Upstate NY founders will be gathering in Aurora, NY to recognize those leading the charge in transforming Upstate NY’s economy through entrepreneurship. UVC’s annual two-day Unleashed Retreat is a chance for founders to step back from the day-to-day chaos of entrepreneurial life, reflect on broader strategic challenges, and connect with fellow Upstate New York founders.
Nuvalence Receives 2024 Deal of the Year Award for retaining 90% of team post-acquisition and continued contributions to Troy, NY
The Deal of the Year Award honors a company whose successful exit not only generated wealth for its investors, founders, and employees but also strengthened the economic landscape of Upstate New York. This award is a testament to the impact a company can have on the region, fostering job creation, innovation, and long-term economic growth.
This year, the award is proudly presented to Nuvalence, a Troy-based technology consultancy firm, following its acquisition by EY in April 2024. Nuvalence’s journey from a regional startup to a significant player in the tech industry exemplifies the potential of Upstate NY companies to achieve national and global success while staying rooted in their local communities.
Notably, the company’s commitment to its team is evident in the fact that over 90% of its employees transitioned with the company post-acquisition, maintaining a significant presence in Troy, NY.
Peter Dean and Noa Simons Honored with Community Catalyst Awards
Each year, UVC recognizes outstanding individuals as Community Catalysts. This award celebrates those who play pivotal roles in nurturing and sustaining emerging founders within their communities.
This year, we are proud to honor two exemplary individuals who embody the spirit of supporting founders in Upstate NY: Peter Dean and Noa Simons.
Peter Dean is a passionate advocate for founders in Upstate New York. As the founder of RenderTribe, a Saratoga Springs-based digital marketing company established in 2009, Peter leads a talented team dedicated to helping growth-stage software companies achieve successful exits.
Peter’s commitment to supporting emerging entrepreneurs extends beyond his business endeavors. He frequently mentors early-stage startup founders and has served as an Entrepreneur in Residence at Siena College. His impact is also felt through his regular lectures at Siena and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where he shares insights on digital marketing and scaling software and technology companies.
RenderTribe’s student internship program provides invaluable opportunities for students in Upstate New York to enter the marketing field. Many of the company’s current and former team members began their careers as interns from Siena or RPI, showcasing Peter’s dedication to nurturing local talent.
In addition to his work with RenderTribe, Peter connects with the broader entrepreneurial community through his podcast, “The Founder’s Journey,” where he shares stories and insights to inspire and guide founders.
Noa Simons is an entrepreneur, investor, and ecosystem builder based in the Hudson Valley. As the President & CEO of the Upstate Capital Association of NY, Noa focuses on advancing venture capital and private equity in Upstate NY, and has been leading the association since 2016. As the co-founder and CEO of GoodBread, she is building proprietary underwriting models to make small-dollar loans available to Main Street small businesses.
Prior to these roles, Noa co-founded the Hudson Valley Startup Fund and the Community Compost Company. She has a background in a venture capital-focused family office and spent significant time in China before returning to her native Upstate NY.
Under Noa’s leadership, in 2018, Upstate Capital began leading the NYBPC, New York’s statewide intercollegiate entrepreneurship competition that engages more than 700 students and 200 business professionals annually from more than 60 colleges and universities all across New York.
