Empire State Development Blog
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We feature stories of innovative businesses that are making New York their home, plus offer updates on economic activity and development from around the state.
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Board Meeting
Tuesday, June 20, 2023 - 10:30am
Public Notice
Thursday, June 15, 2023 - 2:00pm
View all grants to be presented at the batch virtual public hearing.
Public Notice
Monday, June 12, 2023 - 5:00pm
View Public NoticeAmended General Project PlanPublic Hearing Instructions
Press Release
Monday, June 5, 2023 - 11:57am
Small Businesses with 100 or Fewer Employees May Receive Tax Credits for COVID-19-Related Costs
Empire State Development today announced that the application deadline for Empire State Development’s (ESD) $250M COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program has been extended to September 30, 2023. New York State small businesses that made investments to comply with emergency orders and regulations in response to COVID-19 can apply for a refundable tax credit of up to $25,000. Governor Hochul announced the launch of the program on October 25, 2022 and secured an extension of the program’s application deadline through September as part of the FY 2024 Budget.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said. “By extending the application deadline for the COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program to September 30th, we are expanding the reach of our support, ensuring that more New York small businesses receive the financial relief they need to bounce back and thrive once again”.
Small businesses with qualifying COVID-19-related expenses are eligible for a refundable tax credit of up to $25,000 based on qualifying expenses of $50,000. Qualifying expenses are related to building upgrades, structural changes, or supplies to comply with public health or other emergency-related orders and regulations to increase public safety through infectious disease mitigation during 2021 and 2022. Expenses can also include hand sanitizer stations, supplies to disinfect against COVID-19 transmission, equipment for social distancing, air purifiers, contactless point of sale equipment and more.
Businesses independently owned and operated in the State of New York with less than 100 full-time employees and gross receipts of less than $2.5 million are eligible.
Applicants and qualifying businesses can expect the following:
To fill out a pre-screening questionnaire to confirm their eligibility
An online application portal available in 68 languages
Access to multilingual application assistance via phone, text, and email
To present proof of expenses and other supporting documents
A tax credit certificate to submit to the Department of Taxation and Finance when filing a tax return
Applications will be open until September 30, 2023. Small businesses are encouraged to apply through the pre-screening tool. If businesses receive a tax credit certificate in 2023, they can claim the credit on their 2023 tax return.
To learn more about eligibility and qualifying expenses, visit www.esd.ny.gov/covid-19-capital-costs-tax-credit.
Contact:
Kristin Devoe: [email protected] | (518) 414-1087
ESD Press Office: [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
Press Release
Wednesday, May 31, 2023 - 4:33pm
Expanded Location in the Town of Perinton Will Result in Creation of More than 20 New Jobs
Investment Complements “Finger Lakes Forward” – The Region’s Comprehensive Strategy to Revitalize Communities and Grow the Economy
Empire State Development (ESD) today joined TOPTICA and other local officials to celebrate the official grand opening of the photonics company’s new, expanded location in the Town of Perinton in Monroe County. In an effort to continue to grow its forward-thinking operations, the photonics company renovated 30,000 square-feet of space at the location on Pittsford-Victor Road. The new facility features manufacturing labs, warehouse storage, business offices and three ISO Class 7 clean rooms. As a result of the expansion, the company has committed to creating up to 22 new jobs over the next five years; 32 jobs will be retained.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “As an established OPI industry hub, the Finger Lakes region offers leading optics, photonics and imaging companies the skilled workforce and innovation economy they need to grow in New York State. TOPTICA Photonics’ latest expansion builds on the region’s continued leadership as an epicenter for advancement in this high-tech industry.”
Originally founded in Germany in 1998, TOPTICA Photonics has been developing and manufacturing high-end laser systems for scientific and industrial applications for more than 20 years. Its portfolio includes diode lasers, ultrafast fiber lasers, terahertz systems and frequency combs. The systems are used for demanding applications in biophotonics, industrial metrology and quantum technology. TOPTICA also provides all wavelength coverage of diode lasers and provides high-power lasers even at exotic wavelengths.
“TOPTICA is thrilled to announce our new, expanded location in Perinton, NY,” said Mark A. Tolbert. “We are thankful for the support from New York State, Monroe County, and local entities that will allow us to continue our world class laser manufacturing operation in a facility that accommodates the demanding requirements of advanced photonic manufacturing and research and development. We are committed to continued growth and are positioned to achieve that in this new facility.”
ESD is assisting the company with its expansion project by providing up to $ 1 million through the performance-based Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit Program in exchange for job creation commitments and through a $400,000 Capital Grant. The total cost of the expansion project has been placed at a little more than $2.67 million. Monroe County and Greater Rochester Enterprise also assisted with the project.
The event also featured the presentation of Optica’s Advocate of Optics Award to Congressman Joe Morelle. This award is presented annually to an outstanding public official from any country who demonstrates leadership and support for the advancement of optics and photonics. Morelle was recognized for his advocacy for the industry.
“Congratulations to TOPTICA on their expansion and ensuring our region has a key role in the innovation of emerging laser system technology,” said Congressman Morelle. “Already, advances in this field are driving innovation and this new facility will allow for the increased manufacturing capabilities necessary to make our region a global leader in optics and photonics. I am very honored to receive their Advocate of Optics Award and look forward to seeing what the future holds.”
The Finger Lakes region continues to build on its reputation as a global leader in the optics. photonics and imaging industries. The Rochester area is not only home to TOPTICA Photonics, but to the University of Rochester’s Institute of Optics, the Rochester Institute of Technology and to over 100 local optics, photonics and imaging companies. With the workforce, technology base and support network in place, the region is cementing itself as the global industry leader, driving economic growth in the region for generations to come as it continues to move forward.
State Assemblymember Jen Lunsford, said, "The Finger Lakes’ role in producing cutting edge photonics technology is known world-wide. TOPTICA’S expansion in Perinton only further cements our region as the global leader in OPI. This is a perfect example of the power of public private partnerships to bring good jobs in high growth industries to our community. Congratulations to TOPTICA on this exciting expansion!"
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, said, “Monroe County is an ideal place for high-tech businesses like TOPTICA Photonics to grow and flourish: we have a highly-skilled workforce and a growing reputation as a dynamic hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation. I’m proud of the support for this project from the County of Monroe Industrial Development Agency and thank Empire State Development and Gov. Kathy Hochul for their investments in our local economy. I look forward TOPTICA’s continued success and contributions to our region’s economy.”
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO and Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chair Bob Duffy, said, "Congratulations to TOPTICA Photonics on the grand opening of their new headquarters in Monroe County! This expansion not only showcases their forward-thinking operations and commitment to growth, but also reveals them as one of Rochester's best-kept secrets. With their technology present in nearly every university research lab in the U.S. and the private sector, TOPTICA Photonics has established itself as a leading force in the field. We extend our gratitude to TOPTICA CEO Mark Tolbert, Governor Kathy Hochul, Monroe County, and all the supporters who made this project possible. Greater Rochester Chamber celebrates TOPTICA's success and looks forward to supporting their continued impact on our local economy."
Matt Hurlbutt, President and CEO, Greater Rochester Enterprise, said, “Congratulations to TOPTICA Photonics on the grand opening of its new, expanded location in the Greater Rochester, NY region. As the world leader in optics, photonics, and imaging, Rochester has the fully integrated supply chain, talent, and expertise to support TOPTICA Photonics’ world class laser manufacturing operation.”
Accelerating Finger Lakes Forward
Today’s announcement complements “Finger Lakes Forward,” the region’s comprehensive strategy to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on investing in key industries including photonics, agriculture and food production, and advanced manufacturing. More information is available here.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency (www.esd.ny.gov). The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing the Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of “I LOVE NEW YORK,” the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.
Contact:
Shari Voorhees-Vincent | [email protected] | (585) 399-7055
Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
Board Meeting
Wednesday, May 31, 2023 - 11:00am
This meeting is open to the public.
The meeting will be streamed and available at the link below.
Due to building procedures, attendees are asked to RSVP by 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 30.
RSVP press line (800) 260-7313; RSVP public line (518) 292-5105.
Press Release
Wednesday, May 31, 2023 - 10:33am
Center Will Enhance Visitor Experience and Showcase Buffalo’s Proud African American History
Empire State Development (ESD) today announced the opening of the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor’s (MSAAHC’s) new headquarters and visitor center. The MSAAHC is a nationally and internationally recognized Buffalo neighborhood that serves as the focal point for residents and visitors to learn about Buffalo’s rich African American history and its significant impact on local, national, and international history. Establishing a home for the not-for-profit MSAAHC Commission in the Corridor at 136 Broadway—a key objective of the Corridor’s Strategic Plan completed in 2022—will make it easy for people to navigate the various historic sites in the corridor and participate in a variety of events and activities.
“The new visitors center and headquarters provides a convenient, comprehensive gateway for guests and residents to experience the wide variety of sites and activities in the African American Heritage Corridor,” said Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight. “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is a proud partner in the collaborative effort to elevate this treasured heritage destination in Buffalo, and we encourage visitors to reflect on, learn from, and honor the past as they tour and enjoy all the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor has to offer.”
New York State provided a $2.3 million grant for acquisition of the 20,433 square foot mixed-use building, which contains two commercial storefronts, three upper floor apartments and an adjoining parking lot. The building will include offices and workspace for Commission staff, a visitor center, public restrooms, and a small pop-up gift shop. The apartments and a commercial tenant will remain in the building to provide on-going revenue toward building upkeep and Commission operations. The parking lot will serve the headquarters and will also facilitate hosting events and activities of the corridor’s anchor institutions and Corridor-wide events, including a weekly farmers’ market, food truck events, small concerts, and fundraising activities. A mural highlighting Black history is also planned to be commissioned on the east side wall of the building, which faces Michigan Avenue.
Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission’s (MSAAHCC) Executive Director Terry Alford said, “Buffalo has fought hard to hold on to and preserve its Black historical sites. Walking in the steps of those who traveled the Underground Railroad, rallied for freedom in the African American churches, and played their hearts out at the Colored Musicians Club is an experience that is critical to telling the full story of Buffalo. I thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for supporting us in making sure everyone has the opportunity to experience our unique historic and cultural sites.”
The MSAAHC includes four historic anchor institutions—the Michigan Street Baptist Church, the J. Edward Nash House Museum, the Colored Musicians Club, and the WUFO Black History Collective—that tell the stories of a neighborhood that became the heart of the African American experience in Buffalo. It’s an American story of advocacy, freedom, and creativity. The time periods celebrated by assets in the Heritage Corridor include the Abolitionist movement, the Civil Rights movement, and several cultural and artistic renaissance periods. Its festivals, cultural events and artistic programming draw residents, national and international tourists, scholars and artists, writers, storytellers, poets, dancers, and actors to a thriving, community of historic urban scale.
Lillie Wiley-Upshaw, Chair of the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission Board, said, “There’s more to come! We ask the community to watch the growth as we continue to develop a heritage experience for Buffalo residents and national visitors.”
Governor Hochul recently announced nearly $10 million in investments and grant awards as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to address the needs of the East Buffalo community. The announcement, which follows the $50 million targeted investment announced in June 2022, includes expansion of the homeowner improvement program, additional mental health services, and development of a memorial for victims of the white supremacist terror attack at Tops Supermarket. In addition, also in June 2020, the Governor announced a “Regional Revitalization Partnership” with local philanthropic organizations and municipalities in East Buffalo, Niagara Falls and Rochester. Under this partnership, a combined $30 million ($24 million New York State and $6 million philanthropic/municipal) will be invested over the next five years in the MSAAHC to support capital improvements to realize components of the Corridor Strategic Plan and to facilitate ongoing operations of the Commission to advance its mission.
Senator Tim Kennedy said, “Under Terry Alford's leadership, the MSAAHCC has played a key role in amplifying African American voices, milestones, and landmarks within our city's history, and this new headquarters and visitor center will deservedly elevate that mission in perpetuity. I’m thrilled to see this important space open its doors to our community, and look forward to continuing to collaborate with the Commission on its meaningful work.”
Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “Congratulations to the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission on its new home. This is the culmination of a vision that I had twenty years ago with establishing the Corridor as a state heritage area for African American cultural tourism. Our history is our nation’s shared history - from arts and culture to advocating for human rights. It’s taken awhile to get here, but you can begin to see the fruit of everyone’s labor with a number of construction projects underway at anchor institutions. The Corridor Commission’s new home will allow for better internal coordination, along with a well-deserved and proper home base for staff, tours and visitors. Thank you to all of our philanthropic partners, especially Governor Hochul and Empire State Development, for acknowledging its significance and making this all possible.”
Mayor Byron W. Brown said, “The Michigan Avenue corridor is home to several historic institutions – like the Michigan Street Baptist Church, Nash House, the Colored Musicians Club and WUFO. The new visitors center and headquarters for the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor will help bring information about these institutions together under one roof. This will be an important stop for tourists - local, national, and international - when visiting the city of Buffalo. The new visitor center is just one of the many positive developments taking place in East Buffalo and throughout our City. I want to thank the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission for all their hard work. I would also like to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued support and investment in our community.”
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said, “Erie County is proud to support the historic institutions that make up Buffalo’s African American Heritage Corridor and I thank Governor Hochul and NYS for this investment, which will serve as a vibrant hub for the community and a starting point for anyone interested in learning more about our area’s rich African American history.”
Congressman Brian Higgins said, “The Michigan Street Corridor played an important role in Buffalo and American history. This new visitor center is the latest in the Buffalo-Niagara region’s continuing effort to grow tourism and the economy by sharing the stories that are uniquely ours.”
About the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission
The Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission’s focus is to integrate the African American cultural significance and impact on Buffalo and American history through public engagement and community education that encourage cultural appreciation, preservation, and community development. Learn More: www.michiganstreetbuffalo.org
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency (www.esd.ny.gov). The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing the Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of “I LOVE NEW YORK,” the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.
Contact:
Pamm Lent | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309
Jennifer Parker | [email protected] | (716) 866-4916
Board Meeting
Wednesday, May 31, 2023 - 10:30am
With video conferencing to: Empire State Development – Rochester Office, 400 Andrews Street – Suite 300, Rochester, New York 14604
The meeting is open to the public.
The public may also view and listen to the meeting via webcast by clicking the link below.
Please Note:
Due to building procedures, members of the public attending in-person at either location should please RSVP by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.
Members of the press should please call (800) 260-7313; Members of the public should please call (212) 803-3772.
Members of the public may submit comments on the Agenda items in writing to [email protected] by Noon on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.
All comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the Committee Members prior to the meeting and will posted online.
Press Release
Tuesday, May 30, 2023 - 3:00pm
Beginning on June 6, State Representatives Will Stop in Utica, Troy, Buffalo, and Rochester to Highlight State Programs and Services to Help Small Businesses Succeed
Part of Governor's Ongoing Commitment to Supporting New York's Small Business Community
Businesses Can Register to Attend Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of a new small business outreach effort, led by the New York State Department of Labor, to help connect entrepreneurs to no-cost supports and services. As part of the Governor's continued commitment to these vital economic contributors, representatives from the New York State Department of Labor, Departments of State and Tax and Finance, the Workers' Compensation Board, and Empire State Development will traverse the state to provide important information to small business owners on licensing, regulations, taxes, grants, training, and more.
"Small businesses are the core of New York's economy - creating local jobs, reenergizing neighborhoods, and bringing communities together," Governor Hochul said. "We are excited to bring no-cost resources directly to small businesses across the state to ensure they get the support they deserve."
New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, "Our small businesses are the heartbeat of communities and play a vital role in our economy. The New York State Department of Labor offers a variety of no-cost resources that can help small businesses remain competitive in the global market. I encourage entrepreneurs to attend one of these sessions to learn more about how New York State can help you be successful."
The tour features stops in Utica, Troy, Rochester, and Buffalo, and is part of New York State's effort to advance, support, and strengthen smaller operations that continue to have a significant economic impact in their local communities.
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Friday, May 26, 2023 - 4:40pm
Boat will take passengers on scenic tours of Buffalo’s waterfront
See photo here
Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) announced the christening today of the Big Kahuna, a new tiki tour boat docked at Canalside. The newly built, multi-hulled boat is the latest to be added to the fleet of Buffalo Boat Tours and will carry passengers on daily scenic Buffalo waterfront trips.
“There is no better way to enjoy Buffalo’s waterfront than aboard a beautiful boat with an ice-cold beverage while listening to island music,” said ECHDC Chairman Robert Gioia. “Governor Hochul has provided the leadership needed to capitalize on Buffalo’s extraordinary waterfront and the new boat gives Western New Yorkers yet another way to experience our greatest natural asset.”
The Big Kahuna, which was built in Florida this past winter, is a custom design vessel that is 50 feet long and 14 feet wide with two outboard engines. The top speed of the vessel is around 8 knots, and it can carry up to 45 passengers. The tiki boat will serve beverages and snacks. There are also snacks available for purchase. It runs seven days a week for both public cruises and charters, with a family excursion and three adult tiki trips running daily.
Passengers will board the Big Kahuna from the dock on the Central Wharf at Canalside. They will then enjoy a 90-minute trip past historic landmarks, including the impressive series of grain elevators. The cruise also provides excellent views of Buffalo’s skyline.
The Big Kahuna is operated by the Hilliman family. It joins the Hilliman’s fleet of boats that include the Spirit of Buffalo sailing ship, the Harbor Queen, and the Queen City Bike Ferry.
“People can’t get enough of our exciting tiki boat experience,” said Captain Rich Hilliman of Buffalo Boat Tours. “Customers are thrilled to be out on the water, socializing with friends, and seeing our beautiful Buffalo from a whole new point of view. We look forward to welcoming new visitors and return customers on board for an excursion that will be the highlight of their summer.”
Tickets can be purchased online at buffaloboattours.com or from the kiosk on the Central Wharf at Canalside.
For more information on the Big Kahuna and other exciting activities at Canalside, please visit www.buffalowaterfront.com.
The Big Kahuna joins the other entertainment options at Canalside, including Explore & More Children’s Museum, the Buffalo Heritage Carousel, water bikes, kayaks, bike tours, festivals, and more- to build upon New York State’s $100 million investment in Buffalo’s waterfront.
City of Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said, “Bringing The Big Kahuna to Buffalo is another great attraction to add to our waterfront that will draw more people to Canalside, while giving City residents more outdoor fun this summer. Buffalo’s network of waterways is among our City’s greatest natural assets, and I thank Governor Kathy Hochul and the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation for their continued investment in Buffalo’s revitalized waterfront. What a great way to kick off the summer season!”
Senator Tim Kennedy said, "With the summer season approaching, this new tiki tour boat brings yet another opportunity for people to enjoy Buffalo's waterfront, all while navigating through iconic reminders of our city's rich history. I applaud the Hillman family for bringing yet another interactive experience to our inner and outer harbors."
Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “Within the last decade, we’ve seen Buffalo’s waterfront transformed from a neglected brownfield site to one of the region’s most bustling and visited tourist sites. The Big Kahuna represents the latest addition of highly engaging offerings that will get Western New Yorkers to reconnect with our greatest natural asset. I thank ECHDC, Buffalo Boat Tours and the Hilliman family for launching this creative new endeavor that will show its passengers our waterfront in a brand-new way.”
Buffalo City Council Member Mitch Nowakowski said, “Canalside is truly on of the gems of the Fillmore district, Buffalo and all of Western New York. I am so grateful to New York State for all of their support, and I have worked closely with Rich Hilliman to prepare for this wonderful kickoff to summer. I am excited to see people out enjoying our gorgeous waterfront this year."
Congressman Brian Higgins said, “Canalside is continuing to evolve to meet public demand for new destinations and experiences. This builds on the growing ways to explore and enjoy Buffalo’s waterfront and waterways.”
About Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation
The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) is governed by a nine-member board consisting of seven voting directors and two non-voting, ex-officio directors. The seven voting directors are recommended by the New York State Governor and are appointed by the New York State Urban Development Corporation d/b/a Empire State Development as sole shareholder of ECHDC. The two nonvoting, ex-officio director positions are held by the Erie County Executive and the City of Buffalo Mayor. For more information on ECHDC, visit: www.eriecanalharbor.com.
Contact:
Pamm Lent (Governor’s Office) | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309 | (800) 260-7313
Laura Magee (ESD/ECHDC) | [email protected] | (716) 846-8239 | (800) 260-7313