Schoharie County Invites Community Members to “SPARC: Igniting Prosperity” Event

COBLESKILL — Schoharie County leaders and economic development partners are proud to  announce SPARC: Igniting Prosperity, an upcoming event during Economic Development Week designed to bring together  residents, business owners, local stakeholders and elected officials to discuss ongoing economic development initiatives,  strengthen connections, and drive economic growth across the region. 

“SPARC: Igniting Prosperity” is a ground-breaking economic development forum focused on how community partners  are building a strong, resilient Schoharie County. This first-of-its-kind event was created by members of SPARC to showcase  the many important initiatives shaping the future of Schoharie County. Attendees at this inaugural event will have the  opportunity to hear from local economic development leaders and a discussion panel on regional opportunities and strategies to  support businesses. The forum will take place on Thursday, May 7th at 6:30PM at Cobleskill-Richmondville Highschool. 

Schoharie County Partners for Advancing Resilient Communities (SPARC) was a group formed in recognition that economic  development in Schoharie County needs to be a collaborative effort. SPARC strives to make life better for the county’s current  and future generations through the collaboration and advancement of economic development projects. SPARC includes the  current members of the Schoharie County Industrial Development Agency (SCIDA), Destination Marketing Corporation  (DMC), SUNY Cobleskill’s Institute for Rural Vitality (IRV), Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation (SEEC), Schoharie  County Office of Agricultural Development, and Schoharie County Office of Economic Development. 

“This event is about celebrating the great work happening in economic development in Schoharie County,” said Bryan Best,  Schoharie County Administrator, “SPARC is providing an opportunity to share ideas, celebrate our strengths, and identify  actionable steps that will help Schoharie County thrive.” 

The event will feature: 

• Interactive discussion on economic development and community revitalization 

• Opportunities for community members to ask questions and share input 

• Networking with local businesses, entrepreneurs, and leaders 

Participating panelists include: 

Denise Kelly, Former Mayor, Village of Sharon Springs Middleburgh Coffee Co. 

Wayward Lane Brewing Schoharie County Industrial Development Agency Schoharie County Office of Agricultural Development Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation The Institute of Rural Vitality at SUNY Cobleskill Schoharie County Economic Development Destination Marketing Corporation Werner Hampel, Town of Cobleskill Supervisor 

Event Details: 

What: SPARC: Igniting Prosperity 

When: May 7th, 2026 at 6:30PM 

Where: Cobleskill-Richmondville High school, Cobleskill, New York 

Who Should Attend: Residents, business owners, elected officials, municipal leaders, community organizations, and  anyone interested in the future of Schoharie County 

Community members are encouraged to attend and help shape the county’s path forward. Whether you are a lifelong resident, a  new entrepreneur, or simply passionate about your community, your voice is an important part of this conversation. 

For more information or to RSVP, please contact economicdev@schohariecounty-ny.gov.