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Governor Hochul Announces More Than $57 Million Awarded Through Round Xiii Of The Regional Economic Development Council Initiative

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.