ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF SUCCESS | 2026

October 27, 2026
Lehman Center for the Performing Arts | Lehman College

The Bronx Small Business Development Center (SBDC) proudly celebrated its 3rd Annual Celebration of Success on October 27, 2026.

Under this year’s theme, Our Bronx – Our Brand, the celebration brought together entrepreneurs, community leaders, influencers, and business support organizations to recognize the people and businesses shaping the borough’s identity and economic future.

From recognizing outstanding entrepreneurs to exploring the power of community influence and local storytelling, the event celebrated the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit that make the Bronx unique.

EVENT GALLERY – Make sure to tag us! @BronxSBDC

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2026 AWARDEES

This year’s celebration recognized six outstanding Bronx SBDC clients and one additional Client Spotlight, highlighting businesses making a difference across diverse industries.

LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY PRESENCE

The celebration brought together representatives from the New York State Small Business Development Center (NYSBDC) network, Lehman College, financial institutions, and leading Bronx business organizations.

Among the distinguished attendees were Sonya Smith New York State SBDC State Director, Jorge Silva-Puras Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Success at Lehman College, Dr. Dene Hurley Dean of the School of Business, Dr. Azadeh Keivani Dean of the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, Lisa Sorin President of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce, Winston Peters President of the Bronx Economic Development Corporation (BXEDC), and Andrea Giraldo Vice President & Senior Business Consultant, JPMorgan Chase.

Their presence reflected the strong institutional and community commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, expanding opportunities for small businesses, and strengthening the Bronx business ecosystem.

The event also welcomed Lehman College faculty and staff, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and resource partners whose continued collaboration helps advance small business growth throughout the borough.

OUR BRONX, OUR BRAND
Influencers & Small Business Panel

A featured highlight of this year’s celebration was the Our Bronx, Our Brand: Influencers & Small Business Panel, bringing together influential voices from media, tourism, entertainment, and the local business community.

The discussion explored the power of local identity, storytelling, digital influence, and community engagement in elevating the Bronx’s image and helping small businesses connect with wider audiences.

PANELISTS

• Anthony Ramirez II | From the Bronx | The Bronx Beer Hall
• Julius Drake | Bronx Tourism Council
• Rhina Valentin | BronxNet TV | La Reina del Barrio
• Amaurys Grullon | The Bronx Native
• Diego León | Dandy in the Bronx

Thank you to our panelists for sharing their perspectives and highlighting the importance of authentic storytelling and community representation.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS & COMMUNITY PARTNERS

The celebration also created opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with resource partners, financial institutions, and community organizations.

Event Sponsor
Chase for Business – Coaching for Impact

We extend our appreciation to Lehman College, Lehman College School of Business, School of Continuing & Professional Studies, Bronx Chamber of Commerce, Bronx Business Initiative Corporation (BIC), Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (BXEDC), NYC Small Business Services, ARIVA, Bronx Tourism Council, TD Bank, Community Capital New York, Pursuit, Spring Bank, and Ponce Bank.

Thank you for your continued commitment to Bronx entrepreneurs and the growth of our local business community.

State of Small Business Panel
Presented by Chase for Business

The State of Small Business Panel brought together business and financial professionals to discuss the challenges, resources, and opportunities shaping the small business landscape. The conversation highlighted the importance of access to capital, business development resources, and community partnerships in helping entrepreneurs strengthen and grow their businesses.

PANELISTS:

• Veronica Colman — Senior Vice President, Business Development, Community Capital New York
• Vanessa Villanueva — President, The Moravilla Team
• Frances Castillo — President, Project-73
• Darry Saldana — Small Business Resource Network Specialist, Bronx Chamber of Commerce

CONNECT WITH THE BRONX SBDC

Looking to start or grow your business? Connect with the Bronx Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Lehman College for free, confidential business advising, training, and research. Our advisors help entrepreneurs navigate challenges, explore opportunities, and access the resources they need to succeed.

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The team behind the celebration:

Meet the Bronx SBDC Team:

• Vanessa Joseph, Regional Director
• Joselyn Gavilanes-Castillo, Assistant Director
• Dr. Patrick Saul, Senior Business Advisor
• Ashley Cholula, Business Advisor
• Shadia Khatun, Intern
• Christian Grullon, Intern

Thank you to our team, Lehman College faculty and staff, and all the individuals who contributed to making this celebration possible.

Bronx Small Business Development Center
Hosted by Lehman College | CUNY
Email: sbdc.bronx@lehman.cuny.edu
Follow us on social media: @BronxSBDC