Empire State Development news and press releases
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Press Release
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 - 4:16pm
Event Underscores New York State's Commitment to Promote Diversity and Inclusion in the Entertainment Industry
Empire State Development (ESD), in partnership with Comcast NBCUniversal, today hosted the “ShowBizNY: Diverse Supplier Connections” Summit, at the Museum of the Moving Image in Queens. The summit, attended by more than 200 small businesses both in-person and online, connected businesses to industry professionals, relaunched the New York State Film and TV Diverse Suppliers Directory which is an online resource that helps productions identify and connect with diverse vendors, as well as MWBE certification, and provided key information for businesses to take advantage of New York’s robust film and television industry. Today's summit is part of a larger statewide initiative to increase diversity and inclusion and create equal opportunities in the film and television industry.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “ESD is proud to support the diverse supplier summit and provide opportunities through inclusionary programming that helps underrepresented communities navigate the growing film and television industry. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State continues to promote opportunity and equitable economic growth for all.”
“Comcast NBCUniversal is deeply committed to advancing the economic inclusion of underrepresented businesses. Working with diverse companies helps generate jobs, distribute wealth, and create more opportunity within our communities,” said Dalila Wilson-Scott, Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer for Comcast Corporation. “We’re proud to partner with Empire State Development to help New York business owners learn how to work with TV and film productions and understand the importance of MWBE certification to both our company and the state.”
As of January 1, 2023, film and television production companies participating in the NYS Film Production Tax Credit Program are required to submit diversity plans with goals for hiring a diverse workforce, including the hiring of diverse vendors. The Film and TV Diverse Suppliers Directory serves as a potential resource for film and television professionals to help identify and connect with these vendors as they put together their production vendor teams.
Film and television productions employ thousands of New Yorkers and contract with hundreds of small businesses and support services throughout the state, including many businesses that had never before considered their work relevant to film production. These services are vital to the industry and include a wide range of small businesses such as caterers, landscapers, tent companies, tool suppliers, security and many others. These businesses are essential and keep the cameras rolling in New York State.
New York State is home to the first-in-the-nation New York Entertainment Workforce Diversity Grant Program. The program provides financial assistance in the form of grants for job creation and training programs that support efforts to recruit, hire, promote, retain, develop and train a diverse and inclusive workforce for the motion picture and television production and post-production industries in New York State.
About the Governor’s Office of Motion Picture & Television Development
The New York State Governor’s Office of Motion Picture & Television Development, a division of Empire State Development, aims to grow and support the film, television and commercial industry by guiding filmmakers through the many programs and assets New York State has to offer, promoting and publicizing the state’s infrastructure, talent and film production, post-production, and commercial tax incentives for qualified expenditures in New York State. The office also serves as a liaison between production companies and city and local governments, state agencies, a network of statewide contacts, local film offices and professional location scouts and managers. More information on filming in New York State or the Film Production and Post Production Tax Credit Programs can be found here.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency. 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 NY," the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, please visit www.regionalcouncils.gov
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
Contact:
Kristin Devoe | [email protected] | 518-414-1087
ESD Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
Press Release
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 - 2:33pm
Funding Made Available Through Federal American Rescue Plan Grant Will Support Efforts of State's Destination Marketing Organizations
Full List of Awardees Available Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $14.2 million will be awarded to 30 tourism partners through the New York State EDA Tourism Partner Sub-Awards Grant Program. This federal COVID-19 recovery funding, made available through the United States Economic Development Administration, was awarded to New York State to support the post-pandemic recovery of the State's travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. Empire State Development's Division of Tourism competitively sub-awarded the funding to Destination Marketing Organizations throughout the state for tourism marketing projects based on the Division’s EDA grant focus areas: outdoor recreation, international tourism, and travel trade including Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions, amateur sports and group travel.
“With our breathtaking views and landscapes, vibrant arts and culture, thriving business community and more, New York is proud to welcome visitors from all over the world to experience what our state has to offer,” Governor Hochul said. "Thanks to the Biden administration and New York’s Congressional delegation, these sub-awards will help our tourism partners reach new audiences on a global scale and attract even more travelers to our state."
Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer said, “New York’s travel and tourism industries are the beating heart of our state, and this critical funding creates a unique opportunity for the federal government to boost tourism across New York by supporting small businesses, creating jobs, and investing in our local economies. The recovery from the pandemic has spurred a newfound demand for travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation throughout the state, and this vital $14.2 million of funding that I pushed to include in the American Rescue Plan will accelerate that economic recovery and allow us to come out of the pandemic even stronger than we were before.”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Every year, New York draws millions of tourists from across the country and the world. This federal funding will help us attract even more,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I thank the EDA for this award and will keep working to bring home more resources to develop our tourism sector.”
Representative Jerrold Nadler said, “It’s been over two years since President Biden signed it into law, and the American Rescue Plan continues to deliver for New Yorkers and our nation. Today’s announcement of $14.2 million in funding to New York State, with $2.1 million flowing directly to support tourism in NYC—will help sustain NY’s status as a leading destination for domestic and international travelers. I’m proud to have fought for the American Rescue Plan in Congress, which has equipped countless families, businesses, and governments with the resources necessary to weather the public health and economic crisis.”
Representative Brian Higgins said, “Tourism is a critical part of the Western New York economy, especially as northern border community. The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on this sector, halting travel and preventing local attractions from generating revenue. Thanks to a state-wide investment made by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, historic and cultural tourism and recreation across Western New York is receiving the funding it needs to continue its economic recovery, while bringing new and returning visitors to our local attractions. As our region continues to rebuild, this federal funding serves as a continued investment in businesses, parks, and destinations that support the growth and development of our community.”
Representative Paul Tonko said, “When my colleagues and I advanced the American Rescue Plan, we knew that investing strongly in travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation would be critical in ensuring our communities made a full recovery from the pandemic. These awards today are a direct result of that careful, impactful planning and will help to further boost the economic strength and vibrancy of our Capital Region and state. I look forward to seeing how these deserving awards further bolster our local economy and benefit residents and visitors alike.”
Representative Joe Morelle said, “Now is the time to invest in revitalizing our local travel industry by highlighting everything our state has to offer—from outdoor recreation in the Finger Lakes region, to the historic Underground Railroad stops around Rochester. I’m proud to have secured this federal funding for New York’s economic recovery post-pandemic, and I’m grateful to Gov. Hochul for her commitment to supporting our area’s distinctive tourism industry.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Under the leadership of Governor Hochul, New York State is rebuilding and revitalizing its vibrant and vital tourism industry. The funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration will help I LOVE NY and other tourism organizations throughout the state promote targeted activities and engage new visitors, supporting tourism's continued revival."
Empire State Development Vice President and Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, "The federal EDA grant to New York State enables I LOVE NY to expand its reach in specific travel segments. These sub-awards to our DMO colleagues from Buffalo to Long Island will allow them to complement those efforts with a regional or audience-specific approach, focusing on areas of opportunity that most resonate with their target markets. We are grateful for the Economic Development Administration's support, and proud to further support our New York tourism partners."
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Monday, April 17, 2023 - 5:15pm
Partners Chosen To Transform 2-Acre Vacant Parcel into Mixed-Use Commercial, Retail and Residential Spaces, Further Reconnecting Buffalo to its Historic Waterfront
Construction to Advance on $14.25 Million Canalside Gateway Building; Will Be First Building within Now-Vacant North Aud Block
Renderings of North Aud Block Here; Renderings of Canalside Gateway Building are Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced actions to advance construction of the Canalside Gateway Building and transformation of the North Aud Block in Buffalo, projects that are key to the ongoing revitalization of Buffalo's downtown and waterfront district. The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation met today and approved items related to both projects. Today's ECHDC authorizations are the latest project milestones in a series of related announcements by Governor Hochul. In May 2022, Governor Hochul announced the ECHDC's Request for Proposals for private development of the North Aud Block and in August 2022, Governor Hochul announced the acceleration of NYPA funding for the Buffalo Waterfront, including the Canalside Gateway Building.
"Canalside has become a destination location and catalyst for renewal of Buffalo's historic waterfront, and redeveloping the North Aud Block will continue to write the Buffalo comeback story," Governor Hochul said. "As we work to transform the Buffalo waterfront, this vacant parcel, the last of the state-owned parcels at Canalside, will boost the economy and create new spaces where residents and visitors will want to live, work and play."
In January 2022, the ECHDC Board adopted a Canalside Modified General Project Plan that described the community-supported development plan for the North Aud Block. The plan envisions transformation of the nearly 2-acre vacant parcel for a mix of commercial, retail and residential uses in several buildings that would reflect portions of the original 19th century street grid while also adapting and incorporating 21st century infrastructure and amenities. As adopted, the estimated development plan for the North Aud Block parcel includes nearly 425,000 gross square feet of development space and up to 450 parking spaces in a structured ramp. The Canalside North Aud Block development plan also includes the "Canalside Gateway Building," a multi-story, state-funded structure that will allow the ECHDC to manage site operations from a location within Canalside. The remainder of the North Aud Block will be dedicated to mixed-use development.
Read the full press release here.
Board Meeting
Monday, April 17, 2023 - 10:30am
With videoconferencing to: Empire State Development, 633 Third Avenue – 37th 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, April 17, 2023.
RSVP press line (800) 260-7313; RSVP Buffalo press line (716) 846-8239; RSVP public line (212) 803-3795
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, April 17, 2023.
All comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the Directors prior to the meeting and will be posted online.
Press Release
Sunday, April 16, 2023 - 2:00pm
World's Top Women's Hockey Players Will Compete in the Mohawk Valley in Spring 2024
Prestigious International Competition Returns to New York After 30 Years
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that Utica was selected as the host city for the 2024 International Ice Hockey Federation World Women's Championship, tentatively slated for April 4-14, 2024. USA Hockey will host the event in conjunction with the Upper Mohawk Valley Memorial Auditorium Authority and the Adirondack Bank Center and the Utica University Nexus Center. The IIHF World Women's Championship is the premier international tournament in women's ice hockey. Utica will welcome ten international teams, 350 players, 30,000 local spectators and 20,000 overnight spectators to the Mohawk Valley.
"The 2024 IIHF World Women's Championship in Utica will mark the next chapter of New York's winter sports legacy," Governor Hochul said. "As the home of the 1994 IIHF World Women's Championship, as well as the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics and this year's FISU Winter World University Games, New York State is proud of its commitment to winter sports and tourism. Now, thanks to significant State investments and upgrades to local infrastructure, Utica and Oneida County are gearing up to host thousands of athletes and spectators for the world's most competitive women's ice hockey tournament and welcome the world to the Mohawk Valley."
International Ice Hockey Federation President Luc Tardif said, "On behalf of the IIHF, I would like to congratulate the City of Utica for earning the honor of hosting the 2024 IIHF Women's World Championship. It is wonderful to be back in the United States for this important women's tournament, and even more so to return to the state of New York, which has more recently hosted the IIHF Ice Hockey U18 Women's World Championship and the IIHF World Junior Championship but has not hosted the Women's Worlds since way back in 1994. The last time the IIHF Women's World Championship was hosted by USA Hockey was back in 2017, which, history has shown, was one of the most important and exciting IIHF events ever. A lot has changed in the women's game from 1994 to 2017 to today, and although fans will certainly be thrilled to witness another chapter in the exceptional United States-Canada rivalry, we also encourage people to watch the teams from Europe and the Far East that are catching up and closing the gap. Finland and Sweden, Czechia and Switzerland, Germany and Japan have all had exceptional performances in Brampton, Ontario, in 2023, and we expect these nations to challenge the North Americans even more in 2024."
Read the full press release here.
Public Notice
Wednesday, April 12, 2023 - 6:00pm
View Public Notice
Public Notice
Tuesday, April 11, 2023 - 5:00pm
View Public Notice
Public Hearing Instructions
Modified General Project Plan and Lease Modification
Public Notice
Tuesday, April 11, 2023 - 2:00pm
View all grants to be presented at the batch virtual public hearing.
Press Release
Tuesday, April 11, 2023 - 10:53am
$100 Million of Federal Funding Will be Available to Provide Fast and Affordable High-Speed Internet to Underserved Communities in Rural and Urban Areas that Lack Critical Service
Part of Governor Hochul’s $1.2 Billion ConnectALL Initiative to Bring Affordable and Equitable Broadband to All New Yorkers
Survey Available Here
Empire State Development (ESD) and Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) are encouraging owners and managers of affordable housing properties across the state to indicate their interest in the $100 Million Affordable Residential Connectivity Program, which will provide no-cost installation of fiber broadband wiring and equipment upgrades under Governor Kathy Hochul's ConnectALL initiative. ESD and HCR are asking property owners and managers to indicate interest in receiving these fiber installations at no cost, regardless of whether properties already have broadband wiring. Following the survey, interested parties will be contacted with a more detailed application.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Having reliable, accessible and affordable broadband is essential to our economy and our quality of life. This program is a vital component of Governor Hochul’s ConnectALL initiative and will connect all New Yorkers, especially in communities that have historically been left behind."
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "As we found out during the pandemic, New Yorkers need affordable, dependable broadband for work, school, and to access critical services. That’s why HCR is committed to seeing as many affordable housing developments as possible take advantage of this $100 million Affordable Residential Connectivity Program that is poised to deliver reliable internet into 100,000 homes. Every owner of affordable housing who is interested in a no-cost way to bring this essential service to their tenants should complete the quick survey and take an important step toward closing the digital divide."
Governor Hochul, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand recently announced that New York State was awarded this federal funding from the U.S. Department of Treasury through the American Rescue Plan to expand high-speed internet. This is the largest targeted investment in affordable housing connectivity in the nation. New York estimates this funding will allow them to connect 100,000 homes and families to affordable, high-speed internet across the state by providing affordable housing properties with new or upgraded fiber broadband so that those residents can access internet service options that are high-speed and offered at an affordable monthly price.
Through this program, building owners will work with pre-approved Internet Service Providers (ISPs) that will design and install the fiber running to each affordable home. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State has been leading the nation in closing the digital divide. Last year, New York enrolled one million qualifying households in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program, a nationwide subsidy to expand broadband access to low-income households. The federal program, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provides discounts of up to $30 a month toward internet service for eligible low-income households.
Governor Hochul’s $1.2 billion ConnectALL initiative has made significant investments in mapping and data collection; grant programs to support municipal open-access infrastructure, rural broadband projects, and innovative service delivery pilots; broadband upgrades in affordable housing; reforms to streamline deployment and remove regulatory hurdles; and the development of a Statewide Digital Equity Plan and Digital Equity Grant Program. Last year, the ConnectALL office supplemented the federal FCC broadband data by providing more than 31,000 addresses to help the better address the needs of New York communities unserved or underserved by broadband.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) is New York's chief economic development agency. 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 New York State Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of "I LOVE NY," the State's iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, please visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.
About Homes and Community Renewal
HCR develops, preserves and protects affordable housing and invests in economically vibrant communities. HCR works with many private, public and nonprofit partners to create safe, healthy and affordable housing opportunities for all New Yorkers. HCR is charged with carrying out Governor Hochul’s new $25 billion, five-year, comprehensive housing plan to increase housing supply by creating or preserving 100,000 affordable homes across New York including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes.
Contact:
Kristin Devoe | (518) 414-1087 | [email protected]
ESD Press Office | (800) 260-7313 | [email protected]
Board Meeting
Tuesday, April 11, 2023 - 9:30am
The meeting is open to the public.
Please Note:
Due to building procedures, members of the public attending in-person should please RSVP by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, April 10, 2023.
Members of the press should please call (800) 260-7313; Members of the public should please call (212) 803-3795.
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 noon on Monday, April 10, 2023.
All comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the Directors prior to the meeting and will be posted online.