Bottom-Up Economic and Community Development Strategy
Since taking office, Governor Cuomo has replaced the State's top-down, "one-size fits all" approach to economic development with one that is regionally-based and performance-driven.
Communities are empowered, determining their own destiny through comprehensive strategic plans developed by the Regional Economic Development Councils, which are guiding the greatest investment in Upstate's history and actively supporting tens of thousands of jobs across the state.
This new approach has been extended to our urban centers. Governor Cuomo has made it a priority to end the cycle of decline in our Upstate cities and breathe new life into our downtowns. And it's working - with the transformation of vacant historic buildings into active mixed-use developments with apartments, businesses and restaurants, and innovative companies attracting young people to Upstate's urban centers.
We will continue stimulating growth across the state’s regional economies – from the ground up –while the Empire State remains the globe’s beacon of economic opportunity.
Watch a video series on the economic successes of each region in the state.
Spurring economic growth from the ground up and creating jobs across New York
Regional Economic Development Councils
Revitalizing Communities Across New York State
Upstate Revitalization Initiative
Modeled after the successful Buffalo Billion Initiative, the URI is an opportunity for Upstate communities to address economic challenges of their regions and work together to bring jobs back.
Downtown Revitalization Initiative
Now in its fourth year, this initiative is transforming neighborhoods into vibrant communities where the next generation will want to live, work & raise families.
Buffalo Billion
Since the historic $1B program began, the Queen City has again become a global destination to live and work - prompting the launch of Phase II to extend the progress to the neighborhood level.
$20 Billion Plan to Create Affordable Housing
Revitalizing Our Communities Begins with Affordable & Sustainable Housing
Establishing world-class destination gaming resorts to attract tourists and bring jobs to Upstate New York
Signed in 2013 the Upstate NY Gaming Economic Development Act established four destination gaming resorts in Upstate New York to boost tourism and economic development in communities across the region.
Located in the Capital Region, Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady opened in February 2017.
Located in the Catskills, the Montreign Resort Casino, a Resorts World property is expected to open in March 2018.
Located in the Southern Tier, Tioga Downs transitioned from a VLT facility to a full casino and opened in December 2016.
Located in the Finger Lakes, the del Lago Resort & Casino opened in February 2017.