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Press Release

Friday, January 13, 2023 - 1:24pm
Plastic Products Manufacturer Will More Than Double Its Workforce Empire State Development (ESD) announced today that PM Plastics will undergo a $3 million expansion at its Orchard Park facility. The company was recently acquired by local investors with over 20 years’ experience in the plastics industry. This new ownership plan to grow PM Plastics from traditional plastic contract manufacturing to one of precision, allowing them to pursue technically complex components and device assemblies. The plastics manufacturer will expand and upgrade its current operation; retaining 17 jobs and creating 26 new jobs in order to grow the company’s overall sales. “Companies like PM Plastics are the backbone of Western New York’s manufacturing economy,” said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight. “Their expansion is a testament to the high-quality workforce at the PM Plastics plant, and throughout the region, whose advanced manufacturing skills are necessary to get the job done.”  PM Plastics, located at One Bank Street, is well known for making the discs used in the yard game Kan Jam, but it also manufactures plastic components and devices for hunting and fishing equipment and straps, and connectors and devices that secure equipment in EMS vehicles and fire trucks. The manufacturer will expand its capabilities by making facility improvements and purchasing new automation equipment. Machinery and equipment investment will include new injection molding equipment and multi axis robot capability, as well as automated assembly equipment required by technical applications. The urethane flooring, lighting, drywall and upgraded HVAC system will also be upgraded. The estimated completion date is early 2024. ESD is incentivizing PM Plastics to continue to grow in Erie County by providing up $300,000 in Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits in exchange for job creation commitments. Benjamin Harp, PM Plastics President said, “The incentive package put forward by ESD is critical to our success.  It supports PM Plastics making essential investments in our customers by assisting us in retaining and attracting industry best talent, enhancing the work environment in which they work, and providing them with industry leading tools and equipment. We are very appreciative of the support provided by New York State and Erie County for our expansion project.” Senator Patrick Gallivan said, ““I congratulate PM Plastics on its decision to expand operations in the Town of Orchard Park.  The retention of existing jobs and the creation of new positions will provide opportunities for residents who want to live and raise a family in our region. The company’s investment and the state’s support of this project also sends a positive message to other businesses and entrepreneurs looking to take advantage of the region’s skilled workforce and high-tech manufacturing environment.”    State Assemblyman Patrick Burke "I live close to this facility, and I can attest to the hard-working employees there. Whether in the morning, afternoon, or night, I see people laboring to produce quality products and make that company a success. I have no doubt that they will prosper under this expansion!" Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz said, “The growth of PM Plastics is good news and shows once again the vitality of Erie County’s workforce and the favorable business climate we have here. New jobs are coming, existing jobs are being retained and new products are on the horizon, all good signs for our economy.” 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: Pamm Lent | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309 Laura Magee | [email protected] | (716) 846-8239
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Press Release

Thursday, January 12, 2023 - 9:00pm
Second-Largest Global Winter Sporting Event Continues Through January 22; Tickets Are Available Here Follows More Than $550 Million in State Investment to Renovate Sports Facilities, Improve Roads and Bridges, Upgrade Sports Infrastructure in Preparation for the Games Games Will Include Several Measures to Promote Climate Action in Line with Governor's Sustainability Agenda Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the official start of the Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games, welcoming 1,443 collegiate-athletes from more than 540 universities and 46 nations gathered to celebrate the biennial multi-winter sports event. The Lake Placid 2023 FISU Games will feature competition in 12 winter sports and 85 events in venues throughout the Adirondack North Country in Lake Placid as well as Wilmington, Saranac Lake, Potsdam, Canton and North Creek. The competition schedule and tickets to the events are available here.  "With New York's North Country known as a global winter sports destination, I can't think of a better place than Lake Placid to host the 2023 FISU World University Games," Governor Hochul said. "After more than $550 million in state-supported renovations and investments in the North Country to prepare for the games, New York is ready to welcome athletes and spectators from all over the world to our state. I wish the best of luck to the athletes competing, and I thank FISU, the organizing committee and partners at every level of government for ensuring that this event is a resounding success. Let the Games begin." Thursday night's Opening Ceremony for the Lake Placid 2023 FISU Games was held at the iconic 1980 Herb Brooks Arena, site of the "Miracle on Ice" hockey game between the United States and the Soviet Union in the 1980 Winter Olympics. The ceremony included greetings from the Oneida Indian Nation and Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, elegant on-ice performances, athletes' and officials' oaths, and the lighting of a one-of-a-kind flameless cauldron.  New York State has made significant investments in the North Country totaling more than $550 million over the last six years in preparation for the World University Games and ongoing regional tourism. Investments have helped to renovate facilities owned and operated by the Olympic Regional Development Authority, such as the $104 million renovation of the Lake Placid Olympic Center, and other host facilities like the nearly $7 million overhaul of the Saranac Lake Civic Center. These investments are a testament to New York's commitment to the Games, the region, and the competitive sports infrastructure.  Read the full press release here.
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Press Release

Thursday, January 12, 2023 - 4:03pm
Today, the Journal News published commentary by Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight and Olympic Regional Development Authority CEO Michael Pratt on the impact and opportunities the Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games will bring to New York State’s North Country. Text of the commentary is available below and can be viewed online here. JOURNAL NEWS January 12, 2023 A Great Moment, A Great Opportunity: World University Games Come To Lake Placid During the 1980 Olympic Winter Games in Lake Placid, as Team USA prepared to play the Soviet Union in the now-legendary Miracle on Ice, American coach Herb Brooks said, "Great moments are born from great opportunity." Now, the eyes of the international sports world will again turn to New York’s North Country for the Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games — another great opportunity for New York State. The Lake Placid 2023 FISU Games are an 11-day multi-winter sports event that will bring nearly 1,500 athletes from more than 540 universities and 46 countries to the North Country, plus countless coaches and fans from around the world. The athletes, ages 17 to 25, will participate in 12 winter sports and 86 medal events, with competitions including skiing and snowboarding, curling, figure skating, ice hockey and speed skating. Organized by the International University Sports Federation — FISU, which is known for its world-class sports competitions for college students — the World University Games are the largest global sporting event for student-athletes. New York State has spent the past five years preparing for this moment. Gov. Kathy Hochul, while serving as Lieutenant Governor, was part of the committee that met with the FISU delegation in early 2018. As a champion for Upstate New York, Hochul helped to encourage the organizers that Lake Placid — a two-time Winter Olympic Games host — and the surrounding region were an ideal destination for the 2023 FISU Games. Lake Placid had previously hosted the 1972 FISU games — and today, New York remains the only state to host the famed event. Over the last six years, New York has invested more than $550 million in the state's Olympic Regional Development Authority facilities to help maintain the region’s standing as a global winter sport destination fitting for an Olympic-sized event. We made transformative investments to renovate the Lake Placid Olympic Center, revitalized our airports, improved our roads and bridges and grew our regional sports infrastructure to ensure that Lake Placid is well-positioned to host the games. But the impacts of these investments will also extend far beyond the games. The event will once again put Lake Placid on a global stage, drawing thousands of visitors to the region and inviting millions more to watch the games via ESPN in the United States, TSN in Canada and FISU TV. For many, it will be the first time they'll see the bold and picturesque Adirondack Mountains, vibrant downtown Lake Placid and our world-class Olympic Regional Development Authority ski areas and venues. And these games offer a chance to showcase the New York’s thriving winter tourism industry. Last winter, the state welcomed 68.5 million visitors, generating more than $16.1 billion in direct visitor spending. Special events like the games that spark additional travel generate even more spending in our restaurants, hotels and businesses, supporting jobs in a hospitality industry still rebuilding in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. State-supported ORDA venues are open year-round for events, athlete training and recreation. Once the World University Games have finished, these same facilities will host this winter season the World Cup in Ski Jumping, NCAA Alpine and Cross-Country Skiing Championships, Synchronized Figure Skating World Championships. The Bobsled Skeleton World Championships will follow in February 2025, and IBU Biathlon Cups are planned in February and March 2026. Under Hochul’s leadership, state’s investments have grown and improved the North Country’s winter sports infrastructure, and the World University Games are just the start. Thanks to the concerted efforts of FISU, the games’ organizing committee, nearly a dozen state agencies, host partners, and volunteers, we are not only bringing the world to Lake Placid; we are once again presenting Lake Placid to the world. Returning to the words of Coach Brooks, the start of the FISU games is both a great moment and a great opportunity, and we stand ready to welcome athletes and spectators from around the world to take their place in New York’s winning legacy. Hope Knight is President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development. Michael Pratt is the President and CEO of the Olympic Regional Development Authority.  Contact: ESD Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
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Press Release

Thursday, January 12, 2023 - 12:18pm
Company Will Create More than 1,600 New Green Jobs at its Slingerlands Facility Complements Governor Hochul's Bold Environmental Agenda for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Combating Climate Change Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of Plug Power's newest manufacturing facility, located at the Vista Technology Campus in Slingerlands, Albany County. The new location supports the company's efforts to significantly expand its line of GenDrive fuel cell systems, which are used to power electric motors in the electric mobility market. The company has committed to creating more than 1,600 new green jobs at this Capital Region location, complementing New York State's efforts to be a national leader in growing the green economy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and combating climate change. "New York's investment in Plug is an investment in the state's sustainable future," Governor Hochul said. "This new manufacturing facility is creating good, green jobs in the Capital Region and beyond - helping communities around the world break their dependence on fossil fuels by replacing them with cutting-edge green hydrogen technology. Earlier this week I laid out bold initiatives to drive down polluting emissions across the board, and Plug's expansion will help complement our efforts to create a greener, healthier New York for future generations." Plug's new $125 million, 350,000 square foot plant will be used for expanding production, warehousing, and servicing of the GenDrive fuel cell product line, which offers drop-in fuel cell solutions for existing electric truck fleets. Additionally, the company has committed to creating more than 1,600 new, green jobs and retaining another 701 jobs in Albany County. Empire State Development (ESD) has agreed to provide up to $45 million in performance-based Green Excelsior Jobs Tax Credits to encourage the creation and retention of these green jobs. The project is also supported by 1,310-kilowatt low-cost power allocation through the ReCharge NY program approved by the New York Power Authority (NYPA) Board of Trustees at its March 2022 meeting. CEO of Plug Andy Marsh said, "Plug is proud that its new world-class manufacturing and services facility in Albany County will contribute to New York State's goal for clean renewable energy. We are grateful to our elected officials and partners, including Governor Hochul, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, Congressman Paul Tonko, Empire State Development, NYPA and Albany County, for their ongoing support in helping us grow our presence in New York and create more than 1,600 new green jobs." Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "We are pleased to have a strong partnership with Plug across the state. Plug's continued expansion in Albany County demonstrates their strong commitment to New York State and Governor Hochul's sustainable vision for a cleaner, greener future." Read the full press release here.
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Press Release

Wednesday, January 11, 2023 - 2:52pm
Shift 2.0 Program Will Assist Manufacturing Companies with Technological Improvements and Innovation to Increase Productivity and Employment Empire State Development (ESD) today announced Buffalo Manufacturing Works, operated by EWI, will build on the success of the Shift program, with Shift 2.0, which is designed to move small to medium-sized manufacturers from technology exploration and education to actual technology implementation. The expansion will enable EWI to help companies overcome leading barriers to technology adoptions, including the implementation of rapidly re-deployable automation solutions on their factory floors. “Shift 2.0 will turn innovative strategies for improving Western New York manufacturing facilities into a high-tech reality,” said Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight. “With a goal of bringing more high-quality jobs to the region, Shift 2.0 and Buffalo Manufacturing Works will provide Buffalo-Niagara's manufacturers with the tools they need to expand and become more competitive. This initiative reflects Governor Hochul's continued commitment to providing the resources needed to fuel the area's economic growth.” Shift 2.0 builds on the established infrastructure of Buffalo Manufacturing Works, which has created a nationally-recognized hub of advanced manufacturing innovation in East Buffalo as an anchor institution at the Northland campus, together with the Northland Workforce Training Center, Buffalo Manufacturing Works is designed to position it as the cornerstone of a growing ecosystem that enables existing manufacturers to become more competitive through innovation; collaboration with and the enhancement of existing workforce development initiatives to grow the regional skill base; and serving as an asset to attract manufacturers to the region that represent the new innovation-driven economy. EWI President & CEO Henry Cialone said, “Innovative technology levels the playing field for small to medium-sized manufacturers. It allows them to produce better, faster and more efficiently. We know identifying, investing in and implementing that technology can seem like a daunting task for many manufacturers. Shift 2.0 provides education and engineering support for manufacturers who don't know how or where to start and will help identify advanced manufacturing technology improvements that can be implemented for immediate results at no-cost to the manufacturer thanks to key support from Empire State Development and the U.S. Economic Development Administration."  Buffalo Manufacturing Works, operated by EWI, established the “Shift” Program in 2017. Through workshops and a full suite of services it provided unparalleled expertise and tailored solutions to small and medium sized manufacturers (SMMs), allowing them to produce their products better, faster, and more efficiently.  The program’s purpose has been to tailor solutions to help local companies utilize innovative technology to reach their goals.  It has assisted approximately 250 manufacturers over a four-year period, through workshops and a full suite of services tailored to these companies’ needs. The new Shift 2.0 effort is being financed by a $5 million ESD grant to EWI to build on strategies established for individual companies to help implement advanced manufacturing technologies—known as “Industry 4.0” technologies—which would include, but would not be limited to, digital automation, big data, artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, and collaborative robot technology. The objective of the program is to increase Industry 4.0 technology adoption capacity of Western New York SMMs to drive capital upgrades, productivity growth in manufacturing, global competitiveness, and job retention and creation. This funding expands on the previously announced funding won through the EDA’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge, allowing Buffalo Manufacturing Works to leverage State and Federal funding to best support Western New York SMMs. An Industry 4.0 ecosystem will also be developed under the program, including peer groups, technology events, hands-on training, original equipment manufacturer interactions, and other high impact initiatives that support companies as they implement new and innovative technologies. As part of this program, EWI engineers will develop SMM-focused advanced manufacturing technology solutions, including non-fixed equipment such as a mobile collaborative robot (cobot) platform/unit, that will make it easy for SMMs to implement Industry 4.0 technologies into their production processes. EWI/Buffalo Manufacturing Works anticipates the following results by the completion of the Shift 2.0 in 2025: At least 90 SMMs engaged in the ecosystem through any combination of peer groups,  technology events, business assessments, training, or automation implementation. At least 30 companies completing implementation of an automation system. Tailoring of the core SMM mobile cobot platform/unit specifically for actual use/implementation by SMMs for machine tending and related applications. At least 80 individuals trained either through formal automation classes or as part of SMM implementation projects. Purchase of at least three cobot cells/units to facilitate the creation of a SMM cobot loan program. Manufacturers interested in participating in Shift 2.0 can find out more about the free program by visiting www.shiftmfg.com. Buffalo Manufacturing Works is now located in a 50,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility at Northland Central.  It was created through an initial $45 million state investment for operations and fit out on an interim location through ESD’s Buffalo Regional Innovation Cluster initiative, also known as the Buffalo Billion, with an additional $35 million provided to support the organization’s move and expansion to its permanent home on the Northland Campus. “EDA is proud to support the vision of the Western New York Advanced Manufacturing coalition,” said Alejandra Y. Castillo, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. “This EDA investment will help transform Buffalo, bringing economic opportunities to communities that need it most, while also positioning the region to remain competitive and on an innovative trajectory for decades to come.” Senator Tim Kennedy said "This expansion will truly allow manufacturers in Western New York to elevate production with innovative, efficient strategies. I'm thrilled to see Buffalo Manufacturing Works and EWI provide this level of support and solution-driven collaboration, and firmly believe it will continue to bolster our workforce and manufacturing industry as a whole." Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “I’d like to thank ESD for providing the capital for EWI’s capital improvements, and I’d also like to congratulate and thank EWI for being a resource for regional manufacturers to improve their operations. Increasing efficiencies and production capacities through innovation, technology, workforce development and training leads to more industry competitiveness and better bottom lines for businesses which should translate to better bottom lines for Western New York households.” City of Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown said, “This initiative is a wonderful addition to the growing landscape of innovation, manufacturing and technology that has taken root in our city. The growth of technology and jobs are two things that go hand-in-hand. As we see this initiative expand and help small-to-midsized manufacturers, we will also see more jobs added to the, already growing, base of jobs in the city of Buffalo.” 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 Governor Hochul’s 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, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov. Contact: Pamm Lent | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309 | (716) 560-8815 Laura Magee | [email protected] | (716) 846-8239 | (716) 374-4246 
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Monday, January 9, 2023 - 11:01am
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Friday, January 6, 2023 - 4:51pm
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Press Release

Thursday, January 5, 2023 - 2:23pm
Glenville Location will be Headquarters for Rocket Science Corporation, a New International Gaming Developer, Creating 30 New Jobs Will House the Future Capital District Gaming Studio, an Incubator and Game Developer Certification Facility Empire State Development (ESD) today announced plans for Rocket Science Corporation's new $1.6 million headquarters in Glenville, Schenectady County. The approximately 8,200-square-foot facility on Saratoga Road will house the international gaming developer, along with the Capital District Gaming Studio, a video game incubator and game developer certification facility. ESD is supporting these projects by awarding Rocket Science Corporation with up to $1.269 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits for the creation of 30 jobs, and a $200,000 grant for construction and renovation costs related to the development of the Capital District Gaming Studio. Funding for both projects was recommended by the Capital Regional Economic Development Council. ESD President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "We are happy to support the growth of the video game development industry in New York State. Rocket Science Corporation and the Capital District Gaming Studio will help create jobs, revitalize an underused and highly-visible property along a main thoroughfare, and spur new investments in a dynamic and growing industry." Rocket Science Corporation's new facility, the former Glenville Fire Station, will be refurbished into the new, permanent location for the game studio and serve as an incubator site to grow and support smaller studios. The Capital District Gaming Studio will feature an open space for independent game developers, and an educational space where existing programs can expand into Schenectady County. It will include a training facility where students, novices and professionals can learn game development skills and receive professional certifications. This program will be coordinated with existing programs at both SUNY Schenectady and the University at Albany, as full certification requires both testing and practical experience. In addition to its new Glenville headquarters, Rocket Science Corporation plans to operate multiple locations in New York State and the United Kingdom to better serve domestic and international customers. Company founder and CEO Brian Corrigan has a track record of bringing national game companies to the Capital Region, including PUBG from Seoul, South Korea and Major League Gaming from California. Rocket Science founder and CEO Brian Corrigan said, "New York State has played a crucial role in the growth of the gaming industry in the Capital Region.  With the addition of the new production credit, New York has the opportunity to become a truly global hub for innovation and in the space." New York State has made attracting and growing the video game industry a priority across New York State and recently announced the new State Digital Game Development Tax Credit Program to support game development projects that begin on or after January 1, 2023. The program is intended to support the digital game development industry across the state and accelerate economic development by offsetting some production costs. This is a $25 million tax credit that will award up to $5 million per year for five years. Applications can be found on the Empire State Development website here. Capital Region Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Ruth H. Mahoney President of Wealth Management, EVP, NBT Bank and Havidán Rodríguez President, University at Albany said, "Video game development is a growth industry in the Capital Region, and we are excited that these projects will expand the industry's reach into new communities. On behalf of the Council, we thank ESD for supporting these projects, which align with our strategic plan and will create new jobs in a cutting-edge field." Senator Neil Breslin said, "New York State is now becoming a leader in the burgeoning digital gaming industry.  With the announcement of Rocket Science Corporation's new $1.6 million headquarters in Glenville, we are seeing first hand its growth right here in the Capital District.  I applaud Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for their steadfast commitment to helping to see this industry thrive."  Assemblymember Mary Beth Walsh said, “Congratulations to Rocket Science Corporation for receiving an essential investment from Empire State Development as they embark on this exciting endeavor. The development of the new Rocket Science Corporation’s new headquarters, along with the Capital District Gaming Studio, will provide unique and innovative opportunities for those interested in the digital game development industry here in the 112th Assembly District and surrounding communities in the Capital Region. I look forward to learning more about this growing industry and visiting the new facility upon its completion!” Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh said, "Thank you to Rocket Science Corporation and Empire State Development for investing in the Capital Region through the creation of the Capital District Gaming Studio. I have been a long-time supporter of the digital gaming industry and understand the potential for economic growth and the benefits for our communities. More importantly, programs like the Digital Gaming Tax Credit are simple but effective tools to retain and attract residents to our state. I look forward to seeing the digital game development industry continue to grow and am hopeful for continued investment through the New Yord State Digital Game Development Tax Credit Program." Schenectady County Legislature Chairman Anthony Jasenski said, “We are excited that Rocket Science has chosen Schenectady County as the home of its headquarters. This investment and the jobs it will create will be a tremendous boost for our community and further solidify Schenectady County as a hub for technology investment.  This would not have been possible without Governor Hochul’s leadership and we thank her for her support.” About Empire State Development Empire State Development is New York's chief economic development agency. The mission of Empire State Development 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, Empire State Development strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. Empire State Development 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, visit http://www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov/ and http://www.esd.ny.gov/. Contact: Kristin Devoe | [email protected] | (518) 414-1087 ESD Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
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Press Release

Thursday, January 5, 2023 - 2:00pm
Venue Will Host Curling Competitions During Upcoming Lake Placid 2023 World University Games Revitalized Facility Enhances Regional Sports Infrastructure to Support Future Events, Complements State Investments in ORDA Facilities Games Happening January 12-22 Throughout North Country; Tickets Available Here Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of the nearly $7 million upgrade project at Saranac Lake Civic Center in Franklin County. The year-round, not-for-profit recreation and events facility underwent significant interior and exterior improvements, and the completion coincides with the upcoming Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games beginning January 12, and the Center will host the Games' men's and women's curling competitions. The project was supported by more than $5 million in Upstate Revitalization Initiative funds from Empire State Development, through the North Country Regional Economic Development Council. "As New York's North Country welcomes visitors from around the globe for the World University Games, we have a unique opportunity to showcase our world-class competitive winter sports facilities with the upgraded Saranac Lake Civic Center," Governor Hochul said. "The upgraded Civic Center will not only provide an optimal experience for curlers and fans, but it will also bolster future generations of youth sports groups, our local communities and the entire North Country region." Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "As the Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games draw closer, we are excited to celebrate the completion of the revitalized Saranac Lake Civic Center. The Center is a vital community partner, and the upgrades will ensure that it remains a premier winter sports and event venue for years to come." The nearly $7 million capital project included interior and exterior renovations, as well as energy efficiency, fire and safety improvements. Rink improvements ensured that the ice surface meets world class competition standards. Additional upgrades to kitchen, locker room facilities and spectator seating offer a better athlete and visitor experience, and better position Saranac Lake to attract future events, enhancing the regional sports competition infrastructure. The project coincides with the North Country Regional Economic Development Council's strategy of strengthening the region's global sports brand by attracting international sporting events that would stimulate private investment and job growth and catalyze the renovation of the area's sports and hospitality facilities. Read the full press release here.
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Press Release

Thursday, January 5, 2023 - 12:30pm
Program Will Invest Up To $250,000 in Early-Stage Startup Companies With Matching Funds From Private Sector Part of New York's $500 Million Federal Funding Allocation to Support Small Businesses, Particularly in Traditionally Underserved Communities Applications and Program Information Available Here Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the $30 million Pre-Seed and Seed Matching Fund Program, which will offer early-stage start-up companies $50,000 to $250,000 in growth assistance which they will match with funds from private sector co-investors. The program will support the development of businesses in high-growth industries and the creation of 21st century jobs. Funding for the program comes from the State Small Business Credit Initiative, part of the federal American Rescue Plan, to support small businesses, especially those owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals and very small businesses which traditionally do not receive sufficient access to capital or support.    "For early-stage startup companies, access to capital is critical to ensuring the vitality of those businesses and sustaining them in the long term," Governor Hochul said. "The Pre-Seed and Seed Matching Fund Program will help these businesses gain their footing and create the jobs of the future while expanding access to funding in traditionally underserved communities. I thank our federal partners for helping to secure this funding and extending a lifeline to New York's small business ecosystem."   Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Even companies that are a household name now, started out as just an idea. Through the Pre-Seed and Seed Matching Fund Program, we will target promising startups and very small businesses and ensure that these good ideas become a reality in New York State, especially in traditionally underserved populations and markets."   The Program is managed through Empire State Development's NY Ventures, the state's venture capital arm, and will be focused on technology markets including advanced manufacturing, agricultural tech, climate tech, consumer tech, data/SaaS/AI, fintech, healthcare, Life Sciences and BioTech, and medical devices. Pre-seed funds are typically the hardest venture capital funds to access for new high-growth businesses, which is why NY Ventures is offering them through this program. To qualify, applicants must have raised less than $2 million of dilutive funding to date. All applicants must be registered to do business in New York State and agree to create economic impact in New York by having headquarters and at least one C-suite employee in state. Read the full press release here.
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