Bay Path partners with Legacy Economic Development Corporation to offer first annual Micro Business Conference to area entrepreneurs

Earlier this month, Bay Path University and the Springfield-based Legacy Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) welcomed more than 75 attendees to the first annual Massachusetts Micro Business Conference, held in the Philip H. Ryan Center at Bay Path University. The LEDC helps local entrepreneurs and businesses in the Springfield region access training, grants, and resources to foster business growth and community development in Western Massachusetts.

The event, a collaboration between Bay Path, the LEDC, Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) and MassDevelopment brought together members of the small business community of Western Massachusetts. Bay Path faculty from the School of Management and Technology led several conference sessions, sharing practical guidance on topics including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, financing, and negotiation. The conference also introduced participants to educational opportunities designed to help entrepreneurs continue developing their businesses. 

The conference was conceived by LEDC founder and director Andrew Melendez, who also serves as a trustee on the Bay Path University Board of Trustees. "Our goal was to create a space where entrepreneurs could gain practical knowledge, build connections, and learn about resources available to help their businesses grow," said Melendez. "Bay Path was a natural partner because of its commitment to workforce development, innovation, and supporting the economic vitality of our region."  

Among the attendees was Bay Path business alumna Sarai Perez, owner of Sarai's Events Venue, who developed her business plan as a student in the University's Bachelor of Science in Business Administration before launching her business.

"Attending the Summit was an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and continue learning," said Perez. "I'm grateful that my experience at Bay Path gave me the confidence and foundation to turn classroom projects into a thriving business."

Participants who completed the full-day conference also became eligible for an opportunity to continue developing their business ideas through a partnership between the Latino Professional Leadership Institute and Bay Path University's School of Management and Technology. The program includes business plan development and the potential to earn graduate-level academic credit through an entrepreneurial intensive program.

The conference also highlighted opportunities available through Bay Path University's School of Management and Technology, including undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs designed for working professionals and aspiring business leaders. Organizers said they are exploring future collaborations that would continue connecting entrepreneurs with educational and professional development resources.