The Clean Energy Sector

From the more than 1,000 percent increase in solar power since 2011 to the yearly influx of talent in the Southern Tier via the 76West competition and the many innovations coming from colleges and universities across the state, clean energy remains a top priority for New York. Last year, Governor Cuomo announced $1.4 billion in awards for 26 large-scale renewable energy projects; the  largest single state commitment  to renewable energy in the nation. And New York’s ambitious Clean Energy Standard, designed to combat climate change—and ensure that at least 50 percent of New York State's electricity comes from renewable sources by 2030— is also driving investment and creating new jobs. Solar, wind and other alternative energy companies looking to join this progressive collective take note: The next decade will lay the foundation for the renewable future.

The Craft Beverage Industry

In March, Governor Cuomo announced the number of craft beverage manufacturers holding farm-based licenses has grown by more than 150 percent since 2012. Coupled with the nearly 1,000 licensed manufacturers of craft beverages, New York State’s craft beverage production is at an all-time high. In fact, the growing number of independent brewers, vintners and distillers has surpassed pre-Prohibition totals. Thanks to an ongoing commitment from the State, including legislation that reduces regulatory red tape, the variety of wineries, breweries and distilleries across New York continue to spur job creation while also supporting existing jobs.

The Optics, Photonics and Imaging (OPI) Industry

The modern optics industry was first born in Rochester more than 100 years ago but the region continues to drive development of new products and technology that remain at the heart of our interconnected 21st century lives. New York State’s OPI industry stretches across the Finger Lakes and employs some 18,000 people. Regional standouts include the highest concentration of OPI-related patent holders and researchers in the country as well as the two-year OPI technician associate's degree program at Monroe Community College. This year, AIM Photonics, a new facility that tests, assembles and packages chips that use photons instead of electrons to improve the performance of semiconductor circuits will become fully operational. Finally, the inaugural Luminate NY competition is the largest of any OPI business accelerator programs. Ten OPI companies brought their next-gen businesses to the region this January for six months to continue advancing the industry through the development of innovative products and services.