New York representatives announce approval of regional tech hub designation

Creates ‘new economic engine for the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse corridor, and positions our region to be a global leader in semiconductor innovation’

On Monday, Congress members Joe Morelle, Brian Higgins, Nick Langworthy, Marc Molinaro, Claudia Tenney and Brandon Williams announced approval of the New York Semiconductor Manufacturing and Research Technology Innovation Corridor (NY SMART I-Corridor) application for the Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (Tech Hubs) program.

A press release stated, “The SMART I-Corridor will leverage existing and new investments in semiconductor and sensing technology along with regional expertise in advanced manufacturing.

“The bipartisan group of New York members built on the strengths of their unique communities in a historic effort to bring transformative federal investments to reinvigorate regional economic growth for years to come. Following enormous community effort and collaboration from their universities, field experts, and local and federal advocates, the NY SMART I-Corridor coalition has delivered a promising future for the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region.”

Morelle said, “This historic federal commitment will power our local innovation economy, create jobs, and fortify our position as a leader in the global tech landscape. I am incredibly grateful for the bipartisan support of my colleagues from the New York delegation – together we are leveraging the unique economic strengths of our regions to pioneer the industries of tomorrow and secure our nation's technological future.”

Higgins said, “Western New York is uniquely positioned to lead the nation in semiconductor production, and this award demonstrates confidence that the workforce, research and manufacturing infrastructure in place is prepared to deliver on this opportunity. There is strength in collaboration. We are proud to support this project designed to bolster national security and deliver regional and national economic opportunities.”

Langworthy said, “Western New York and the Southern Tier have a rich legacy of manufacturing innovation, and the approval of our Tech Hub application reflects our commitment to advancing technology, creating high-paying jobs, and securing our nation's economic and technological future. Our region's proximity to the world-renowned Micron facility in upstate New York makes the NY SMART I-Corridor a natural choice for this transformative investment. Leveraging the expertise and resources of Micron, alongside our growing skilled workforce, reinforces our future as a premier destination for semiconductor research and production.”

Molinaro said, "This is a significant investment into the future of upstate New York. I am proud to be a part of the initiative that will transform our region into a prominent hub for innovation, job growth and economic prosperity. Working alongside my fellow New York members of Congress, we aim to continue developing advancements in technology and creating endless opportunities for upstate."

Tenney said, "By officially designating the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse corridor as a Regional Technology and Innovation Hub, we are set to witness a substantial increase in regional job opportunities, all the while fortifying the nation’s vital supply chains. Home of industrial revolution, with these smart federal and private investments our communities will once again reclaim their heritage as the forefront of innovation, driving the entire country’s economic and technological progress. I deeply appreciate the bipartisan support from my colleagues, and I am eager to see the opportunities, jobs and innovative advancements that this Tech Hub designation will bring to our community, our nation and the world!"

Williams said, “With a Tech Hub designation, we will welcome in a new era for New York – embracing a call to action and introducing transformational change, with our state becoming the semiconductor epicenter of the world. Designating a Tech Hub for New York focused on the advancement of technologies, including the production of semiconductors domestically, will not only create jobs locally, but will promote national security.”

The press release stated, “Enacted as part of the CHIPS and Science Act, and modeled after Morelle’s Innovation Centers Acceleration Act first introduced in 2020, the Tech Hub program will invest in U.S. regions focused on key technologies, including semiconductor research and advanced manufacturing, to strengthen our domestic supply chain and reinvigorate regional economies.

“The Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region is uniquely poised to excel in semiconductor production due to a highly trained workforce, world-class universities, and extensive manufacturing infrastructure. MIT economists Jonathan Gruber and Simon Johnson identified 100 cities as prime candidates for economic growth through targeted federal investment. On that list, Rochester is ranked No. 1, Syracuse No. 3, and Buffalo No. 15.”

For detailed information on the Tech Hubs Program Economic Development Initiative, click here.