Bob Griffin serves as Regional Director of the North Central Small Business Development Center at Onondaga Community College, where he leads strategic operations across an eight-county region in Central and Northern New York. Since assuming the role in 2022, he has focused on elevating the SBDC’s impact through disciplined growth advising, financial analysis, capital access strategy, and regional economic collaboration. He works directly with entrepreneurs and second-stage business owners while overseeing a team of advisors dedicated to measurable business outcomes.
Bob brings more than 25 years of professional experience spanning small business advisory services, hospitality leadership, marketing strategy, and operational management. Prior to his current role, he served as a Certified Small Business Advisor at Binghamton University, assisting entrepreneurs in securing more than $31 million in capital and supporting the creation or retention of over 1,800 jobs. He is also a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), helping business owners design practical succession and transition strategies.
His background includes over two decades in hospitality and food services management, including work with convention and visitor bureaus, hotels, restaurants, casinos, and contract food service organizations throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. This hands-on operational experience informs his advising philosophy: strategy must be practical, financially grounded, and executable.
Bob believes small businesses are the backbone of regional economies and that disciplined growth—not just startup enthusiasm—creates lasting impact. He is particularly passionate about helping established businesses strengthen cash flow, improve valuation, prepare for transition, and scale responsibly. He views advising as a partnership rooted in accountability, clarity, and measurable results.
In addition to his work in economic development, Bob serves as Chief Operating Officer of Dream Corridor Productions, a theatrical and media production company.
Areas of Specialty / Expertise
- Business growth strategy for second-stage companies
- Financial projections and cash flow analysis
- Capital access strategy and lender readiness
- Exit planning and succession strategy (CEPA)
- Operational efficiency and performance metrics
- Marketing strategy development
- Economic development collaboration and regional strategy
- Hospitality and service industry management
Education
Bachelors of Business Administration - Angelo State University
Certified Exiting Planning Advisor (CEPA) - Exit Planning Institute
Certified Small Business Advisor - New York SBDC
Contact Information
