POTSDAM -- Clarkson University is now taking registrations at www.clarkson.edu/adk for the third annual Forever Wired Conference on Tuesday, Oct. 4.

The conference will offer a variety of sessions geared toward assisting small business owners and teleworkers in rural communities. Attendees will have the opportunity to discuss responsible and sustainable economic growth in the Adirondack region, and address the resources available to assist entrepreneurs in overcoming challenges.

Workshops will focus on:

• Telecommuting Tips

• Overcoming Rural Entrepreneurship Challenges

• Micro-financing

• Government, Industry and Higher Education Collaboration

• Doing Business Internationally

Professionals and organizations are invited to set up promotional displays at the conference to connect with other entrepreneurs who may be seeking their services. Free one-on-one consultations with experts from Clarkson University's Shipley Center for Innovation and Reh Center for Entrepreneurship will also be available upon request, as well as networking with rural sector experts from around the east coast, who are helping with the sessions.

"The Forever Wired schedule is designed to bring a wide cross section of regional stakeholders together," said conference chair Kelly O. Chezum, vice president for external relations at Clarkson. "We will cover professional development, networking and information sessions for working-wired entrepreneurs, mobile workers, corporate telecommuters and people interested in green tech commerce."

Last year's conference drew more than 250 participants from across New York State and included many seasonal residents of the Adirondack Park, as well.

The conference is a central component of the Adirondack Initiative for Wired Work, which is championed by a team of regional leaders and energized professionals dedicated toward creation of a sustainable economy in the greater Adirondack North Country. Through their activities, the Adirondack Initiative encourages telework, green-tech commerce and entrepreneurship from home offices and businesses with minimal impact on the natural environment.

"We must advance economic opportunities that will attract and retain our young people and bring meaningful employment into to the region," said Clarkson President Tony Collins. "The Adirondack Initiative balances the environmental needs of our region, and is aimed at preserving the unique character of our Adirondack and North Country communities, which we share with recreational enthusiasts, tourists and wildlife."

Clarkson University is expanding support services for teleworkers and entrepreneurs in the area. The Adirondack Business Center hosted by the Clarkson Entrepreneurship Center in Saranac Lake, N.Y. is equipped with wireless Internet, a conference room, quiet workspace, and will provide other amenities to the public. The built-in classroom holds sessions such as "My Small Business 101" to advance practical business skills of local entrepreneurs.

For more information call 268-4483.