St. Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency
Human Services Center
80 State Highway 310 Suite 6, Canton, New York 13617-1496
Phone: (315) 379-9806 Fax: (315) 386-2573
Raymond H. Fountain
Chief Executive Officer
BENCHMARK
Project:
Tony’s Canvas & Leather
Address:
50 Grove Street, Massena, NY
Start Date:
April 6, 2011
Overview:
Tony’s Canvas and Leather was started in 2001 by Anthony J. O’Geen
located from his home at 50 Grove Street, Massena. He began in 2001
repairing hockey equipment for local universities. Today, Tony’s Canvas
makes custom sports bags, leather saddle bags, and custom business &
sport apparel. The shop can also create signage for everything from
boats and cars to business banners and stickers. In addition, Mr.
O’Geen creates custom made boat tops, and reupholsters boat and
vehicle seats. Mr. O’Geen also repairs many items including re-palm of
hockey, lacrosse, and baseball gloves, shoes, purses, anything made
from leather. Mr. O’Geen’s work is custom-ordered.
Tony is requesting funds to purchase equipment that will improve the
productivity and efficiency of his business. He will also be able bring a
process in house that he currently outsources.
Actions Taken:
St. Lawrence County Local Development Corporation
Microenterprise Grant Program (MGP) ..................................................................$13,860
St. Lawrence County Local Development Corporation
Microenterprise Revolving Loan Fund (MRLF) ........................................................$5,000
Economic Indicators:

Job Creation – This project will assist in generating 1 FTE jobs over the next three
years.

Targeted Employment Opportunity – The purpose of the MGP and the MRLF is to
create employment opportunities for persons of low-moderate income (LMI). This
project will create 2 part time jobs (1 FTE) for persons who meet the LMI guidelines.

Other Financing Leveraged:
Private Equity ..................................................................................................$10,000

Improve Corporate Performance – This project will allow the business to increase
productivity and efficiency and improve customer satisfaction by filling orders more
quickly.

Targeted Business – This project is in line with the Microenterprise Grant Program
objective to target assistance to businesses which provide specialty or “niche”
services in a community where they are not currently found.