Defense Economic Transition Assistance

Since 1995, the New York State Small Business Development Center has administered the Defense Economic Transition Assistance (DETA) program.  This program is designed to assist companies and individuals affected by reductions in Department of Defense spending in the United States.  The DETA program is located in five areas of New York State:  Long Island, Rochester, Watertown, Utica/Rome, and the Capital District.

Due to defense spending cutbacks, Long Island has lost  over 800 defense-related contracts.   In addition, an approximate average of 7,500 manufacturing sector jobs have been eliminated annually since 1987.  DETA advisors work with individuals affected by these defense cutbacks as well as contractors who need to make the transition to a commercial economy.  The advisors also participate in local organizations that assist technology and manufacturing industries.

The DETA Coordinator at the Farmingdale SBDC is Walter Reid.  He can be reached at 631.370.8893 or walter.reid@farmingdale.edu.