With videoconferencing to:   Empire State Development 633 Third Avenue, 37th Floor                         New York, NY 10017

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced $4.2 million in funding from the first round the Western New York Workforce Development Challenge has been awarded to six local not-for-profit organizations. The program will ensure the region's workforce pipeline meets industry demands in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, health and life sciences, and energy. The grants will be administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo and Empire State Development, the state's economic development agency. "Workforce development is critical to any thriving economy, and this funding will provide local not-for-profits the resources they need to train workers in the jobs of the future," Governor Cuomo said."With these investments, we are providing New Yorkers with the skills necessary to meet the demands of a 21st century economy and at the same time encouraging businesses to continue investing in Western New York." "Investing in our workforce is essential for continued growth in Buffalo and Western New York," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, who made today's announcement. "In order to keep up with the needs of the labor market, New York must lead the way to train workers in advanced manufacturing, health care, and energy to close the skills gap and create a pipeline of talent for employers. The Workforce Development Challenge Awards will target resources to ensure training is available across Western New York for good-paying jobs that will move our economy forward." Read the full press release here.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that Schenectady-based Redburn Development Partners will invest at least $78 million to transform seven properties in the heart of downtown Albany. The transformative project involves the renovation and rehabilitation of seven outdated and neglected properties, representing more than 450,000 square feet of space, to create new mixed-income apartments, commercial and retail space, and much-needed parking. "The City of Albany is growing and thriving, and this significant investment will only further attract new businesses and residents to the area," Governor Cuomo said. "The renovation of these seven neglected properties will continue the city's downtown revitalization by creating new jobs and mixed-income housing that will strengthen the area for generations to come." "Redburn Development has renovated vacant buildings in downtown Schenectady, fostering growth and economic opportunity over the last several years," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "This significant investment by Redburn will transform seven abandoned properties bringing new life to the area of downtown Albany with plans for apartments and commercial and retail space. I was proud to announce Albany as a Downtown Revitalization Initiative award winner earlier this year, and this additional state investment will further our efforts to grow downtown and strengthen the economy of the entire Capital Region." Read the full press release here.