Small Business

Fueling Long Island’s Future: A Blueprint for Smart, Sustainable Growth

terrialessimiceliLeave a comment
Photo caption: I was joined by (from left) Joe Campolo, Managing Partner, Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP and HIA-LI Board Member; HIA-LI Board Chair, Standard Advisors Group CEO, and Babylon Town Councilman, Anthony Manetta; Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter; Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim; Suffolk County IIDA Executive Director and CEO Kelly Murphy; and, TRITEC Real Estate Company Executive VP and Partner Jimmy Coughlan.

At HIA-LI’s recent Economic Development Symposium, we welcomed a room full of business leaders, public officials, and visionaries who share a common belief: that Long Island’s economic future can—and must—be shaped intentionally, inclusively, and strategically.

The forum underscored what we already know to be true: sustainable economic growth doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built on a foundation of smart investments, bold leadership, and the willingness to rethink the systems we’ve inherited.

Building Livable Communities Through Collaboration

One consistent theme that emerged was the critical importance of collaboration between government and the private sector. Angie Carpenter, Supervisor of the Town of Islip, made it clear that responsible economic development must go hand-in-hand with quality-of-life investments. Her town is not only reimagining downtown Central Islip through a $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative but also leveraging the economic power of MacArthur Airport to create jobs and attract investment. With five airlines and 18 non-stop destinations—including new service from JetBlue and Avelo—Islip is proving that modern infrastructure is essential to regional vitality.

Economic Development with a Human Face

At the Suffolk County IDA, Kelly Murphy is driving investment that is both data-informed and community-centered. Her team helped generate over $214 million in payroll last year, through projects that didn’t just create jobs—they created careers. The IDA’s focus on “Long Island First” encourages companies to hire locally and reinvest in the region, from expanding manufacturers at the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge to family-owned businesses like Casanova Meats. These aren’t abstract numbers; they’re direct investments in families, futures, and neighborhoods.

That focus on workforce development is aligned with the region’s recent progress. According to data recently announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, Long Island added 91,000 non-farm jobs between 2020 and 2024—an impressive 7.1% increase. Healthcare led the way with more than 24,000 new positions, while construction rose 10%, creating over 8,000 jobs. Even more encouraging: unemployment dropped from 4.5% to 3.8%, a signal that targeted investments are paying off across the board.

Solving the Housing Crisis: A Prerequisite for Economic Growth

No conversation about Long Island’s future can avoid the issue of housing. Jimmy Coughlan, Executive Vice President at TRITEC Real Estate, laid out the stark reality: of counties in the U.S. with a population of at least 1.5 million, Suffolk County is the second largest by area and by population, but dead last nationwide in new housing starts. Nassau County, right next door, doesn’t fare much better. Both counties lag behind high-growth regions like Charlotte, Nashville, and Raleigh—places that have embraced new development to attract and retain talent.

The consequences here are clear: young professionals are being priced out, businesses can’t attract the workforce they need, and our region’s growth potential is being constrained. The housing market, like any market, is a function of supply and demand—and on Long Island, we’re simply not producing enough supply.

But Coughlan didn’t come with just problems—he brought solutions. Smart growth. Transit-oriented development. Streamlined approvals. Flexible affordability mandates that make projects financially viable. TRITEC’s work in Bay Shore and Ronkonkoma proves that when developers and local governments work together, vibrant communities follow.

A Model for Regional Growth: The Long Island Innovation Park

In the Town of Smithtown, Supervisor Ed Wehrheim has made the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge a centerpiece of his economic development agenda. The park now supports over 55,000 jobs, contributes $13 billion in economic output, and houses leading companies in sectors like aerospace, biopharma, IT, and advanced manufacturing.

Wehrheim’s vision for a “live, work, play” district—with mixed-use zoning, modern infrastructure, and expanded sewer capacity—is already attracting the younger workforce Long Island needs to stay competitive. His town’s track record—AAA bond rating, zero fiscal stress, thriving downtowns—is a model for how proactive leadership fuels prosperity.

A Call to Action

At HIA-LI, we believe in the power of partnerships. What we heard at this year’s Economic Development Symposium wasn’t just a list of projects or statistics—it was a blueprint for how to move forward as a region. It starts with embracing innovation, investing in infrastructure, building housing for every generation, and supporting the businesses that power our economy.

Long Island’s future isn’t written yet. But with bold thinking and shared purpose, we’re well on our way to building it—together.

HIA-LI Business Achievement Awards: Celebrating Long Island’s Finest

terrialessimiceliLeave a comment
Photo caption (clockwise from upper left): Jeff Reingold, COO, Contract Pharmacal Corp., “Large Business” winner; Jay Demetriou, President, LGC Studios, “Small Business” winner; Billy Hatzichristos, Founder and Owner, Native Ceuticals, “Rookie of the Year” winner; special guest speaker Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone; Jennifer Marks, Long Island Market Team Lead, JP Morgan Chase & Co., “Leadership” winner; and, Karen Boorshstein, CEO, Family Service League, “Not for Profit” winner.

The Business Achievement Awards – our very own “Academy Awards” event – holds a special place in my heart. We were at the Crest Hollow last week to shine a light on the amazing businesses and organizations that represent the essence of Long Island. Each of them, from varied industries, share a similar optimism about the future. Each one of them value and celebrate their people. And they all constantly innovate, showcasing a deep-seated commitment to the Long Island community at-large.

HIA-LI stands as one of the recognized voices for Long Island businesses, a powerful force in regional and economic development. As many of you know, our voice echoes beyond the bounds of this event. We advocate passionately the Nassau-Suffolk region and for the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge (LI-IPH) with its impressive economic output of $13 billion. Yes, billion!

But none of that would be possible without our committed board members, our dedicated staff, and our invaluable volunteers. Every event, every initiative is a testament to their hard work.

Carol A. Allen, Board Chair of HIA-LI and CEO of People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union, has been one of those stalwart supporters. Reflecting on her two-decade association with HIA-LI, Carol remarked, “Seeing the growth and resilience of the businesses that make up our community has been inspiring. HIA-LI has become a significant force, thanks to the collaboration of our exceptional board members and the unwavering commitment of our organization’s staff and leadership.”

Speaking of commitment, I was filled with gratitude to introduce someone who’s been a tireless advocate for our community – Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. Elected in November 2011, Steve has been more than just an effective executive, he’s been someone who genuinely cares, not just for businesses but for every individual on Long Island.

Due to term limits, Steve’s tenure as County Executive is drawing to a close, but his impact will be felt for generations. Reflecting on his transformative initiatives, Steve shared, “The transformation of Ronkonkoma into a transportation and innovation hub, supported by state and federal investments, signifies a new era for Long Island’s economic future. The upcoming Long Island Convention Center symbolizes our region’s ambition and potential.” Beyond infrastructural projects, he has always emphasized the importance of unity in political progress, noting the invaluable lessons of, “collaborating across party lines.”

And talking about collaboration and leadership, in the corporate world, JP Morgan Chase & Co. stands out for its commitment to the community of Long Island. Jennifer Marks, their Long Island Market Team Lead, embodies this spirit. With 17 years at the firm, Jennifer, alongside her dedicated teams, has been at the forefront of ensuring JP Morgan Chase gives back. Their philanthropic initiatives and volunteer leadership groups have left an indelible mark on Long Island, from packing food with Island Harvest to supporting military veterans. Their efforts, driven by the goal of inclusive economic growth and community support, underscore why JP Morgan Chase was a very worthy recipient of the 2023 Leadership Award. We applaud them for their unwavering commitment to the bi-county region.

The spotlight also shined on the Large Business category. Contract Pharmacal Corporation (CPC), led by their Chief Operating Officer, Jeff Reingold, has been a stalwart in the Long Island business community since 1971. Known for producing high-quality pharmaceuticals, their footprint in the industry is unquestionable. With 12 facilities in the LI-IPH, and producing almost 15 billion units annually, CPC epitomizes dedication to quality and teamwork. Jeff’s emphasis on the family-like spirit of the company along with their commitment to innovation and responsibility resonates deeply.

In the Small Business category, winner Jay Demetriou, President of LGC Studios, graciously accepted the award for the company’s steadfast growth and notable accomplishments. Highlighting his 30-year journey with the firm, which was founded by his father Greg, Jay emphasized the collective efforts of the LGC Studios team. With exciting announcements in the offing, Jay asserted LGC Studios’ ambitions for the future.

Karen Boorshtein, CEO of the Family Service League, the winner for the second time in the Not-for-Profit category, spoke passionately about the organization’s crisis services, specifically Joe’s Project — a program initiated after the tragic loss of a staff member’s son to suicide. Karen celebrated her dedicated staff and highlighted their unwavering commitment to assisting those grappling with mental health issues. With a deep focus on early intervention and mental health support, Family Service League offers a lifeline to many, including through their 24/7 Crisis Stabilization Center.

In the Rookie of the Year category, winner Billy Hatzichristos, Founder and Owner of Native Ceuticals, was enthusiastic about the growth and success of his hemp CBD business. Stressing the holistic health benefits of hemp and CBD, Billy touched on the transformative effects these products have had on a variety of ailments. He urged the community to embrace alternative, natural treatments, and to support local businesses that foster community health and wellness.

It’s important to recognize business excellence on Long Island, especially in these times. Congratulations to all the award recipients and the immense impact they’ve made on the bi-county region. We look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of these influential businesses and organizations.

Government Offers Immediate Funding to Promote Business Success

terrialessimiceliLeave a comment
From left: Rosalie Drago, Commissioner, Suffolk County Department of Labor; Kelly Murphy, Deputy Executive Director, Suffolk County IDA, and; Cara Longworth, Regional Director, Empire State Development.

The public sector stands ready to provide immediate financial assistance to help Long Island companies achieve their goals and fulfill their workforce needs.

HIA-LI works closely with officials at all levels of government to bring these resources to the attention of our members and to help members take advantage of a wide range of public-sector assistance programs.

Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with three government officials whose agencies have an outstanding track record of success in providing financial support to local businesses. They are:

These three entities are true partners of Long Island business. Let’s take a quick look at what each has to offer:

Empire State Development isthe state’s main arm for economic development. It encourages business growth and investment, job growth, and a diversified economy through loans, grants, tax credits, marketing, minority/women-owned business support, workforce development, technical support, export assistance, COVID support, and other business-friendly tools.

Long Island’s Regional Economic Development Council channels State resources pursuant to a regional strategic plan. And to make the process highly efficient, Cara’s office uses a “Consolidated Funding Application.” It enables businesses to tap into multiple sources of funds through a single application

The Suffolk County Department of Labor supports business growth through recruitment services and hiring incentives, and also with economic and labor market data. The department serves workers directly through job training, job development, placement, and supportive services.

While Empire State Development can provide funding for businesses to create jobs, the County Labor Department’s key role is to draw talent to companies and to get them ready for work.

Rosalie wants to hear from business about gaps in the workforce. Her agency’s funds are then used to train the talent pool. She works with local training providers – including local colleges and trade schools – to train existing workers and the emerging workforce for available jobs.

The Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency serves the entire county except the towns of Brookhaven, Islip, Riverhead, and Babylon, which have their own IDAs. Suffolk IDA promotes and attracts job and recreational opportunities. It targets companies wishing to remain or expand in Suffolk, or to move into the county. The types of industries the IDA generally helps are in manufacturing, distribution, R&D, and warehousing in addition to energy projects and multifamily housing.

Kelly’s agency, which often enhances its aid packages with incentives from PSEG and National Grid, offers three main forms of assistance: reductions in the mortgage recording tax, sales tax exemptions, and property tax exemptions.

For a link to the video of my conversation with these three remarkable women, click here. You can also listen to the conversation on my podcast, “Business Steps Up,” by clicking here.

And here’s their contact information:

Empire State Development (ESD)
Cara Longworth, Regional Director
LIREDC@esd.ny.gov
631-435-0717

Suffolk County Department of Labor (DOL)
Rosalie Drago, Commissioner
rosalie.drago@suffolkcountyny.gov
diane.lachapelle@suffolkcountyny.gov
631-853-6600

Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency (IDA)
Kelly Murphy, Deputy Executive Director
kelly.murphy@suffolkcountyny.gov
631-853-4802

I urge HIA-LI members and all local businesses to learn about the financing and services these agencies offer and to contact them. They really want you to hear from you!

Folks, this is “money on the table” that will help your business succeed. Take advantage of it!

Companies Want to See “Talent in Action”

terrialessimiceliLeave a comment

Small business border“You know what bosses like even more than employees who get their work done? Employees who don’t even have to be told what to do, because they’ll create value on their own accord,” says Eric Talbot, Strategic Account Manager at National Business Capital & Services in Bohemia.  That was his advice to young people – particularly Millennials and Generation Zs – who are a growing part of today’s emerging workforce.

“Customer service is not a department – it’s an attitude,” added Gregg Pajak, President and Founder of the WizdomOne Group in Islandia.  “Service is about making things easier and saving people time and money. Experience is about making things memorable and engaging and creating a desire to linger.

“The best experiences,” Pajak adds, “are those you wish would last forever.”

These were just two pieces of sage advice that was part of an HIA-LI Small Business Task Force Open Forum titled, “Is There a Difference Between the Generations?” held on November 7 at Simplay in Hauppauge.  Moderated by Rev. Joseph Garofalo, Outreach Pastor at Island Christian Church, the panel included five distinguished business leaders: Gary Barello, Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Organizational Development at Biodex Medical Systems, Inc. in Shirley; Scott Maskin, CEO and Co-Founder at SuNation Solar Systems, Inc. in Ronkonkoma; Teresa Ferraro, President of East/West Industries Inc. in Ronkonkoma; along with Talbot and Pajak.

Panelists were asked to provide their thoughts on a range of topics including meeting deadlines, employee initiative, work-life balance, and performance reviews.

According to Gary Barello, while there are differences in the way generations view the workplace, “employers have to be careful not to generalize.  We have to avoid stereotyping by closing our eyes when a new person joins our team and say, ‘what does this person have to offer?’”

Barello added, “Just like ethnicity and gender, business leaders like us need to avoid labeling – we need to give each person the opportunity to show who they are.”

“Each scenario is case by case,” added Talbot.  “You never know what someone has going on right outside the office.”  However, if someone was consistently submitting projects and reports exactly at deadline with no time to spare, it would “raise some red flags” and question whether the employee could “handle the responsibility of bigger projects with tighter deadlines.”

Pajak added that younger employees need to take initiative and show management how they can build teamwork and impact the bottom line.  “Companies don’t want sculptures of talent,” he said. “They want to see the talent in action.”

These Open Forums are a direct result of feedback from our membership, 80 percent of which are small businesses, a figure which mirrors the overall Long Island business community.  We understand that small businesses have their own set of unique challenges, and discussions over the years centered on how our organization could provide better guidance and support for these companies.  One result was the institution of these Small Business Task Force Open Forums, now in its third year.

A special thanks, as always, to Rita DiStefano, Chair of the Small Business Task Force and Director of HR Consulting at Portnoy, Messinger, Pearl and Associates, Inc. in Jericho and her task force members who work tirelessly to bring progressive, relevant programming to our membership.

Finally, stay tuned for future Small Business Task Force Open Forums, complimentary to HIA-LI members.