FEBRUARY 2026
Recent tax law changes are affecting how businesses treat R&D costs, including new options to deduct or amortize expenses. Join this lunch & learn with Josh Hoffman, Partner at EFPR Advisory, to get an overview of the updated rules and key considerations related to accounting methods, R&D credits, and important deadlines. The session will also cover two other opportunities: Employee Tax Credits and Excelsior Job Tax Credits.
This is a free, in-person workshop and lunch will be provided. Space is limited and registration closes Monday, January 26 at 10:00 AM.
Coming up at NextCorps
Phishing remains one of the most common and costly cyber threats businesses face today. In this free lunch & learn, Matthew Reed, VP of the Managed IT Division at New York Technology Partners, will share practical guidance on spotting scams and protecting your organization’s data.
Space is limited and registration closes Monday, February 23 at 10:00 AM.
Opportunities to fuel your growth
Luminate is accepting applications for cohort 9. The hybrid accelerator brings founders from around the world into the OPI capital and pairs them with $100K, industry pioneers, renowned facilities, and qualified investors to speed innovation and time to market.
Act fast! Apply by January 12
ChargeUp, the nation’s first and only accelerator dedicated to battery innovation in the U.S., is looking for cohort 3. If you’re building breakthroughs across the battery value chain, this is your on-ramp to customers, capital, and connections to scale.
Apply by January 19
Businesses contracting with the DoD must implement the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) to protect sensitive information. MCC’s virtual CMMC Level 1 course covers the core compliance standards.
Learn more and apply soon
The Upstate Defense Innovation Challenge is advancing microelectronics innovation to strengthen regional defense readiness. FuzeHub will award three $60K grants to projects that develop breakthrough technologies or strengthen regional supply chains.
Apply by February 17
Venture For ClimateTech is looking for the most promising climate tech innovators from around the world working on solutions across four key sectors: Buildings, Grid/Energy, Industry, and Transportation. Accepted companies receive hands-on support and a path to first customers, pilot runs, and investment. Apply by February 20
Recognize GREATness
The GREAT Awards are TechRochester’s annual celebration of innovation, collaboration, and excellence across the Greater Rochester region. Each year, individuals, teams, and organizations using technology to transform industries and strengthen our community are recognized.
TechRochester’s Technology Woman of the Year (TWY) and Emerging Technology Woman of the Year (ETWY) awards recognize outstanding women who are shaping the future of technology in the Greater Rochester region through innovation, leadership, mentorship, and community impact.
Nominations due January 31
NextCorps community shoutouts
Closet OS soft launched its app and website. Check it out to start making your wardrobe more visible, organized, and intentional.
Circle Optics, Inc. participated in DCA Live CapitalCapital 2025 in Washington DC, joining policymakers, investors, and industry leaders focused on dual use technology and national security.
The Adventure Nexus‘ web-based platform and gaming community hub has a new look. Dive in and start connecting with other tabletop gamers!
MYRetreat is hosting an event featuring guided meditation, intentional chocolate pairings, and mocktails at ALTBAR on January 31. Advanced registration required.
Partner spotlight: RTMA
Learn more about the Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA) and its role in strengthening the region’s manufacturing workforce and innovation ecosystem. This special edition spotlight honors retiring Executive Director Bob Coyne, and looks ahead to RTMA’s future under incoming leader Rich Turner.
Community events
AI Preparations: What to be doing in 2026
Jan. 15, 5:30 PM, NextCorps
Join the AI in WNY Meetup Group to start 2026 by learning how to integrate AI into your business and workflows.
RocGrowth Coffee
Jan. 16, 8:00 AM, Bar Bantam
Get a jump on the last day of the work week with caffeine and conversations (no RSVP necessary).
On the blog
Forecasting with confidence: A founder’s guide to smarter financial decisions
One of the most common reasons startups fail is lack of cash, not vision. At a recent lunch & learn, NextCorps Entrepreneur-in-Residence Joel Benzel shared practical insights on financial forecasting and how thoughtful modeling can help founders anticipate risk, avoid crises, and make smarter choices.
All eyes on 2026 (Luminate)
The optics, photonics, and imaging ecosystem is being reshaped by shifting capital dynamics, emerging tech, and new expectations for commercialization. Luminate team members shared the trends they’ll be watching most closely in 2026.
🎉 Happy New Year from all of us at NextCorps! 🎉
