV Science and 2020 alumna of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses

On May 3^rd, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses will hold an interactive orientation for small businesses nominated by Assemblymember Sarah Clark to learn more about the program. To learn more about Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and apply, visit 10ksbapply.com.