NAZ716 founders to speak at event

Anas Mangla and Nasreen Akhtar, founders of Naz716 Business Center, are special guest speakers at the 2024 Annual EAC Conference & Training Awards. Hosted by the Empire State Development’s Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers (EAC) Program, this prestigious event will take place on October 10, 2024, at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino Hotel.

This year’s theme, “Seizing Entrepreneurial Opportunities,” aligns perfectly with Naz716’s mission. As a Niagara-based business incubator, Naz716 provides early-stage startups with crucial mentorship, resources, and collaborative space to help them grow. The business center is also home to the local EAC, Ibero Business Solutions, which offers tailored business solutions to the Niagara community.

Nasreen Akhtar, co-founder of Naz716, said: “Being invited to speak at this event is a dream come true. We’ve worked hard to build a space where entrepreneurs can thrive, and to see our efforts recognized at this level is incredibly rewarding.”

Anas and Nasreen will share their entrepreneurial journey, which includes founding Aero Transportation, Western New York’s most reliable non-emergency transportation service. Their presentation will focus on the importance of resilience, community support, and seizing opportunities—values central to the EAC program’s mission.

The awards ceremony will also highlight Marissa Smouse, founder of Master Peace Massage, located at Naz716 Business Center, who is being honored as one of the Entrepreneur-of-the-Year Awardees. Marissa’s success underscores the supportive, collaborative environment at Naz716.

“We’re excited to share our story and learn from other entrepreneurs at the EAC Conference,” said Anas Mangla. “Naz716 has always been about helping others succeed, and this event gives us a chance to showcase that.”

The 2024 EAC Conference will bring together leaders from 26 EAC centers across New York State, entrepreneurs, trainers, and small business champions to celebrate entrepreneurial success.