Empire State Development public notices
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Press Release
Thursday, April 27, 2023 - 9:04am
Office has Awarded $13 Million to 22 Innovative Training Programs Across the State
Read Executive Summary Here
Read Full Progress Report Here
Empire State Development (ESD) today released the first progress report from its Office of Strategic Workforce Development (OSWD), announced by Governor Hochul in her 2022 State of the State address to reimagine New York State’s approach to strategic, collaborative and equitable workforce development. The report, which provides detailed information regarding the implementation of the Governor’s $350 million Workforce Development Initiative, includes an update on OSWD’s $150 million workforce development grant programs and other major milestones since its creation in April 2022 as part of the FY 2023 Budget. Subsequent progress reports will be issued on an annual basis.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Our Office of Strategic Workforce Development has hit the ground running and is continuing to make strategic investments that will train employees for New York State’s high growth industries and will provide our workforce with the tools they need to succeed today, and for the future. We are also laying the important groundwork for standardized and quantifiable metrics to evaluate and track the impact these grants are making across industries, organizations and participants to guide future rounds of funding.”
New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “I thank Governor Hochul for her unending commitment to ensuring all New Yorkers receive accessible, quality training services to gain the skills they need to thrive in our economy. I am so proud to be part of this collaborative effort that will continue to put New Yorkers on the path to success for years to come.”
Since the Office’s creation, OSWD has established the $115 million Pay for Performance and the $35 million Workforce Development Capital Grant Programs to meet the needs of New York State employers in high-growth industries, increase the capacity of workforce training providers, and better position New Yorkers to fill high-quality, in-demand jobs. The Office launched its $150 million grant program and awarded over $13 million to launch and grow 22 innovative programs to prepare New Yorkers for careers in advanced manufacturing, biotech and life sciences, cleantech and renewable energy, construction, photonics, film and television production and software and digital media. These grant programs will leverage more than $10 million in public and private funding to support nearly 7,000 trainees for over 200 businesses.
It has also developed a new metrics reporting framework to better track outcomes and prioritize investment in effective workforce models. All awardees are required to report standardized outcomes data throughout the grant period and beyond, including training completion and job placements rates, and will seek to track wage growth for participants, among other data. These metrics will allow ESD to evaluate the impact of funded programs and adapt its grantmaking strategy in future rounds to meet the needs of job seekers and employers. ESD is also charged with reporting on the success of other workforce programs funded through the FY 2023 budget and is collaborating with sister agencies to align metrics and report on the overall impact of the State’s investments across the workforce development ecosystem.
Additional information about OSWD’s progress, including active and upcoming projects and investments, are also available in the report.
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.
Contact:
Kristin Devoe | [email protected] | (518) 414-1087
ESD Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
Report
Wednesday, April 26, 2023 - 10:47am
View Report
Press Release
Wednesday, April 26, 2023 - 10:22am
Condiment Manufacturer, Featured on YouTube Show ‘Hot Ones’, Commits to Creating Nearly 40 New Jobs
Investment Complements “Finger Lakes Forward” – The Region’s Comprehensive Strategy to Revitalize Communities and Grow the Economy
Empire State Development (ESD) today announced that farm-to-table hot sauce and condiments producer, The Karma Sauce Company, is ready to grow its manufacturing operations in the City of Rochester, Monroe County and at its Burning Springs Farm in the Town of Bristol, Ontario County. The Karma Sauce line is hand-processed and bottled at 90 Canal Street in Rochester where the company is ready to upgrade its 10,000 square-foot manufacturing facility by purchasing additional equipment in an effort to keep up with the growing demand for its renowned products. Karma Sauce has additionally committed to creating up to 37 new jobs over the next five years;10 jobs will be retained. With an eye towards future expansion, the company is also currently working to become Safe Quality Food (SQF) certified, which in turn will open them up to supplying national and worldwide retailers and food service provider/manufacturers who require that certification.
Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, "It's so exciting to see entrepreneurs realize their dreams and I congratulate Karma Sauce on growing its state-of-the-art facility in the Finger Lakes, where locally sourced ingredients are key to the brand’s popularity. This hot sauce maker will also heat up the regional economy with the addition of good-paying jobs, in an expansion that also reflects New York’s ongoing support of the state’s agribusiness ecosystem."
Founded in 2008, The Karma Sauce Company designs recipes, grows the ingredients used, and handcrafts its own sauces in its micro-factory in Rochester. Word of mouth acclaim, including being featured in 2018 on the YouTube Channel show ‘Hot Ones’, led to an expanded line of over twenty distinctively flavored products, made with vegetables grown on its farm located in the Town of Bristol in Ontario County. Other locally sourced ingredients are also featured in Karma Sauce products. The expansion will additionally create future job opportunities on the farm.
Gene Olczak, founder of The Karma Sauce Company said, "From our humble beginnings over a decade ago, we are thrilled to be expanding our operations here in New York state. This investment will not only allow us to keep up with the growing demand for our products but also create good-paying jobs and contribute to the local economy. We are grateful for the support of Empire State Development and our local partners in helping us share our love of flavorful, farm-to-table condiments with the world. "
ESD is supporting the company’s expansion in New York state with up to $400,000 in performance-based Excelsior Tax Credits in exchange for the company's job creation commitments. Monroe County, the City of Rochester, Rochester Gas & Electric (RG&E) and Greater Rochester Enterprise (GRE) are also assisting with the project. The total project cost has been placed at a little more than $1 million.
This project additionally supports the locally designed strategy of the Finer Lakes Regional Economic Development Council (FLREDC) which is laser focused on supporting next generation manufacturing and technology in the agriculture and food production industries in an effort to move the region forward.
State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Congratulations Karma Sauce on your current success and expansion. It is always a cause for celebration to see a local company continue to grow and invest in our region. I look forward to seeing Karma continue to grow here in Rochester and stand ready to assist them however possible.”
State Assemblymember Demond Meeks said, “I am grateful to see a clear investment toward providing well-paying jobs and economic opportunities for members of our community. As our city begins a process of major revitalization, it is important that we continue to support the growth and success of local businesses such as the Karma Sauce Company. Congratulations to the family and staff of Karma Sauce on their significant expansion and for their continued commitment to Greater Rochester.”
State Senator Pam Helming said, “From our family farms that give us fresh, locally-grown ingredients, to the tremendous resources available to support food innovators, the Finger Lakes is one of the ‘hottest’ spots to grow and thrive in food, beverage and agribusiness. Congratulations to Gene Olczak and the entire Karma Sauce team on their continued success.”
State Assemblywoman Marjorie Byrnes said, “This is very exciting news for the entire region. The continued success of Karma Sauce demonstrates the importance of shopping small and supporting local.”
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said, “Monroe County is proud to be home to a dynamic and innovative company expanding its operations here and contributing to our local economy and culinary landscape. This expansion not only supports local job growth but also showcases the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Monroe County's economy. Congratulations to Karma Sauce Company on their continued success.”
City of Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans said, “I want to congratulate Karma Sauce on their expansion and thank them for making this investment in Rochester. Thank you as well to Governor Kathy Hochul and Empire State Development for supporting Rochester’s economy through Finger Lakes Forward. Together we creating a safe, equitable and prosperous Rochester by inspiring hope and delivering opportunity for everyone.”
President and CEO of RG&E and NYSEG Patricia Nilsen, said, “As a company celebrating its 175th year in the greater Rochester area, RG&E is delighted to see The Karma Sauce Company expand its operations in this thriving community. We are always excited to support new and growing businesses and deliver the energy that makes their operations successful.”
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO and Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chair Bob Duffy said, "We're thrilled to see Karma Sauce Company, a company committed to locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, continue to grow and create jobs in the Finger Lakes region. This investment is a testament to the company's success and the strength of our regional economy, and we look forward to supporting their continued expansion."
Matt Hurlbutt, president and CEO, Greater Rochester Enterprise said, “Karma Sauce’s continued expansion is a testament to the robust food manufacturing ecosystem in the Greater Rochester, NY, region. The full range of resources including rich agriculture to source products locally, talented workforce with food science expertise, and a strategic location that makes it easy to transport products to customers quickly, are the unique ingredients available in Rochester, NY that support Karma Sauce’s growth.
For more information about Karma Sauce, visit: https://karmasauce.com/.
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
Press Release
Tuesday, April 25, 2023 - 3:52pm
Project Will Reimagine Key City Gateway, Strengthen Neighborhood Connectivity and Create Proving Ground for Pop-Up Businesses, Events and Programming
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of construction on the Clinton Market Collective project that will renovate Federal Park at the corner of Clinton Avenue and Broadway into the Clinton Market Collective. The project, sponsored by Capitalize Albany, is receiving $1.16 million as part of the $10 million Albany Downtown Revitalization Initiative. The $3.56 million project also was recommended for a $750,000 Empire State Development capital grant from the Capital Regional Economic Development Council, a $1.1 million American Rescue Plan Act award from the City of Albany, and a $250,000 grant from National Grid.
"The Clinton Market Collective project is the latest example of how our investments are transforming communities and driving economic development in downtowns across the state," Governor Hochul said. "This Capital Region project will create better business and job opportunities in the area while supporting a more beautiful and vibrant space. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, New York State will continue to deliver the resources communities need to thrive, flourish and reach their full potential."
This innovative reimagining of an underutilized property will result in the creation of a vibrant public space with a new market concept that serves as a proving ground for start-up businesses and hosts diverse pop-up retail, installments by local artists and signature events. The premier location of the market will strengthen a key gateway to the Capital City at the foot of the Skyway that greets more than 20,000 people daily, anchoring Clinton Square's role as both an engaging destination and a welcoming entry to the city's unique local neighborhoods, arts scene and commercial venues.
Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, "It is exciting to see the ground broken on this innovative Clinton Market Collaborative project which holds tremendous economic promise for the residents of Albany and the surrounding Capital District. The Clinton Market Collective is a catalyst that will spur the resurgence of Clinton Square by serving as a unique place for new businesses to grow, community members to gather and visitors to be welcomed into the city. Beautiful and vibrant public spaces are integral to downtown revitalization, and I am proud that the Department of State is able to support vital projects such as this one through our Downtown Revitalization Initiative."
The creation of the Clinton Market Collective will expand Clinton Square's significant strengths and opportunities that will be leveraged through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) investment. It is a primary gateway to the Capital City, serving as the front door to Albany for tens of thousands of New Yorkers and out-of-state visitors, including thousands of people who come to work here every day and the residents who call Clinton Square home. This area has a rich historic heritage represented by diverse architectural styles and landmarks, like Albany Union Station and Quackenbush House.
Clinton Market is set to complement the adjacent Skyway, the Capital Region's first and only elevated linear park - a project that was similarly designed under management of the City of Albany's economic development organization, Capitalize Albany, with funding assistance under a Regional Councils Initiative grant award.
While construction is underway, Capitalize Albany is stepping into a vital fundraising stage to support bringing additional key site amenities to the space which are needed to activate the market concept. The Corporation has packaged several highly visible corporate sponsorship opportunities to support the project's semi-permanent vendor space in specialized shipping containers, a performance stage, outdoor seating and more.
The Clinton Market site is bordered by Clinton Avenue on the south, Broadway on the east, North Pearl Street on the west and the Leo W. O'Brien Federal building on the north.
The City of Albany was named the Capital Region winner of Round 3 of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. Albany's DRI plan is focused on revitalizing Clinton Square to create a welcoming gateway into the Capital City. This compact and walkable area, rich in history, arts and cultural assets, is where five city investment zones converge. The City envisions revitalizing Clinton Square directly while providing infill investments, corridor enhancements and targeted housing revitalization projects. With DRI investment, residents, visitors and the workforce will enjoy new links to the Hudson River.
Clinton Square is poised to be a thriving gateway district and a distinctive hub that connects and catalyzes activity in Downtown and the Warehouse District and draws this momentum into the Arbor Hill and Sheridan Hollow neighborhoods through public infrastructure enhancements, private project development and vibrant arts and entertainment investments.
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "The Clinton Market Collective project is just the latest example of how the Downtown Revitalization Initiative continues to breathe new life into city centers, through strategic investments in projects that create vibrancy, opportunity and engagement. ESD is proud to join the Department of State and other partners in supporting a public space that will further energize downtown Albany as a home for art, retail and startup innovation."
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Tuesday, April 25, 2023 - 12:06pm
Former Cigar Factory to be Transformed into Photography Museum, Gallery and Community Educational Center in Kingston
View Photos Here **
Empire State Development today announced the groundbreaking for the future home of the $2 million Center for Photography at Woodstock (CPW) at the former Van Slyke & Horton cigar factory located in the Midtown Arts District in Kingston, Ulster County. CPW has acquired the four story, 40,000 square foot commercial building and will adapt and transform it into a photography museum, gallery and community educational center, retaining 60 jobs and creating an additional seven jobs. This project will help grow the thriving arts and cultural movement in downtown Kingston, which is attracting residents and visitors to this historic city.
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Transforming a onetime cigar factory into the Center for Photography’s new home showcases how our strategic regional investments work to re-envision communities around New York State. This historic building is now taking the long view, with a focus on art and education that will draw Kingston visitors and residents both now and for years to come.”
Executive Director of the Center for Photography at Woodstock Brian Wallis said, "CPW is deeply grateful to Governor Hochul and Mayor Noble for supporting this project, and for recognizing how the arts can be a key driver of downtown revitalization and economic development. We look forward to transforming this architecturally striking, historic building into a cultural hub that helps to build a sense of community in the Midtown Arts District and assures that Kingston is a great destination to live, work and visit in the Hudson Valley."
CPW was founded in 1977 and is dedicated to supporting artists working in photography and related media and provides an artistic home for contemporary and creative photography with exhibitions, workshops, auctions, lectures, services for artists, darkroom, gallery talks, programs for children, permanent collections, library archives, fellowship and publication. During the first phase of the project, CPW will renovate the basement and bottom two floors of the building for a photography museum and educational center and the top floors will be renovated during a second phase and will be utilized for commercial activity related to the local creative economy, in line with the city’s Art and Culture Master Plan, with the goal to become a cultural hub in Kingston. To support this project, Empire State Development awarded the City of Kingston a $1.5 million Restore NY grant to rehabilitate the building and an ESD Capital Grant of $350,000 recommended by the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council.
Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Dr. Marsha Gordon, President & CEO of The Business Council of Westchester and Dr. Kristine Young, president of SUNY Orange said, “Artists are the lifeblood and legacy of this area, and we are proud to support the Center of Photography as a vital hub for our creative community. Through education and the arts, we can continue to fuel the important work they do, driving inspiration as well as growth of the regional economy.”
Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “The Hudson Valley has always been an arts enclave, with our local arts and cultural organizations prevailing as two of our greatest economic drivers and a beacon of self-discovery that can inspire us to expand our worldview. We are thrilled that the Midtown Kingston Arts District will soon include the Center for Photography at Woodstock, which will continue to raise the profile of our community as a thriving hub for arts, culture, and learning.”
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger said, "I'm thrilled to see the groundbreaking of the Center for Photography at Woodstock in Midtown Kingston, and want to thank Governor Hochul, Empire State Development CEO Hope Knight, and the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council for helping to make this artistic and cultural vision a reality. I look forward to seeing the many ways that CPW's new facility will enrich our community, support our local artists, inspire the next generation of photographers, and contribute to the economic vitality of our County and region."
City of Kingston Mayor Steve Noble said, “I would like to thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for their commitment to Kingston. CPW’s purchase and adaptive reuse of this long underutilized building fits perfectly within our economic development goals of continuing to support a vibrant arts and cultural hub here in the heart of Kingston. We look forward to the work planned for this building and seeing a new community development opportunity flourish.”
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.
*** Photos courtesy of ©Eduard Hueber/archphoto
Contact:
Kristin Devoe | [email protected] | 518-414-1087
ESD Press Office | [email protected] | 800 – 260-7313
Board Meeting
Friday, April 21, 2023 - 11:00am
The meeting is open to the public.
The public may also view and listen to the meeting via webcast clicking the link below.
Members of the public may submit comments on the Agenda items in writing to [email protected] by 4:30 PM on Thursday, April 20, 2023.
All comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the Directors prior to the meeting and posted online
Board Meeting
Thursday, April 20, 2023 - 9:30am
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 should please RSVP by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 19, 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 Wednesday, April 19, 2023.
All comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the Directors prior to the meeting and will be posted online.
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.