Upstate New York to receive greatest share of investment

U.S. Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Bank of America and Rural Opportunities, Inc. (ROI) today announced Bank of America has made a $5 million investment to provide much-needed financing to small and micro businesses across New York state.

The announcement was made today during ROI's 38th Annual Community Luncheon at the Crowne Plaza in Rochester, N.Y. About 300 people attended the luncheon.

"This is precisely the type of financing that will give a boost to small business enterprises in New York state. I am very grateful to Bank of America for again leading the way in this critical area and I am so pleased that they are partnering with ROI," Senator Clinton, D-N.Y., said in advance of the announcement. "We have to remind ourselves that 65 percent of all New York businesses are small and employ four or fewer employees. ROI staff are experts in working with small business in the state and have successfully provided management training, technical assistance and financing to hundreds of these companies."

ROI, based in Rochester, operates community development programs in seven states and Puerto Rico. ROI established The Enterprise Center in 1997 to enhance the economic self-sufficiency and quality of life of individuals and communities through entrepreneurial training, technical assistance and access to financing for new and expanding businesses.

Jason Berkes

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