When it comes to attracting new businesses, Huntington is doing something right.

That's according to Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, who praised the success of the Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency for bringing new businesses to the area at a recent gathering at The Paramount theater in Huntington.

“The IDA is helping build our downtowns into thriving start-up communities,” Bellone said.

“Huntington is a perfect example of the cooperation between the Town of Huntington, Suffolk County and the IDA," he added.

Bellone cited Launch Pad, Work Market and eGifter, a web and mobile social gifting app, as projects backed by the IDA.

"These new companies provide jobs, stimulate the local economy and help keep younger residents working here instead of leaving Suffolk County,” Bellone said.

Also speaking at the “Start-Up Connect. Part 2” event, were Mark Lesko, executive director of Accelerate Long Island, an organization dedicated to commercializing research and creating an entrepreneurial system, Tyler Roye of Egifter and Town Councilman Mark Cuthbertson.

Steve Rossetti, a member of the IDA’s board, emceed the event, which drew more than 200 people, representing businesses, organizations and government.