More than $81 million has been awarded to support 97 priority projects across New York State through the eleventh round of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative.
This year, $150 million in grant funds from Empire State Development was made available on a continuous and competitive basis to support the immediate needs of applicants. Additionally, projects within each region are eligible for a share of $75 million in Excelsior Jobs Program Tax Credits to help attract and grow business in their region.
Here in Western New York, a $2 million Empire State Development grant will be going to Buffalo Studios, which is creating an $80 million Hollywood-quality movie studio in South Buffalo. The facilities will support the film, television and gaming industries, allowing for production of feature films and television series alongside post-production, animation, gaming and industry tech development.
This includes plans for a partnership with the University at Buffalo to provide training opportunities to university students and Western New York residents. The project will also include the construction of an on-site childcare facility and is expected to create 22 new jobs.
