programs – ZWWBusiness

STEM Means Business: Clarkson University’s David D. Reh School of Business Prepares Students for Industry Success with STEM-Designated Programs

POTSDAM, NY, Jan. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At Clarkson University, STEM is the path forward. Science, Technology, Engineering and Math are the backbone of a Clarkson education and across its academic spectrum, STEM is the catalyst for innovation and learning.

At Clarkson, STEM means business.

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The David D. Reh School of Business is integral to Clarkson’s proven STEM-focused education, research and innovation ecosystem. Recently, the School’s Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics degree became the newest of several business programs at Clarkson to be STEM-designated.

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Clarkson’s Reh School of Business is among an elite cadre of higher education institutions that offer degrees recognized by the U.S. government as STEM-designated programs. This designation indicates an advantageous impact on both students and U.S. industry and an increased level of rigor and quantitative skill development in the curriculum.

Other STEM-designated programs within the Reh School of Business include the Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Management, Master of Science in Healthcare Data Analytics, and MBA in Business Analytics.

“The future of Clarkson is STEM. I think it’s important that we recognize the “B” in “STEM” is silent. Our business programs are STEM. They are highly analytical, highly technical and a core piece of Clarkson,” said Clarkson University President Marc P. Christensen, Ph.D., P.E. “The recognition of this STEM designation is an affirmation of what we knew to be true all along. We are ensuring that we set our students on a path to success working in business with companies that will advance technology that serves humanity.”

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“I am thrilled to announce the STEM designation for our Business Analytics program, joining a prestigious lineup that includes the BS in Engineering and Management, MBA in Business Analytics, and MS in Healthcare Data Analytics,” said Bebonchu Atems, Interim Dean of the Reh School of Business. “The expansion of STEM designation across multiple programs underscores our dedication to excellence in education, ensuring our students are equipped with the essential skills for success in a technology-driven world.”

The STEM designation provides international students with the opportunity to gain additional real-world experience in the U.S. as well. Those with a student visa can apply to extend their 12 months of optional practical training for an additional 24 months post-graduation.

Clarkson’s business programs are designed with the same STEM mindset as the corporate partners who recruit Clarkson students for industry-relevant careers.

Groups call on Ottawa for permanent funding for Black business programs

Andrea Pierce, executive director of ImmigrantsCan, says legislative changes are needed to address the systemic barriers many Black Canadians face.Spencer Colby/The Globe and Mail

Black business and community groups are calling on Ottawa to permanently fund many programs that are set to expire.

The federal government began to introduce programs to support Black communities in 2018 after it endorsed the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, which runs until 2024. Ottawa introduced more new initiatives such as the Black Entrepreneurship Program after George Floyd’s killing and Black Lives Matter demonstrations in 2020.

But the programs have all had a set shelf life. For example, the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative, or SBCCI, was created in the 2019 budget and given $25-million over five years to build capacity in grassroots Black-serving organizations across the country. That funding was set to run out in the 2023-24 fiscal year, but in the 2023 budget, the program was given one additional year of funding at $25-million with no clear guidance on what happens after that.

Hundreds of Black entrepreneurs and organizations began writing to federal ministers Karina Gould and Ahmed Hussen this month asking what legislative change will ultimately come from these initiatives.

“We really need a permanent policy to come out of it, because if these programs end … that’s it,” said Jackee Kasandy, co-founder of the Black Entrepreneurs and Businesses of Canada Society.

Employment and Social Development Canada said SBCCI has supported 939 projects with its total $50-million budget, and spent another $82-million on capital projects – such as renovations – for 1,300 Black-serving groups across the country.

The department said Ms. Gould, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, will explore options after engaging with Black communities and leaders this fall.

While many organizations and entrepreneurs are hoping the funding for these programs continues, their hope for change goes behind budget items.

“It’s not the cheque-writing that’s required,” said Deress Asghedom, founder of Vaster, a cannabis technology startup in Vancouver. “It’s also the commitment to be an ally and recognizing there are challenges. Recognizing there isn’t an even playing field. And then making that commitment to say that we’re here for the long term.”

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Downtown business association launches programs, grants to revitalize Edmonton’s core – Edmonton

The Edmonton Downtown Business Association is working with partners including Avison Young, the University of Alberta, the city and province to support business growth, retail and dining in the core.

On Monday, the DBA announced three programs: the Downtown Retail Project, the Downtown Patio Grant and Business Adaptation and Revitalization.

The programs include a total of $1.8 million in funding for downtown businesses.

Downtown Retail Project

Applications are open for this program that will help remove barriers and reduce risk for opening physical storefronts in the downtown core.

Up to six retailers will receive up to $250,000 each to help offset the costs of building out a new downtown location.

Businesses will also receive three months’ free rent, marketing and other operational supports once stores are up and running.

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Downtown Edmonton looking up: business association

It’s a partnership with commercial real estate advisor Avison Young, which will lead site selections, lease negotiations, permitting, store design and builds for six successful applicants. Avison Young will also help retailers retain tenants and landlords.

“When we talk about downtown vibrancy, high retail vacancy and a lack of shopping options are among the most frequently brought up frustrations from downtown residents, visitors, workers, and business owners,” DBA executive director Puneeta McBryan said.

“We’re committed to help bring back a much-needed fresh and diverse retail mix to downtown Edmonton and support business owners who see the potential of our downtown by removing some of the high start-up costs and financial risk, which are often a barrier to entry.”

Click to play video: 'Converting empty office space in downtown Edmonton to residential units'

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Converting empty office space in downtown Edmonton to residential units

The provincial government provided funding through the Ministry of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development. The City of Edmonton will also provide funding through the provincial government allocation towards downtown vibrancy efforts.

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“We are proud to support this creative initiative led by the Edmonton Downtown Business Association that will attract more retailers to Edmonton’s downtown core and ensure it continues to thrive as the economic and cultural heart of the city,” UCP Minister Brian Jean said.

Interested businesses and property managers can read more about the project and apply online. Applications are due May 31 and applicants will be chosen June 15.

Downtown Patio Grant

Restaurants, bars and cafes within the DBA borders can apply for this grant.

Up to $5,000 is available per business, per