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Press Release
Monday, May 22, 2023 - 12:08pm
Canisius College President Succeeds Buffalo State University President Katherine Conway-Turner As Council's Academic Co-Chair
The Western New York Regional Economic Development Council (WNYREDC) today announced that Canisius College president Steve K. Stoute, JD, has been appointed co-chair of the council. Stoute succeeds Dr. Katherine Conway-Turner, who served as co-chair since 2019 and will be retiring as president of SUNY Buffalo State University. He will lead the Regional Council in collaboration with Council Co-Chair Eric Reich, co-founder and longtime leader of Campus Labs, one of the region’s first successful startups.
“I am excited to welcome Steve Stoute as the new academic leader of the Western New York Regional Economic Development Council,” said Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight. “Under his leadership, the Council will continue to advance regional priorities that encourage economic opportunity, investment, job creation, and leverage positive private sector partnerships that will strengthen Western New York. I would also like to thank Dr. Conway-Turner for her tremendous guidance and dedication to the Council.”
“I am honored to have this opportunity to serve as co-chair of the Western New York Regional Economic Development Council,” said incoming WNYREDC Co-Chair and Canisius College President Steve Stoute. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Council to continue building on the momentum in the region and supporting further economic growth that will benefit the citizens of our region and the state of New York.”
“It has been a pleasure to serve the state of New York and especially Western New York in this capacity,” said retiring WNYREDC Co-Chair and SUNY Buffalo State University President Dr. Katherine Conway-Turner. “WNY has advanced in so many ways over the last nine years and the commitment and dedication of the state to move our region forward has been admirable. Although we faced unprecedented challenges during and following the pandemic today Western New York continues to be strong across the counties, from small to large cities, and from the urban to the rural landscapes. I personally have enjoyed seeing projects conceived, developed, and implemented that will benefit our citizens for centuries to come.”
Stoute began his tenure at Canisius College on July 1, 2022. In his brief time leading Canisius, Stoute has earned accolades from the weekly magazine City and State, which named him among the 100 most influential faith leaders in New York State, and he was named to Business First’s list of “Power 100 Business Leaders of Color” and its “Power 250” list of the most influential leaders in the region.
Under President Stoute’s leadership, Canisius became the first institution in Western New York to adopt a test-free policy for undergraduate admissions, which significantly increases the opportunity for all capable students to access a transformative Canisius education and reach their fullest potential. During his presidency, Canisius successfully petitioned the New York State Education Department Board of Regents for university designation, with the transition to Canisius University set to take place during summer 2023 alongside the unveiling of a new strategic plan and branding initiative.
President Stoute arrived at Canisius from DePaul University in Chicago, IL, where he was vice president for strategic initiatives and chief of staff. In those roles, he served as the university president’s senior advisor. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Seton Hall University, a master’s degree in exercise and sport science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a JD from the University of Pennsylvania Law School.
The Western New York region’s 2011 strategic plan, “A Strategy for Prosperity,” leverages the region’s strategic advantages in key industry sectors including advanced manufacturing, agriculture, bi-national logistics, energy, health & life sciences, higher education, professional services and tourism. The plan focuses on economic enablers that promote smart growth, prepare the workforce and foster a culture of entrepreneurship. To learn more about the WNYREDC, visit http://regionalcouncils.ny.gov/content/western-new-york.
Round XIII of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative launched on May 15. Round XIII includes core capital grant and tax-credit funding combined with a wide range of programs from 10 State agencies, including $150 million in grant funds from Empire State Development, available to projects on a continuous basis. The Councils are encouraged to support projects that advance or address strategic State priorities - including green buildings and sustainable development, child care, distressed communities, and innovative public-private partnerships; those projects, will be eligible for additional award funding.
Regional Strategic Planning Process Update
The 10 REDCs are guided by their regional strategic economic development plans, which emphasize each region’s unique assets and provide strategies to harness local resources to stimulate regional economic development and create jobs Statewide. This year, the Regional Councils will review and update their plans to re-establish each region’s priorities for growth, guide the deployment of resources, and create an updated road map to achieving its economic vision.
As part of the updated strategic plan, the Councils will be tasked with analyzing specific challenges to economic growth. Each REDC will develop a proposal that outlines creative and innovative solutions to address one specific challenge of their choice. These proposals will be reviewed by the State and up to three winning proposals will be awarded up to $10 million funding to implement the proposed solutions.
Consolidated Funding Application
The Regional Councils will score projects submitted through the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA), the State’s single application for State resources which includes programs from numerous agencies. It is designed to give project applicants expedited and streamlined access to a combined pool of grant funds and tax credits from dozens of existing programs. This year, funding is available from 10 State agencies across 30 programs. Regional Councils will review projects and provide scores that reflect how well a project aligns with a region's goals and strategies.
In Round XIII, ESD is launching two new micro grant programs: the Craft Beverage Micro Grant Program and the Not-for-Profit Capital Grant Program. Up to $5 million will be available through the Craft Beverage Micro Grant Program, designed to increase the production capacity, business infrastructure and profitability of businesses licensed to produce wine, beer, spirits, hard cider and mead in New York State. Grants ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 would support equipment purchases and facility upgrades.
Up to $5 million will be available through the Not-for-Profit Capital Grant program, which will award matching funds grants to not-for-profit organizations who provide economic and community benefits in their region to assist with facility improvements and upgrades. Grant awards would range from $25,000 to $100,000.
The 2023 REDC Guidebook and a list of additional resources available to REDC Members are accessible here. The CFA is available here; the deadline for applications is Friday, July 28 at 4 p.m. Open enrollment programs are not subject to the July 28 deadline and will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until funds are exhausted.
The REDC process continues to support and empower regional stakeholders in developing strategic plans and funding priorities that meet local economic needs. To date, through the REDC Initiative, more than $7.7 billion has been awarded to more than 9,500 job creation and community development projects consistent with each region's strategic plan.
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.
Contact:
Pamm Lent | [email protected] | 716-846-8309
Laura Magee | [email protected] | 716-846-8239
Board Meeting
Monday, May 22, 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 Sunday, May 21, 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 Sunday, May 21, 2023.
All comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the Directors prior to the meeting and will be posted online.
Public Notice
Thursday, May 18, 2023 - 5:00pm
View Public Notice
Public Hearing Instructions
Amended General Project Plan
Press Release
Thursday, May 18, 2023 - 4:46pm
Buffalo-Based Accelerator Kicks Off Search for Five Companies to Receive $1 Million Investments
Applications Can Be Submitted Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that applications are now being accepted for the ninth year of 43North, the State-funded accelerator that invests $5 million annually to attract world-class entrepreneurs to grow their startups in Buffalo. This year, 43North will select five seed-stage startups to receive an investment of $1 million each and join their immersive accelerator program.
"Buffalo has become an epicenter of technology and innovation thanks to programs like 43North's startup competition and the investments made by New York to foster economic growth and job creation," Governor Hochul said. "Since its launch, 43North has helped to revitalize this community and encourage the next generation of entrepreneurs and creators to build and participate in Buffalo's growth. I applaud 43North's continued work and our message is loud and clear to entrepreneurs around the world - New York State is home to the jobs of the future."
Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said, "The transformative economic success offered by 43North elevates our communities with innovative job creation, cutting-edge businesses, and the draw of diverse, top talent to our region. I look forward to supporting this year's applicants and I thank 43North for fueling an economic resurgence in Western New York."
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Wednesday, May 17, 2023 - 2:17pm
Initiative Will Increase Housing Supply and Unlock Transformative Projects in the Mid-Hudson Region
Application and Guidelines are Available Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the opening of the $150 million Mid-Hudson Momentum Fund grant application for mixed-use housing and infrastructure projects throughout the Mid-Hudson Region. This initiative will help communities meet growing infrastructure needs in light of the recent, region-wide population increase brought on by the pandemic. The fund implemented by Empire State Development represents a major commitment to increase the housing supply to meet growing demand and invest in key infrastructure projects in the region. Governor Hochul previously announced the Mid-Hudson Momentum Fund in February 2023.
"With its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural treasures, the Mid-Hudson region has long been a crown jewel for our state that has welcomed new residents and visitors for years," Governor Hochul said. "As the region continues to see an increase in population and visitors alike, the Mid-Hudson Momentum Fund will help communities address critical needs such as affordable and equitable housing and growing local infrastructure to make sure this region can continue to serve as a destination for families, workers, businesses and tourists."
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "It is imperative that we strategically address the growing demand for housing and infrastructure improvements throughout the Mid-Hudson Region. With informed input from our Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council, this program will help to address and accommodate the surge of interest in this amazing area and help to sustain the region's growth well into the future."
Read the full press release here.
Board Meeting
Tuesday, May 16, 2023 - 11:00am
The meeting is open to the public.
Please Note:
Due to building procedures, members of the public attending in-person should please RSVP by 2:00 p.m. on Monday, May 15, 2023.
Members of the press should please call (800) 260-7313; Members of the public should please call (212) 803-3772.
The public may also view and 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, May 15, 2023.
All comments related to the Agenda items received by the deadline will be distributed to the Directors prior to the meeting and will be posted online.
The Agenda, draft material, proposed resolutions, and public comments related to the Agenda items will be posted in advance of the meeting on www.renewnyc.com
Press Release
Tuesday, May 16, 2023 - 10:15am
New attractions include Creators at Sunset and Family FriYay!, with returning Outer Harbor concerts and specialty fitness classes
Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) and Be Our Guest, a subsidiary of Rich Entertainment Group, today announced the initial 2023 summer season lineup of events at the Buffalo Waterfront. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, Canalside and the Outer Harbor will host over 100 events and programs. See pictures of activities on Buffalo’s waterfront here.
“Canalside is celebrating its 15th anniversary with a stellar summer lineup of activities and events, “ said ECHDC Chairman Robert Gioia. “Music, family fun, exercise options, food, and friends will all be a part of the busy summer schedule. Governor Hochul is encouraging everyone to take advantage of the waterfront - which we have all worked hard to make into one of the region’s greatest success stories.”
“We’re excited to share with the community the exciting summer we have planned at the Buffalo Waterfront,” said Kevin Parkinson, vice president of finance and operations for Rich Entertainment Group. “We encourage everyone to check out some of the special events at Canalside and the Outer Harbor this summer, or simply enjoy a stroll, take in a sunset and stop for a drink at the Wilkeson Pointe Beer Garden or Clinton’s Dish. There’s something for everyone this year.”
The returning Seneca Casinos Outer Harbor Concert Series will kick off May 20 with The Gaslight Anthem to open an exciting lineup of artists coming to the Buffalo Waterfront this summer. Other announced shows include the BPO with the Strictly Hip, Alter Bridge, Dark Star Orchestra, Arkells and Jimmy Eat World & Manchester Orchestra. The full lineup will be announced in the coming weeks. This will mark the final year the series will be held at the Lakeside Event Lawn presented by the Upstate Honda Dealers, as the new Outer Harbor Events Center will be ready to host next year’s shows. Concert tickets can be purchased at www.buffalowaterfront.com/concerts.
Fitness in the Parks, sponsored by Independent Health, will also make its return to the Outer Harbor, along with several large-scale events, such as the Water Lantern Festival on July 8 and the Buffalo Irish Festival July 28-30. Food and drinks will be offered at the Wilkeson Pointe Beer Garden, the Nosh and Nibble Food Truck and the Lakeside Bike Park Café, along with bike and water sport rentals.
“As the official health and wellness partner of Outer Harbor Buffalo, we are proud to work with the Buffalo Waterfront to connect the community with free or affordable healthy activities along our beautiful waterfront,” said Kathy Glieco, vice president of marketing, Independent Health. “The Outer Harbor is the crown jewel of our waterfront and a wonderful way for individuals and families to experience its many picturesque settings and wellness activities, from kayak rentals and Fitness in the Parks classes to our Wellness Trail and Lakeside Bike Park.”
New events at Canalside include Family FriYay! and Creators at Sunset. Family FriYay! will feature Free Play Friday with Explore & More, a kids activity zone sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY, interactive boat building with the Buffalo Maritime Center at the Longshed and ice cream specials at Clinton’s Dish. Family FriYay! will run weekly from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays from June 23 through August 25.
Creators at Sunset will feature local artists and vendors, live music and entertainment, food trucks and of course, sunset views at Canalside. Sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY and Upstate Honda Dealers, the event will be held on one Friday per month (May 26, June 9, July 7 and August 18).
In addition to the returning Fitness at Canalside series, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY will also sponsor specialty fitness classes, including puppy yoga, goat yoga, biking on the boardwalk, fitness cruises and salsa classes.
“As we kick off our 12th season of Fitness at Canalside, we’re pleased to offer a full schedule of engaging and inclusive offerings that showcase Buffalo’s beautiful waterfront while encouraging our entire community to get healthy this summer,” said Michael Ball, vice president, community affairs, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY.
Additional new events include:
A comedy series on the Great Lawn held June 8, July 13, July 27 and August 10 from 7 to 8 p.m. Buffalo Waterfront will partner with Buffalo Comedy Collective on this free programming series, where two comedy teams will compete as the audience judges.
“Yappy Hour” at Clinton’s Dish and the Wilkeson Pointe Beer Garden on Thursdays from June 1 through August 31. Enjoy $1 off hot dogs and a free treat for your pup with a drink purchase.
The Canalside Food Truck Lunch Series from noon to 3 p.m. every Wednesday. Starting May 17, one-to-two food trucks will be parked each week for lunch in the sun.
Seasonal vendors at Canalside and the Outer Harbor, including the Buffalo Boat Tour, BFLO Harbor Kayak, Water Bikes of Buffalo, Canalside Caricatures, and Longboards Paddle Co. will also reopen this Memorial Day weekend. New this year, Buffalo Bike Tours will be open at the Commercial Slip at Canalside and Explore Buffalo will provide historical walking tours.
There’s still plenty to do along the water this weekend as well, prior to the official kick-off.
Clinton’s Dish
Open Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The Buffalo Heritage Carousel, which offers rides for just $1 each
Open Saturday & Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Longshed, which is being used by the Buffalo Maritime Center to construct a replica of an 1825 Erie Canal boat. This will be the last summer to visit this attraction before the boat is completed and launched next spring
Open Saturday & Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Buffalo Boat Tours, which offers a host of tours available for every occasion at various times throughout the day, including:
Cocktail Cruises
Silo City Tour
Buffalo River History Tour
Sunday Brunch Cruise
For the latest updates to the summer schedule, visit https://buffalowaterfront.com.
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 nonvoting, ex-officio director positions are held by the Erie County Executive and the City of Buffalo Mayor. For more information on ECHDC, visit: www.eriecanalharbor.com.
Buffalo Waterfront
Buffalo’s Waterfront is a growing regional destination and entertainment district encompassing Canalside and Outer Harbor. The Buffalo Waterfront hosts large events and daily activities of all types and strives to provide public access to the land and waterways on the Lake Erie shoreline. Operated by the Buffalo Waterfront Management Group, part of Rich Entertainment Group, a subsidiary of Rich Products, the Buffalo Waterfront is the go-to place for locals and out-of-towners of all ages to learn, play and relax. For more information, visit www.buffalowaterfront.com.
Contact:
Pamm Lent (Governor’s Office) | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309 | (800) 260-7313
Shannon Holfoth (Be Our Guest) | [email protected] | 716-913-5071
Laura Magee (ESD/ECHDC) | [email protected] | (716) 846-8239 | (800) 260-7313
Press Release
Monday, May 15, 2023 - 2:00pm
2023 Tournament Marks Fourth PGA Championship in New York's Finger Lakes Region
World-Renowned Sporting Event Expected to Draw More Than 225,000 Spectators, Bring Major Economic Boost to the Finger Lakes Region
New York State Tasting Yard Presented by Taste NY and I LOVE NY Will Showcase Locally Made Products and Tourism Offerings All Week
Governor Kathy Hochul today welcomed golfers and visitors to the 2023 PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, with the tournament starting Thursday, May 18th. The week-long event is expected to generate an estimated economic impact of $190 million in direct, indirect and induced spending, with more than 225,000 spectators expected to attend. This will bring a dramatic economic ripple effect, as visitors will eat and stay in the region, support local businesses and explore all that the Finger Lakes has to offer. The event marks the fourth time that Oak Hill has played host to the PGA Championship; the tournament was last held there in 2013.
"The PGA Championship is one of our nation's premier sporting events, celebrating the most talented, most competitive golfers in the world, and we are thrilled to continue its long history in New York State with this year's tournament," Governor Hochul said. “With world-renowned athletes and more than 225,000 spectators expected to attend, this event will not only put Rochester on a global stage - it will also provide an economic boost to the entire Finger Lakes region. I am proud to welcome golf enthusiasts from around the world to experience New York's breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant local businesses and encourage them to stop by our Taste NY and I LOVE NY kiosks to learn more about everything that our state has to offer."
Additionally, New York State's partnership with PGA of America will continue in 2025 with the 45th Ryder Cup set to be held at Bethpage State Park in Farmingdale.
PGA of America Championship Director Bryan Karns said, "We are thrilled to continue the incredible legacy of PGA of America Championships contested in New York. We are connected through the past in 1916 with the founding of the PGA in New York City, the present as we host our 13th PGA Championship in the Empire State this week, and the future with Long Island hosting the largest event in all of golf, the Ryder Cup. New York State has set the standard for hosting Major Championship golf and this week will be no different as we showcase Western N.Y. to the entire world."
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "New York State is incredibly proud to welcome the PGA, its members, and the many thousands of visitors to this weeklong event at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester. By supporting world-renowned events like this, we are provided with the great opportunity to showcase the beautiful Finger Lakes region to a global audience, sharing the many businesses, attractions, and craft food and beverage offerings that make the region unique."
Read the full press release here.