ACCORD successfully hosted its 2026 Business Plan Competition at the Solutions Hub, showcasing local entrepreneurial talent and fostering economic growth. The high-stakes event was made possible through grant funding from the Empire State Development Entrepreneurship Assistance Center Business Plan Competition Pilot Program. The competition brought together businesses from across the region, each presenting comprehensive strategies to launch or expand their business ventures.

Community encouraged to support local food pantries as demand grows BELMONT, NY — Many individuals and families across Allegany County were struggling before and are now faced with even more pressure as the cost of food, housing, transportation, and other basic necessities continues to rise. At the same time, programs designed to help bridge the gap, such as SNAP and other support services, remain in limbo. In Allegany County, more than 5,200 individuals currently rely on SN

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- October 21, 2025 Belmont, NY — According to a recent announcement from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) and its Office of Head Start (OHS), more than $61 million in supplemental nutrition funding has been awarded to strengthen nutrition services, promote healthy eating habits, and expand access to nutrient-dense foods across more than 290 Head Start programs nationwide,