Empire State Development Blog

Find the latest news on economic development in New York State

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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Press Release

Wednesday, November 15, 2023 - 12:29pm
Funding Through Round XIII of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative Environmental Protection Fund to Support 72 Projects; Recreational Trails Program to Support 15 Projects Current List of REDC Awardees Found Here Governor Kathy Hochul today announced new awards through Round XIII of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative with $26.6 million awarded through the state-funded Environmental Protection Fund to support 72 projects and $2.4 million from the federally funded Recreational Trails Program for 15 projects. "These initiatives plant new seeds for growth, helping communities across New York State realize new potential whether that means attracting new visitors, solidifying important landmarks or new investment," Governor Hochul said. "The Regional Economic Development Councils are committed to growth, restoration and economic viability." "The Regional Economic Development Council Initiative is all about building a stronger New York State,” said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, Chair of the Statewide Regional Economic Development Councils. "We rely on our municipalities and not-for-profit organizations to work together to identify the needs and regional priorities including parks and historic areas and make sure they have the resources necessary to reach their goals. Congratulations to these recipients from 43 counties across the Empire State." The grants from the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) support 72 projects including park improvements, heritage area enhancements and historic preservation projects. The grants for the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) support 15 projects. The RTP is an assistance program with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration. In New York State, both the EPF and RTP are administered by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP). The EPF Grant Program for Parks, Heritage and Preservation supports matching grants for the acquisition, planning, development, and improvement of parks, historic properties, and heritage areas located within New York. Funds are awarded to municipalities or not-for-profits with an ownership interest. The RTP Grant Program supports matching grants to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both motorized and non-motorized trail uses. Funds are awarded to municipalities or not-for-profits with an ownership interest. Read the full press release here.
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Press Release

Wednesday, November 15, 2023 - 12:01pm
Grants Awarded Through REDC Initiative to 59 Capital and Working Capital Projects Across New York State Full List of REDC Awardees To-Date Can be Found Here Empire State Development (ESD) today announced that nearly $15 million has been awarded through the Market New York program to support 59 projects across New York State through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Market New York funding supports tourism capital improvement projects and regionally-themed marketing projects that promote travel destinations, attractions and special events. The program and projects supported through its funding align with each region's long-term strategic plans for economic growth. In total, nearly $122 million has been awarded through the Market New York program to assist over 640 regional tourism projects across the state. "New York is home to countless unique and diverse attractions throughout the state that welcome visitors from around the world," said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, Chair of the Statewide Regional Economic Development Councils. "This year's Market New York awards will help to support new projects and promotional efforts that will further grow our tourism economy, support our communities, and promote world-class destinations." ESD President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "The tourism and hospitality industry is one of New York State's economic pillars, generating revenue and supporting jobs in communities from Niagara Falls to Montauk Point. Through the Market New York program, we continue to work together with our tourism partners to encourage greater visitation and catalyze new regional economic growth." ESD Vice President and Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, "Market New York grants help bring tourism capital projects from concept to reality, and provide working capital to promote and encourage visitors to experience unique New York State attractions, activities and events. The program enables local and regional partners to complement and further amplify I LOVE NY's efforts promoting tourism throughout the entire state. The nearly 60 projects across the state awarded funding this year – representing so many different themes and interests – will show visitors and residents alike how easy it is to love New York." The Market New York program provides flexibility for applicants to identify projects that will strengthen tourism and attract visitors to New York State by promoting destinations, attractions and special events. Particular consideration is given to projects that closely align with I LOVE NY areas of concentration, including showcasing New York's world-class destinations, spurring international tourism, promoting outdoor recreation, engaging the travel trade, focusing on niche tourism segments and highlighting large scale special events like those related to the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Projects awarded funding through Market New York Round 13 include: Art Omi, Inc. (Capital Region) – $2 Million Capital Grant: The arts center located in Ghent, Columbia County will use the grant to fund a portion of a major capital project that will include 18 pavilions, anchored by a visitor's center. Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park (Central New York) – $432,000 Capital Grant: This Syracuse zoo will use grant funds to construct a Botanical Garden and replace the existing audio/video equipment with a state-of-the-art enhanced system. Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Inc. (Finger Lakes) – $118,000 Working Capital Grant: In collaboration with the ROC2024 Total Solar Eclipse Task Force, the Philharmonic will use the grant funds to host and promote a special community concert at Blue Cross Arena on Sunday, April 7, the evening preceding the eclipse. Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (Long Island) – $125,000 Working Capital Grant: Located in Stony Brook, Suffolk County, the Hall of Fame will use tourism marketing funding to host and promote a year-long exhibition featuring the life and music of world-renowned artist Billy Joel with the debut of the "Billy Joel-My Life" exhibit. Phoenix Theatre Ensemble (Mid-Hudson) – $120,000 Working Capital Grant: Funding will support the theatre's efforts to host and promote the Phoenix Festival: Live Arts tourism special event welcoming visitors to experience New York's Hudson Valley. Oneida County (Mohawk Valley) – $125,000 Working Capital Grant: Funding will support the county's promotional efforts for the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Women's Championship, a 16-day tournament that is expected to bring more than 80,000 visitors to the Mohawk Valley. BRIC Arts Media (New York City) – $75,000 Working Capital Grant: Funding will support marketing and promotional activities for BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! (BCB) Festival season. BCB is New York City's longest-running free summer music and performing arts festival, featuring local and global artists, with a reach of more than 250,000 people annually. Sandy Main, Inc. (North Country) – $97,400 Working Capital Grant: The Adirondack Fragrance & Flavor Farm in Potsdam, St. Lawrence County, will use the funding to promote a tourism initiative around the April 8 solar eclipse. This project will enhance accommodation capacity, foster regional partnerships, and showcase the beauty of the Adirondack region. Tanglewood Community Nature Center, Inc. (Southern Tier) – $600,000 Capital Grant: The Nature Center will use grant funds to support a portion of the costs to construct a Canopy Walkway in the heart Elmira, Chemung County, creating a new perspective for the natural environment, and bringing people eye-level with the tree canopy and its many inhabitants. Buffalo Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. (Western New York) –$100,000 Working Capital Grant: Funding will support the development and implementation of Freedom's Footsteps, a destination marketing initiative designed to promote and generate economic activity in Buffalo's African American heritage sector. By sharing the previously untold stories of Buffalo’s African American heritage, the Freedom’s Footsteps initiative will inspire visitation to the area and overall region. A full list of projects awarded through the REDC initiative can be found here. Governor Kathy Hochul has supported and prioritized New York’s tourism industry – one of the state's key economic drivers. The governor recently announced record-breaking visitation and tourism spending in New York State with more than 291 million visitors generating more than $78.6 billion in direct spending in 2022. Under her leadership, new programs like the I LOVE NY Black travel initiative have been launched to expand visitation, and the historic "Bring Back Tourism, Bring Back Jobs" pandemic recovery package supported travel industry businesses and employees, and brought new events to the state. Earlier this year, the governor announced more than $14 million in grants were awarded to 30 local and regional destination marketing organizations through the EDA Tourism Partner Sub-Awards Grant Program. Additionally, Governor Hochul has announced game changing improvements to tourism infrastructure like state parks and airports, as well as comprehensive I LOVE NY marketing efforts to encourage travel throughout New York State. About the Consolidated Funding Application The Consolidated Funding Application was created to streamline and expedite the grant application process. The CFA process marks a fundamental shift in the way state resources are allocated, ensuring less bureaucracy and greater efficiency to fulfill local economic development needs. The CFA serves as the single-entry point for access to economic development funding, ensuring applicants no longer have to slowly navigate multiple agencies and sources without any mechanism for coordination. Now, economic development projects use the CFA as a support mechanism to access multiple state funding sources through one application, making the process quicker, easier, and more productive. Learn more about the CFA here. About the Regional Economic Development Councils The Regional Economic Development Council initiative is a key component of the State’s approach to State investment and economic development. In 2011, 10 Regional Councils were established to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth for their regions. The Councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-governmental organizations. The Regional Councils have redefined the way New York invests in jobs and economic growth by putting in place a community-based, bottom up approach and establishing a competitive process for State resources. Learn more at regionalcouncils.ny.gov. About New York State New York State is a premier vacation destination with world-class attractions, picturesque natural beauty, locally sourced cuisine and a vibrant craft beverage scene, an array of accommodations, and iconic, year-round festivals and events. Its 11 diverse vacation regions feature some of the world's top ranked beaches; two out of America's top three favorite state parks; breathtaking Niagara Falls; more ski areas than any other state; one of the nation's longest foliage seasons; multiple Halls of Fame; the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States; and the country's longest multi-use trail. Add in the state's unique museums, historic landmarks, cultural sites, charming small towns and urban playgrounds, and it's no wonder New York has been consistently chosen as a top getaway by travel publications and experts. To help plan your next New York State vacation, visit www.iloveny.com. Contact: ESD Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
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Press Release

Tuesday, November 14, 2023 - 11:43am
Governor Secured $11 Million Investment in FY 2023 Budget to Enhance MWBE Certification Efficiency and Reduce Certification Wait Times Governor Also Announces Nation-Leading MWBE Utilization in New York State Contracting for Third Years in a Row MWBE Annual Report Available Here Governor Kathy Hochul today celebrated the elimination of New York’s yearslong certification backlog for minority- and women-owned business enterprises following a transformative $11 million investment secured by the Governor in the FY 2023 Budget to improve certification efficiency. The historic milestone, announced at the New York MWBE Forum in Albany, means that Empire State Development’s Division of Minority- and Women-Owned Business Development will be operating without a backlog of certification application for the first time in decades. Governor Hochul also announced that New York State has exceeded its goal for MWBE utilization on New York State contracts with a utilization rate of 32.30 percent during the 2023 Fiscal Year, the highest MWBE utilization rate in the country for the third year in a row. Nearly $3 billion in State contracts were awarded to MWBE firms during the 2023 Fiscal Year, and nearly $29 billion in State contracts have been awarded to MWBEs since 2011. The latest data is available here in the 2023 MWBE Report. "The backlog in the MWBE system was unfair, it was unjust, and now it's history. Minority- and women-owned businesses are critical to New York's long-term economic success, and I made it a top priority to finally end the backlog so these entrepreneurs had the tools they need to grow and thrive,” Governor Hochul said. “New York is leveraging significant investments to empower minority and women business owners, achieve unprecedented MWBE utilization, and build a more equitable, more inclusive business environment." In August 2021, Governor Hochul inherited a significant MWBE certification backlog with thousands of applications pending approval. At that time, application review and processing could take as long as 499 days. As part of Governor Hochul’s commitment to supporting MWBEs, the Governor proposed an overhaul of New York’s MWBE program in her 2022 State of the State address and secured an $11 million investment in the FY 2023 Budget to reduce certification wait times and eliminate the certification backlog. With the resources provided by Governor Hochul, ESD developed a multi-pronged plan to eliminate the backlog beginning on February 1, 2023, which included improvements to optimize application flow, new and improved tools to track and monitor the progress of applications; quality assurance reviews to ensure consistency with regulations; staffing surges; and expanded training for analysts. ESD also established specialized teams to review certifications in phases – one targeting active applications and another handling unreviewed submissions. New York’s Chief Diversity Officer Julissa Gutierrez said, “Governor Hochul has maintained a steadfast commitment to ensuring that New York’s economy is not only growing, but also inclusive of the many communities that make our state so great. Under her leadership, New York’s MWBE progress has seen unprecedented progress, and thanks to funding she secured, the elimination of the MWBE certification backlog will put thousands of New York businesses on a path to success.” Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Improving the certification process and eliminating the MWBE certification backlog opens the door to economic growth and advancement for Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises across New York State. By removing systemic obstacles, we empower diverse businesses and entrepreneurs to realize their full potential, spur local job creation, encourage new investments, and cultivate statewide economic development. I want to thank the Governor for making this a priority and our dedicated ESD team whose tireless work made it possible.” Read the full press release here.
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Report

Tuesday, November 14, 2023 - 6:57am
ESD's Division of Minority and Women’s Business Development oversees the statewide MWBE program operated by state agencies as defined by Article 15-A. Below please find the annual DMWBD report for Fiscal Year 2022-2023. View the Report
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Press Release

Monday, November 13, 2023 - 2:55pm
First Batch of Empire State Development Grant Fund Awards Includes Over $46 Million to Support 47 Shovel-Ready Projects Over $9.7 Million in Capital Grants to 108 Craft Beverage Manufacturers and 62 Non-Profit Organizations Full List of Round XIII Awardees Can Be Found Here Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $57 million has been awarded to support 238 projects across New York State through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Round XIII included Empire State Development grant funds and Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits, which was made available on a continuous and competitive basis to support the immediate needs of communities. Over $46 million in funding from these programs will support impactful projects that align with each region’s strategic goals. Round XIII also included two new micro grant programs: the Craft Beverage Micro Grant Program and the Not-for-Profit Capital Grant Program which awarded over $9.7 million to support 170 craft beverage manufacturers and non-profit organizations throughout the state.  “New York State is supporting our growing communities by investing in shovel-ready projects that will encourage job creation and help boost local economies,” Governor Hochul said. “The range of these projects reflects crucial Regional Economic Development Council input from the stakeholders who know their local assets and industries best, helping us to make strategic investments to create opportunity in our communities, both now and for the future.”   The application for Empire State Development Grant funds remains open, and applications are being reviewed on an on-going basis until funds are exhausted. Applicants with strong, shovel-ready projects that align with the state and region's economic development priorities can apply through the Consolidated Funding Application. Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, Chair of the Regional Economic Development Councils, said, "The Regional Economic Development Councils continue to help connect strategic investments to historically distressed communities throughout New York State. Through this process of identifying and funding shovel-ready projects that align with REDC strategic plans and goals, the funding goes where it’s needed and where it will have the biggest impact. By working closely with the REDCs, I know that these awards will make a difference in growth, jobs and educational opportunities for so many New Yorkers.”  Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “From supporting STEM education and manufacturing to workforce development, childcare and more, the REDCs are guiding the needs and the future success of their regions through projects that will have a lasting economic impact. Two new micro-grant programs will also help to grow our robust craft beverage industry and support the important work of nonprofits throughout New York State.”  Read the full press release here.
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Press Release

Monday, November 13, 2023 - 12:10pm
Projects Promote Governor Hochul’s Vision for a First-Rate Visitor Experience The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) Board of Directors met today to approve several items that represent Governor Kathy Hochul’s vision for the continued revitalization and maintenance of the Buffalo waterfront. The board endorsed three contracts for the management of the public space, facilities, and grounds to enrich the programs for families to enjoy at both Canalside and the Outer Harbor. “The contracts approved today continue the great momentum and progress we have seen on Buffalo’s waterfront under Governor Hochul’s leadership,” said ECHDC Chairperson Joan Kesner. “The success at Canalside and the Outer Harbor is spurring the first private investment in Buffalo’s waterfront in more than 50 years – which is attracting more visitors to Western New York and making the citizens of Buffalo even prouder of our rich history.” The Board of Directors today voted to enter into a seven-year contract with Be Our Guest, Ltd., doing business as the Rich Entertainment Group, to continue providing hospitality and programming on the waterfront. This is a revenue-generating contract that has no cost to ECHDC.  A percentage of the profits will be allocated from Rich Entertainment Group to ECHDC. The terms of the Agreement will include: a base flat fee that increases each year; a percentage of gross sponsorship:  a percentage of gross revenue; and a portion of live event ticket sales. Rich Entertainment Group has managed the Outer Harbor since 2016 and Canalside since 2017. As ECHDC creates more structures and open space are created for public access, a third-party operator is required to manage the utilization of the spaces and maintain the overall activity schedule Canalside and the Outer Harbor are increasingly popular sites for a range of large events, from local community group gatherings to yearly concert series featuring national music acts. On a smaller scale, the sites have been used for everything from yoga classes and boat tours to athletic clinics and history lectures.  The contract requires the Rich Entertainment Group, as the operator, to continue to provide the following services: HOSPITALITY SERVICES Operator will provide staff to work in customer-facing roles like the reception desk at the Gateway Building and the front office of the transient boater office. Associates will also staff the information kiosk on the boardwalk, respond to customer inquiries via social media and the Buffalo Waterfront email and phone line. PROGRAMMING Operator will be responsible for managing, coordinating and advertising the programming, at all locations throughout the year, with an aim of maximizing and lengthening visits, and encouraging return visits by the public. FOOD, BEVERAGE AND MERCHANDISE They are responsible for developing, managing, stocking and staffing a new, boutique retail location in the Gateway Building at Canalside. This 600-square-foot space will open to the public in May 2026 and should provide a range of Buffalo Waterfront and Buffalo-centric merchandise, as well as drink and snack food takeaway options.  MARKETING/ADVERTISING Operator will develop a marketing and advertising plan, along with a media buy budget to promote the diverse activities at the Buffalo Waterfront. Advertising in print and electronic media, as well as on billboards and in local print, is expected.  OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE They are also responsible for all cleaning/janitorial, waste management and pest control, repairs/restoration, and maintenance associated with hospitality services, programming, food and beverage and merchandise. MANAGEMENT & STAFFING As part of the yearly plan, Rich Entertainment Group will provide adequate staffing and management oversight to ensure the continual improvement of quality, customer service. “We’re grateful to the ECHDC Board of Directors and to Governor Kathy Hochul for their trust and confidence in our team to continue and enhance the quality programming and services we provide at two of Buffalo’s most iconic public spaces,” said Kevin Parkinson, vice president of finance and operations for Rich Entertainment Group. “We look forward to continuing to host the popular live music, family programming and engaging events that have made our city’s waterfront a destination for both residents and tourists.” The second contract approved by the ECHDC board was also awarded to Rich Entertainment Group for facilities management services.  The $10,974,059 contract, funded by the New York Power Authority, requires the operator to provide all staffing, materials, fuels and supplies required for general operations and maintenance of buildings, structures, utility systems, rink/fountain, public spaces, FF&E, vehicles, capital project management, seasonal transitions, daily custodian services, etc. Scope of services may include, but not be limited to: the operation, maintenance, cleaning, repair, preventative maintenance, renovation, addition to or modification of the structures, property and systems. The Contract will cover fees and expenses for a period of five years, ending on March 31, 2029. The third contract approved by the board is for grounds management services. Elbers Landscape Service was selected to provide all staffing, materials, fuels and supplies required for groundskeeping services, lawns, landscapes, trees, shrubs, seasonal horticulture, snow removal, grounds and landscaping capital project management, seasonal transitions, and invasive species management throughout the property. The $3,016,561 contract runs through March 2029.   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 non-voting, ex-officio director positions are held by the Erie County Executive and the City of Buffalo Mayor. As a subsidiary of Empire State Development, the state’s chief economic development agency, the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation supports and promotes the creation of infrastructure and public activities at Canalside, the Ohio Street corridor and the Outer Harbor that is attracting critical mass, private investment and enhance the enjoyment of the waterfront for residents and tourists in Western New York. Its vision is to revitalize Western New York’s waterfront and restore economic growth to Buffalo based on the region’s legacy of pride, urban significance, and natural beauty. Contact: Pamm Lent | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309 | (800) 260-7313  
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Board Meeting

Monday, November 13, 2023 - 12:00pm
With Video Conferencing to: Empire State Development  - Long Island Regional Office, 115 Broadhollow Road – Suite 250, Melville, New York 11747 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 wishing to attend in-person at either location should please RSVP by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, November 10, 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 4:30 p.m. on Friday, November 10, 2023. All comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the Directors prior to the meeting and will posted online.
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Board Meeting

Monday, November 13, 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 Friday, November 10. RSVP press line (800) 260-7313; RSVP public line (518) 292-5105.
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Board Meeting

Monday, November 13, 2023 - 10:30am
With videoconferencing to: Empire State Development, 633 Third Avenue – 35th Floor Conference Room, New York, New York 10017 The meeting is open to the public. Please Note: Those attending at either location must RSVP by 9:00 a.m. on Monday, November 13, 2023. RSVP press line (800) 260-7313; RSVP Buffalo press line (716) 846-8239; RSVP public line (212) 803-3772 The public may listen to the meeting via webcast by clicking the link below. Members of the public may submit comments on the Agenda items in writing to [email protected] by 9:00 am on Monday, November 13, 2023. All comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the Directors prior to the meeting and will be posted online.
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Press Release

Friday, November 10, 2023 - 4:57pm
New York State and Puerto Rico Economic Opportunity Advisory Council Will Explore, Propose, and Help Implement Policies to Strengthen New York and Puerto Rican Economies Council’s Priorities Will Include First-in-the-Nation Life Science Exchange to Advance Research and Innovation, Partnership With New York’s ConnectALL Broadband Office and Puerto Rico’s Smart Island Initiative, and Efforts to Strengthen Healthcare Programs Governor Kathy Hochul and Puerto Rico Governor Pedro Pierluisi today launched the New York State and Puerto Rico Economic Opportunity Advisory Council, a group of administration officials appointed by Governor Hochul and Governor Pierluisi, to strengthen ties between New York and Puerto Rico and advance shared economic priorities. The council will explore, propose, and help implement policies to strengthen the New York and Puerto Rican economies. As part of the announcement, Governor Hochul and Governor Pierluisi also unveiled three new economic development partnerships between New York State and Puerto Rico that will serve as the Council’s first priorities, which will seek to support the growing life sciences sector, collaborate in efforts to bridge the digital divide, and join forces on healthcare programs and policies to improve the lives of New Yorkers and Puerto Ricans. Each sector offers opportunities for New York and Puerto Rico to leverage state, territory, and federal investments and strengthen economic and social ties between Puerto Rico and New York, which has one of the largest populations of Puerto Rican residents outside of Puerto Rico. “This new advisory council marks the start of an exciting new chapter in New York’s unwavering partnership with Governor Pierluisi and the island of Puerto Rico,” Governor Hochul said. “With this group of talented public servants at the helm, the New York State and Puerto Rico Economic Opportunity Advisory Council will help us double down on our commitments to building modern, 21st century economies, starting by boosting our life sciences sectors, eliminating barriers to broadband access, and strengthening our healthcare systems.” Read the full press release here.  
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