VIDEO: Allegany County small businesses compete in “rigorous” evaluation
From ACCORD, pictured are contestants
ACCORD successfully hosted its 2026 Business Plan Competition at the Solutions Hub, showcasing local entrepreneurial talent and fostering economic growth. The high-stakes event was made possible through grant funding from the Empire State Development Entrepreneurship Assistance Center Business Plan Competition Pilot Program.
The competition brought together businesses from across the region, each presenting comprehensive strategies to launch or expand their business ventures. Participants underwent months of rigorous preparation, sharpening their financial models, marketing plans, and operational strategies to pitch before a panel of expert judges.
ACCORD extends its deepest gratitude to Empire State Development for providing the vital funding that makes programs like this possible. Special thanks are also due to the local mentors, judges, and community partners who volunteered their time and expertise to guide businesses toward success.
The event highlighted an impressive array of business concepts, with funding awarded to the following businesses.
First Place ($13,000): Ludden’s Septic Services, Inc. provides reliable septic system solutions for homes and businesses in Wellsville, NY area. They offer comprehensive services including septic tank pumping, repairs, and new system installations, ensuring efficient and safe waste management for our clients.
Ludden’s Septic Service on Facebook
Second Place ($10,000): Dark Hollow Lawn Care offers a comprehensive property maintenance solution for homeowners and property managers throughout Allegany County, NY. Founded by a veteran with over three decades of experience in construction and maintenance, services include expert lawn care, garden installations, cemetery services, and humane bee removal.
Third Place ($7,000): Compassionate Healing Arts, LLC is a sole practitioner energy healing practice based in Wellsville, New York. The business offers Reiki, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and Acupressure services through multiple delivery formats.
www.compassionatehealingarts.com
Judges Choice ($5,000): Raft Waterfowl Studios specializes in the intricate art of preserving waterfowl and other avian species. Led by an award-winning artist, the studio utilizes modern techniques and high-quality reproduction parts to create high quality works of art.
Raft Waterfowl Studios on Facebook
Additional Participating Finalists:
Heron Hill Yoga – Located in the village of Wellsville, New York, Heron Hill Yoga is an intimate, community-focused wellness space operated by founder and veteran educator Kristin Buchholz. The studio offers accessible beginner classes, silent meditation, reiki, and creative workshops designed to improve physical strength, ease stress, and foster a deeper mind-body connection for all ages and skill levels.
TriplEscapes – TriplEscapes is a specialized massage and wellness studio located in the Town of Belfast, NY, that provides a quiet space for relaxation and therapeutic services. The business focuses on helping clients unwind through personalized massage therapy sessions in a convenient, small-town setting.
“We are incredibly proud of every participant who stepped up to pitch their vision.” said Jeff Stager, Business and Community Development Director of ACCORD. “This competition proves that entrepreneurial spirit is thriving in our community. We thank ESD, our judges, and the community for supporting these amazing businesses.”
ACCORD is a private, non-profit Community Action Agency and Entrepreneurial Assistance Center. ACCORD’s EAC program covers Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Steuben Counties and incorporates education, networking, and support to empower individuals to navigate the business landscape.
