April 24, 2025 – Jason Duff, Founder and CEO of Small Nation, will serve as the keynote speaker at the upcoming New York State City/County Management Association (NYSCMA) Annual Conference, taking place April 30 through May 2 at the Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown, New York. The keynote will be on Thursday, May 1.

The NYSCMA is a professional association of appointed municipal executives and administrators across New York, committed to improving the effectiveness of local government through training, information exchange, and promotion of the council-manager form of government. The organization’s annual spring conference brings together city and county leaders for three days of professional development, networking, and discussion on best practices in public administration.

Jason will share insights from his work leading Small Nation, a real estate and economic development company focused on revitalizing small towns through entrepreneurship, property investment, and strategic partnerships. His keynote will highlight practical examples of downtown transformation, including how creative leasing, building reuse, and local business development can strengthen rural economies and municipal budgets.

“Across the country, including in both Ohio and New York, small towns are facing real challenges – but also real opportunities,” said Jason. “I’m honored to speak with New York’s city and county leaders about how intentional investment and innovative partnerships can breathe new life into main streets, strengthen communities, and deliver measurable results.”

The 2025 NYSCMA program will also feature national voices on digital communications and AI in government, along with sessions on council/manager collaboration and service delivery improvements. The event offers municipal professionals a chance to learn, network, and explore historic Cooperstown.

About Small Nation:

Small Nation develops places, spaces, and dreams for small towns and entrepreneurs across the country. Based in Bellefontaine, Ohio, the team invests in real estate, creates business solutions, and provides resources for small-town success. Small Nation has been recognized nationally for its work in downtown revitalization, business incubation, and rural economic development.

To learn more about Small Nation, visit www.smallnation.com or follow them on social media at @smallnationstrong.