A new city initiative is helping veteran-owned small businesses thrive, and officials are encouraging more veterans to apply.

Former Marine Eric Powell, owner of Flickinger Glass in Red Hook, is one of the latest success stories.

After serving two tours of duty, Powell took over the historic Flickinger glass studio in 2022.

Thanks to the city’s “Boss Up” competition, run by the Department of Small Business Services, his business is now heating up and expanding on the Red Hook waterfront.

“It would have taken a lot longer and been a lot harder without the support from Boss Up,” Powell said.

The program awarded Powell $20,000, which he used to upgrade his studio with new electric ovens. The investment has allowed him to expand his craft and preserve a traditional art form that he says is at risk of disappearing.

“This glass piece has various colors fused together, this wouldn’t be achievable with our old ovens,” Powell said.

Now, the next round of the Boss Up competition is open, with $200,000 available for veteran-owned businesses and Gold Star families. The funding comes from a mix of public and private sources.

“The application is open right now until Sept. 15,” said SBS Commissioner Dynishal Gross. “We’ll have up to 10 new winners in October, my favorite part is to hear what their dreams are, what they hope for, what they need.”

Powell says the benefits go beyond the financial support.

Since the program began in 2023 over $400,000 has been distributed to vets and Goldstar families.

“It wasn’t just about money. I’ve had so much support from the team — helping me connect with city agencies, making introductions to new programs and initiatives that any business or vet would need,” said Powell.

Applications for the Boss Up competition are open through Sept. 15. Click here for more information.