Page 50 - 914INC - Q1 2016

48 914INC. Q1 2016
Her nonprofit has dished
out more than $2 million in local microloan funding since 2003.
WHO: JOHN RAVITZ
WHAT: Executive Vice President & COO, Business Council of Westchester
WHY: As second-in-command at the Business Council, Ravitz—a former New York State assemblyman—has his finger firmly on the pulse of the county’s business scene (and all its players).
WHO: MIKE DARDANO
WHAT: Founder and CEO,
Buzz Potential
WHY: The most atypical PR guy you’ll ever meet (his de facto uniform: jeans, a client’s tee shirt, and bright white shades), Dardano nonetheless is a major connector—nearly everyone in Westchester’s small-business circles is a Buzz Potential client, friend, or friend of a friend.
WHO: NATASHA CAPUTO
WHAT: Director, Westchester County Tourism
WHY: Fun, chatty, and endlessly energetic, Caputo is literally the face of Westchester tourism. If you want a piece of this $1.7 billion sector of the county’s economy, seek her out at nearly any county business event (we’re not sure how she ever makes it into the office!); her advice and influence are critical.
WHO: LARRY GOTTLIEB
WHAT: President & CEO,
Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation
WHY: If the Hudson Valley had an official economic-development cheerleader, it would be Gottlieb. In his current role (and previously, as Westchester’s Director of Economic Development), he’s amassed a contact base that spans nearly every local industry. If he can’t help you directly, he knows who can.
WHO: KIMBERLIE JACOBS
WHAT: Executive Director, Community Capital New York WHY: Schmoozing with bank presidents is never a bad move, but Westchester small- business owners would do just as well to pay Jacobs a visit: Her nonprofit has dished out more than $2 million in microloan funding to area businesses since 2003. Jacobs is a crucial ally for local entrepreneurs.
WHO: PETER KELLY
WHAT: Chef/Owner,
Xaviars Restaurant Group
WHY: If it involves food in Westchester, Kelly is likely involved. He’s cooked
up one of the most successful entrepreneurial careers in
the county, with several marquee restaurants in his group. Kelly’s blessing can make or break a fledgling Westchester restaurateur.