NORWICH – Commerce Chenango in collaboration with sfcu will host an ‘Introduction to MWBE Certification’ as part two of the Entrepreneurial Roundtable Series. The March 30, 2021, virtual event will feature a number of speakers who will provide information on the 'what, why and how' of MWBE Certification.

Gina Hayduk is the SBDC’s Government Contracting Coordinator. She offers advisement and expertise to local businesses on the fundamentals of government contracting at the local, state, and federal levels. She also assists businesses in identifying bidding opportunities, understanding the procurement process, and applying for various certifications. Hayduk brings a strong background in project management, communications, and engineering, having worked for over 28 years for telecommunications companies. She holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Clarkson University and a master’s in business administration from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Robert (Bud) Sweet is currently the Regional Director for Empire State Development’s Southern Tier Region (STR). This is his second stint with ESD. He was the deputy regional director for the STR from 2000-2007. Prior to returning to ESD, he was employed for a national firm that handled economic and community development, housing, and professional training throughout the U.S. During this role, he was selected as the 2011 NDC Trainer of the Year as an instructor of the four courses that comprise NDC’s Economic Development Finance Certification Program.