About

StartUp PK is a nonprofit business incubator dedicated to bringing Poughkeepsie to its fullest potential.

Located in the heart of Poughkeepsie, New York, we are a dedicated business incubator and small business support organization committed to propelling startups and small businesses to new heights. At Startup PK, we understand that every business, regardless of its size, has the potential to make a significant impact, and we're here to empower you with the resources, guidance, and connections you need to thrive.

At Startup PK, we understand that every venture is unique. That's why we offer a tailored approach to support, combining state-of-the-art facilities with personalized mentorship and a diverse network of industry experts. From co-working spaces designed for collaboration to workshops and events that foster learning and growth, we provide the fertile ground for businesses to flourish. With a community-driven mindset, we aim to not only elevate individual startups but also to strengthen the economic fabric of Poughkeepsie and its surrounding areas. Join us at Startup PK, and let's embark on this transformative journey together.

Meet The Team

Dana Jones

Executive Director

Anthony Slade

Director of Community Engagement & Development

Emily Cox

Director of Resource Development

Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges:

Lack of Startup Support, Scattered Resources, and Community Disconnect

The City of Poughkeepsie currently lacks the fundamental elements to create a successful environment for startups and small businesses. Support services like those provided by an incubator are few and far between in the immediate Dutchess County area and those resources that do exist are inaccessible for many city residents that lack private transportation or internet access. While the area is starting to generate some buzz with new businesses opening, many of these do not cater to city residents, resulting in gentrification. If city residents had greater access to opportunities to address community needs, this would work towards closing that gap and providing local residents with self supporting means.

Opportunities:

Propelling Poughkeepsie Forward

StartUp PK will serve as an entrepreneurial hub for the City of Poughkeepsie and surrounding areas. In addition to providing a community resource for established local entrepreneurs, StartUp PK would develop an annual cohort-based incubator program intended to remove barriers to entry while attracting, retaining, and supporting businesses in the City of Poughkeepsie. StartUp PK would serve as a bridge between opportunity and community, utilizing the local talent and resources of city residents. This not only creates a pathway for individuals to become economically independent, but adds to community capacity and empowerment.

In partnership with existing community resources, StartUp PK would serve as an umbrella to pre-existing programs. Through the expansion of resources and capacity beyond workspace rental, Startup PK will help propel businesses into self-sustenance while creating job opportunities for city residents.

StartUp PK is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Tax Exempt ID: 92-3055520

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